Barcelona insist Rodri’s imminent signing will not hinder La Masia jewel’s development

Barcelona insist Rodri’s imminent signing will not hinder La Masia jewel’s development FC Barcelona have moved swiftly in the market to hijack Real Madrid’s move for Manchester City midfielder Rodri. The Blaugrana are now the frontrunners to sign the 30-year-old superstar, with an agreement over a four-year contract on a €30 million gross annual salary also secured. Official talks between Barcelona and Manchester City are now underway to finalise a transfer fee. As already established , Barça manager Hansi Flick himself pushed hard for the signing of the World Cup winner even though the midfield department at the club is well-stocked. No obstacle for Marc Bernal Now, according to SPORT , Barcelona insist that Rodri’s arrival would not hinder the development of Marc Bernal. Bernal will remain a key player. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) The sporting department remains convinced that the La Masia graduate will become a cornerstone of Barcelona’s future and believe both midfielders can coexist comfortably across a demanding schedule packed with domestic and European fixtures. Bernal was one of the breakout stars of Flick’s first pre-season at Barcelona and was fast-tracked into the senior setup, only to have his breakthrough cut short by a horrific ACL injury. Having spent over a year out, the youngster was eased back into action with caution last season. After having taken his time, the academy product exploded in the second half of the campaign, scoring important goals and putting in fine displays. Rodri’s arrival changes nothing Arrival imminent. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) So, naturally, there are bound to be concerns that Rodri’s arrival might change things for Bernal, given that the Manchester City ace is expected to start games regularly alongside Pedri. However, Barça maintain that it will not be the case and that their youngster will continue to play a pivotal role in the project that Flick is building. Furthermore, the Catalans insist that Frenkie de Jong’s lengthy injury absence only strengthens the case for signing another elite midfielder capable of making an immediate impact, which is why Rodri is being signed. His arrival, in no way, is expected to hamper Bernal’s progress, who the La Liga champions will have a huge role to play for the club in the future.