Barcelona could attempt to sign Real Madrid midfield target after de Jong injury

Barcelona could attempt to sign Real Madrid midfield target after de Jong injury Barcelona are heading into the new season with a big injury casualty in the form of Frenkie de Jong. The Dutch international is out for the medium-term due to an injury and his absence has created a void in the Barcelona midfield. That is why the club are looking into the market for options, having already been linked with a move for Azzedine Ounahi as a cost-effective option. Barcelona also monitoring Rodri Rodri has been linked with a return to Spain. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images) Ounahi is not the only midfielder Barcelona are looking at, as the club are also monitoring the situation of Rodri, reports Cadena SER . According to journalist Nil Sola, de Jong’s injury has reignited the debate over whether Barcelona need to reinforce their midfield, and while it is not the sporting director’s absolute priority this window, Rodri’s name very much remains on the table. Barcelona are said to be keeping a close eye on developments and could pursue a deal if the player himself gives the green light. The Catalans regard Rodri as one of the very best in his position and are aware he is fond of the club’s project, with the main obstacle being how to fit his salary within Financial Fair Play regulations. The report suggests Barcelona could afford a transfer fee of around €50 million, though much would depend on the feasibility of the wider operation. Real Madrid in pole position Rodri was the Golden Ball winner of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images) The problem for Barcelona is that they are far from favourites to land the Manchester City man. As things stand, Real Madrid hold a clear advantage in the race, having already made a verbal offer of around €50 million to City for the World Cup’s standout performer. That leaves Barcelona in a waiting game, forced to remain patient in the hope that an opportunity arises for them to enter the competition properly. It is worth noting that even with de Jong’s long-term injury, Barcelona cannot release the Dutchman from his contract, meaning any move for Rodri would hinge entirely on available funds. For now, then, the Catalans can only monitor the situation from a distance. Barcelona believe their midfield is largely covered, but the uncertainty surrounding de Jong has opened up a new scenario, and Rodri remains a key target.