FC Barcelona could be about to pull off one of the most ambitious summer transfer windows in recent years. Two high-profile deals are on the verge of being concluded simultaneously: the arrival of Rodri from Manchester City, and the return of João Cancelo, who is a free agent following his departure from Al-Hilal.
Rodri: a deal reached after lengthy negotiations
The matter has undergone a spectacular turnaround. After several offers were rejected by Manchester City, the two clubs are said to have finally found common ground at around 76.5 million euros, including 60 million fixed plus add-ons. The Spanish international is expected to sign a four-year contract with the Catalan club, and only the final administrative formalities now stand between the parties and an official announcement.
This signing is far from insignificant. Rodri, captain of the Spanish national team and 2024 Ballon d'Or winner, is expected to bring the Barcelona midfield a level of composure and top-level experience capable of transforming Hansi Flick's side. His arrival directly addresses the need for reinforcement in the engine room.
Cancelo: a return as a free agent
The other deal is also progressing. João Cancelo, having left Al-Hilal, is said to be heading for a return to Barcelona as a free agent, with no transfer fee involved, according to the latest available information. A financial windfall for a club that remains mindful of its financial balance.
The Portuguese full-back knows the Barcelona setup well and represents an immediately ready-to-play reinforcement, much like Rodri. Barça would thus complete a double move with complementary profiles: one signed for a significant fee, the other brought in at no cost.
A strong message sent to Europe
If both arrivals are confirmed, Barcelona would send a clear signal to their rivals: the Catalan club intends to once again become a major title contender from this season onwards. At this stage, the agreement with City for Rodri is described as an agreement in principle, while Cancelo's arrival has yet to be officially formalised.
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