Manchester City Rejects Barcelona's Second Bid for Rodri Amid Enzo Fernandez Deadline

Manchester City has turned down a second offer from Barcelona for midfielder Rodri, as uncertainty surrounds the futures of both Rodri and Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez. The latest bid from Barcelona was approximately £55 million plus add-ons, following an initial offer of around £43 million, but City is seeking a fixed fee of £65 million for the Spain captain.

Rodri is eager for the transfer to progress within the next 24 hours to avoid returning to City for a medical assessment after a minor operation. City acknowledges Rodri's wish to return to Spain and is open to facilitating the move, provided their valuation is met. With less than a year remaining on his contract, a departure seems likely.

The situation is complicated by Chelsea's deadline of 5pm UK time on Friday for any offers for Enzo Fernandez, who is seen as Rodri's replacement. This urgency may pressure City to accept a lower fee for Rodri to secure Fernandez. Additionally, City could benefit financially from the potential sale of Tijjani Reijnders, who is a target for Al Qadsiah in the Saudi Pro League.