Barcelona, apparently not content with just existing as a financial soap opera, have decided to spice things up by trying to hijack Real Madrid's move for Manchester City's Rodri. It's the football equivalent of stealing someone's date at a wedding, but with more millions involved.

City, who haven't given up hope that Spain's World Cup-winning captain will sign a new contract despite entering the final year of his deal, are reportedly open to letting him go for around £60m. That's a bargain for a player who won the Golden Ball for being the World Cup's best, but apparently Real Madrid's weeks of talks have stalled, leaving the door open for Barcelona.

Rodri, 30, reportedly had a chat with Barcelona manager Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco on Wednesday, expressing his keenness to return to Spain. Barcelona, who will be without Frenkie de Jong for several months after a knee injury, are now expected to contact City to discuss the fee structure. Because nothing says 'financial stability' like negotiating a £60m transfer while your midfield is in the physio's room.

Real Madrid, who have already agreed a club-record £115m for RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande, are also busy trying to keep Vinícius Júnior happy with a lucrative contract extension to fend off Arsenal's interest. They might need to offload some players first, with Aurélien Tchouaméni and Eduardo Camavinga potentially heading out the door. Manchester United, as always, are sniffing around.

Rodri, meanwhile, is recovering from minor back surgery and will miss most of City's pre-season. City have signed Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest for £116m and are still negotiating with Lille for 18-year-old Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi. Because why not spend money like it's going out of style?

Over at Barcelona, they've been having a frustrating summer trying to persuade Atlético Madrid to sell Julián Alvarez. After Robert Lewandowski's departure, Alvarez has been their top target, but Atlético insist the Argentina striker is not for sale at any price. Deco was in the Spanish capital meeting with Alvarez's representatives on Wednesday, and all eyes will be on whether the 26-year-old former City forward shows up for training on Monday or throws a transfer tantrum. Arsenal also have a lingering interest, because everyone loves a good tug-of-war.

And in a side note that screams 'we're all just making this up as we go along', Ferran Torres - who scored the winning goal for Spain in the World Cup final against Argentina - has entered the final year of his contract at Barcelona. He's waiting for them to start talks, saying, 'Show me they want me, come to negotiate.' So, Barcelona, if you're listening: the ball is in your court, and by ball, we mean a contract offer.