Barcelona are set to approach Man City for midfielder Rodri and are hopeful they can beat their LaLiga rivals to the signing of the Spain captain, Sky Sports News understands.
The Spain World Cup winner is wanted by both Spanish giants and has entered the final year of his contract at City.
As reported by Sky Sports News, Real have been in talks with City since last week and indicated they would be prepared to pay £50m.
Barcelona are believed to have received encouragement they stand a good chance of signing the midfielder should Rodri move in this window. Their interest has stepped up in the past 24 hours.
However, City do not want to sell their key player. They are hoping he will agree to a new long-term contract at the Etihad and lead the team into a new era under Enzo Maresca.
Rodri had successful back surgery after the World Cup and is currently recovering. He is expected to miss the Community Shield game against Arsenal and the opening Premier League fixture of the season as a result.
Upon his re-election as Real Madrid president, Florentino Perez was criticised because the club had too few players representing Spain at this summer’s World Cup.
They signed Marc Cucurella from Chelsea as the tournament got under way, and everyone at the club are believed to be on board with a move for Rodri next. Madrid are considering their next move which includes whether or not to raise the amount they are willing to pay.