Real Madrid Reconsiders Rodri Signing, Barcelona Acquires Adeyemi

Barcelona continues to strengthen its squad ahead of the new season, officially announcing the signing of German national team forward Karim Adeyemi from Borussia Dortmund. The 24-year-old moves to Catalonia for an initial €22 million, with the fee potentially rising by another €7 million through bonuses. Dortmund will also receive a sell-on clause.

Adeyemi spent four seasons at Borussia Dortmund, scoring 36 goals in 146 appearances. He becomes Barcelona's second summer signing after English winger Anthony Gordon joined from Newcastle United for €70 million.

Adeyemi credited head coach Hansi Flick as decisive in the transfer. Flick, who gave him his Germany debut, told him, "I don't just want you, I need you." The forward also expressed confidence in forming a partnership with Lamine Yamal, noting Yamal's ability to create chances for teammates, which suits Adeyemi's runs behind defenses. Despite the additions of Adeyemi and Gordon, ESPN reports Barcelona is still actively searching for a classic center forward.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid's stance on Rodri has shifted. Weeks ago, club president Florentino Pérez and head coach José Mourinho were reportedly uninterested in the Manchester City midfielder, mainly due to concerns over his knee injury. However, after Rodri captained Spain to the World Cup title and was named tournament MVP, influential Real Madrid officials now support his signing. Talks with Manchester City have not yet begun.

To accommodate another high-profile addition, Real Madrid may need to free up squad space, with Eduardo Camavinga among the top candidates to leave, although the French midfielder wishes to stay. Rodri is also scheduled for minor back surgery this summer, but it is not expected to sideline him for long.