New Delhi, Aug. 7 -- Spain's FIFA World Cup-winning captain Rodri (Rodrigo Hernandez Cascante) is reportedly set to ditch Real Madrid in favour of Barcelona. The midfielder has entered the final year of his contract at Premier League giants Manchester City, prompting speculation over whether he will remain at the Etihad Stadium beyond the 2026-27 season.

"Today Barcelona is closer to being able to consider this transfer than yesterday. We have now secured the player's agreement to open negotiations with Manchester City," an FC Barcelona source told AFP.

The source, however, added that there is no guarantee that Rodri will sign for the defending LaLiga champions yet. This comes at a time when Real Madrid have reportedly shown interest in...