Guido Rodriguez has reportedly put a halt to contract talks with Real Betis amid suggestions that Barcelona are keen to sign the central midfielder during this summer's transfer window.
The Catalan outfit are expected to sign a new holding midfielder this summer, even if Sergio Busquets decides to sign a new contract at Camp Nou.
Fiorentina's Sofyan Amrabat is said to be the club's leading target in that area of the field, although there have been claims that the Morocco international could prove to be too expensive.
According to Sport, Rodriguez is also viewed as a target, and the experienced midfielder has halted contract talks with Real Betis in the hope of pushing through a switch to Camp Nou.
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The report claims that Real Betis would be open to selling the Argentina international this summer if he made it clear that he was not interested in penning an extension.
Rodriguez made the move to the Green and Whites from America in 2020, and he has represented the Spanish club on 138 occasions in all competitions, contributing seven goals and registering three assists.
The South American has again been a vital player for Manuel Pellegrini's side during the 2022-23 campaign, featuring on 38 occasions in all competitions, scoring twice in the process.
Rodriguez's existing deal with Real Betis is due to expire next summer, meaning that the Seville-based outfit are not in a strong position when it comes to his future.
Arsenal have also previously been credited with an interest in the midfielder, although there are currently no indications that the Gunners could battle Barcelona for his signature.
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Barcelona are on the verge of winning the La Liga title, but they again suffered disappointment in Europe this season, failing to make it out of the group stage of the Champions League.
Xavi's side then lost to Manchester United in the Europa League playoff knockout round, while they were beaten by Real Madrid in the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey.
Barcelona are expected to be active during the summer market despite their financial problems, although the club will not be in a position to make any big-money acquisitions.
The Catalan outfit are hoping to bring Lionel Messi back to the club, with the Argentine set to leave Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer, although they could struggle to afford what would be a big-money deal.
Matt Law
