THE FUSE

Players on the move: Join Razeen Gutta for a weekly roundup of all the biggest deals taking place around South Africa and Europe.

Manchester City midfielder Rodri is set to return to Spain after agreeing a move to Barcelona, with the Catalan giants securing one of the biggest deals of the summer.

Europe

The 30-year-old is set to join Barcelona for a fee of around £65 million (± R1.5 billion) after City accepted the Spanish club’s offer.

Rodri joined City from Atletico Madrid in 2019 and went on to make 298 appearances for the club, winning four Premier League titles and the Champions League.

He also became the first City player to win the Ballon d’Or following his outstanding 2023/24 campaign.

With one of the best midfielders in the world now on his way out, City have wasted little time in looking for reinforcements.

Lille teenager Ayyoub Bouaddi is closing in on a move to Manchester, with reports suggesting City are prepared to pay around £85 million (± R2 billion) for the 18-year-old.

According to ESPN, City are hoping to complete a deal for the Morocco international this week, while Lille coach Davide Ancelotti has already confirmed talks between the clubs.

Another midfielder on City’s radar is Chelsea star Enzo Fernandez.

According to Sky Sports, City remain interested in the Argentine, with the midfielder still a target during the final weeks of the transfer window. Chelsea are understood to value him at around £120 million (± R2.8 billion).

Staying in the Premier League, Manchester United continue to look for defensive reinforcements.

According to reports, RB Leipzig left-back David Raum is open to a move to Old Trafford, with the German emerging as one of the alternatives being considered by the Red Devils.

In Germany, Harry Kane’s future has once again become a talking point, with Saudi giants Al-Hilal reportedly making a move for the England captain.

According to TalkSport, Kane’s representatives have held talks with the Saudi side, who are keen to make the Bayern Munich striker their next marquee signing.

The 33-year-old is entering the final year of his current deal, but Bayern are also in negotiations with him over a contract extension. Despite the interest from Al-Hilal, many expect the England captain to remain in Munich.

South Africa

Closer to home, Kaizer Chiefs have confirmed loan moves for five players as Fernando Da Cruz continues to shape his squad.

Samkelo Zwane and goalkeeper Bontle Molefe are heading to Hope FC, while Sifiso Timba will join Gomora United. Two other academy players, Olebogeng Kgosana and Wandile Mkhawana, will also spend the season away from Naturena.

The moves will give the players an opportunity to gain regular senior football, with Chiefs confirming that the loans are intended to help the youngsters gain valuable experience.

Meanwhile, Thembinkosi Lorch’s name has once again resurfaced in connection with Kaizer Chiefs.

The former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns star has been linked with a return to the PSL in recent weeks.

According to Soccer Laduma, however, there is currently little indication that a move to Amakhosi is close, with the 33-year-old expected to return to Libya as Al Ittihad Tripoli prepare for the new season.

Pictured above: Rodri

Source: @ohmyfootballofficial