Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has suggested that player movement remains possible as rumors circulate regarding a potential transfer for midfielder Rodri. Reports indicate that Barcelona has seen an initial £38.5 million bid for the 30-year-old rejected by the Premier League club. With only one year left on his current contract, speculation about a move back to Spain has intensified, particularly after City reportedly valued the recent World Cup player of the tournament at approximately £68 million.
Rodri returned to training on Friday following back surgery after his successful campaign in North America. During a press conference ahead of the Community Shield match against Arsenal, Maresca acknowledged that the transfer window remains active. While he refrained from discussing specific targets, he noted that Manchester City expects further roster adjustments before the summer window closes, depending on potential departures.
Should Barcelona return with an improved offer, Manchester City may shift their attention toward Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez, though Maresca indicated no immediate deal was imminent for that player. Meanwhile, the club continues to balance its squad, with Tijjani Reijnders nearing a move to Saudi side Al Qadsiah for roughly £51 million. Maresca emphasized that it is natural for players to seek increased playing time elsewhere when circumstances align.
Looking ahead to the upcoming campaign, Maresca expressed respect for Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal squad, which finished seven points clear of City last term. The manager remains committed to closing the competitive gap between the two sides as they prepare for the Community Shield.
