Barcelona has recently caused significant surprise behind the scenes at their fierce rivals, Real Madrid. This development comes amidst widespread confirmation that the Catalan club has firmly entered the competition to sign Rodri from Manchester City.

In fact, the reigning Spanish champions are now believed to be ahead of their rivals in the pursuit of the 30-year-old midfielder's signature.

Midfielder Rodri is widely expected to move before the end of the summer. With his contract in Manchester set to expire in 12 months, the Ballon d'Or winner's time in England appears to be drawing to a close.

Previously, Real Madrid had been considered the strong favorites to secure Rodri, after Florentino Pérez had authorized his board to proceed with the transfer.

Therefore, all associated with Los Blancos will undoubtedly be concerned by the latest media reports from Thursday.

According to information from market insider Fabrizio Romano, among other sources:

"Rodri has opened the door to Barcelona today, indicating his willingness to discuss contract terms. This is the first time Rodri has shown openness to Barça."

It is now up to Real Madrid to reassert their position, either by submitting an improved contract offer or a bid to Manchester City.

English Translation

Barcelona Ready to Deal Real Madrid a Massive Transfer Blow

Barcelona have this week caused quite a stir behind the scenes at none other than arch rivals Real Madrid. This comes amid widespread confirmation that the Blaugrana have firmly entered the bidding to sign Rodri from Manchester City.

In fact, the reigning Spanish champions are now considered to be ahead of their Clásico opponents in the race for the signature of the 30-year-old.

Midfielder Rodri is of course widely expected to be on the move before the summer is out. Ahead of the expiration of his contract terms in Manchester in 12 months’ time, the Ballon d’Or winner’s time in England appears to be approaching an imminent end.

To this point, the aforementioned Real Madrid had been considered the widespread favourites to land Rodri, after Florentino Pérez gave the green light for his board of directors to move forward with the deal.

Safe to say, then, that all associated with Los Blancos will no doubt be alarmed by the latest word stemming from the media on Thursday.

As per a report from market insider Fabrizio Romano, amongst others:

‘Rodri has opened the doors to Barcelona today, informing about his willingness to negotiate contract terms. Rodri opens to Barça for the very first time.’

It is now up to Real Madrid to force their way back into the picture, be it through an improved contract offer or bid to Manchester City.