Earlier in the season, FC Barcelona were widely regarded as the favourite to sign Guido Rodriguez.
The Real Betis midfielder, who is all set to become a free agent at the end of the month, was poised to become the club’s first major signing of the summer.
However, a lot has changed at Barcelona since. For one, the club roped in Hansi Flick as the new coach. Moreover, their agreement with Guido Rodriguez expired on May 31, meaning Barça must now secure a new deal with the Argentine.
Bayer Leverkusen enter the race
Barcelona hitting a snag in the race to sign Guido Rodriguez has put other clubs on red alert, as they look to exploit the market opportunity.
According to TYC Sports (h/t Diario SPORT), Bayer Leverkusen have enquired about the possibility of signing Rodriguez on a free transfer this summer.
As mentioned earlier, Barcelona’s agreement with Rodriguez expired on May 31, meaning the player is free to negotiate with other clubs.
Atletico Madrid were among the clubs interested in the services of the midfielder, but it appears Bayer Leverkusen, too, have joined the race.
Barcelona all set to miss out?
The idea of joining Leverkusen is a tempting one for Guido Rodriguez, as Die Werkself are the defending champions of Germany and are managed by Xabi Alonso.
Barcelona, in contrast, are currently in economic turmoil and cannot make a move for the midfielder unless La Liga issues a final confirmation regarding their salary limit for the summer ahead.
This does not bode well for the Catalans, as Rodriguez ideally wants to close his future before the start of Copa America. The coming few weeks, therefore, could be crucial as the Argentine takes the next step in his career.
