It took a late hijack of Real Madrid’s efforts, three bids and a package worth up to $87.8 million (€76.5 million) to bring Rodri to Barcelona this summer, and the defending Spanish champions are reveling in locking down the 2026 World Cup Golden Ball winner.
The transfer, which Rodri called a “dream” upon landing in Catalonia, has been announced with a contract to 2030. It comes with its fair share of risks for Barcelona, though. The financially-burdened club paid more than it wanted for the midfielder, who is 30 years old and highly injury prone.
