His move is accelerating.

According to a SPORT report relayed by Barça Universal, the 2024 Ballon d'Or winner wants the transfer wrapped up before August 12 so he can travel from his holiday in Ibiza straight to Catalonia and begin pre-season under Hansi Flick.

Why the Rodri Barcelona deal is accelerating

Barcelona are said to have already lodged an official opening bid, which Manchester City rejected as too low: Fabrizio Romano reported an offer of around €45 million plus add-ons, with the Premier League champions valuing their man closer to €70 million.

Undeterred, and having agreed personal terms with the player earlier in the week, the Blaugrana are reportedly preparing an improved proposal to close the gap.

Rodri, for his part, is understood to have made his desire to return to Spain clear to City.

Some outlets have gone further, citing claims that a €50 million agreement has been struck, although confirmation is still awaited.

Manchester City “will help facilitate his exit and will not pose any hurdles,” the report stated. “All they ask for is a fair price.”

The coming days could prove decisive. Should Barcelona firm up their offer, Rodri may yet get his wish — a swift return to Spain and a first session under Flick alongside the World Cup-winning international team-mates due back in Catalonia next week.