Barcelona have been handed a major boost in their efforts to sign Guido Rodriguez.
Given their need to raise funds during the summer transfer window, the Catalan giants have not made any major additions to their ranks thus far.
Nevertheless, incomings are known to be on their radar with Hansi Flick having been appointed as the successor to Xavi.
When any will materialise remains to be seen, yet it would naturally be easier if Barcelona can acquire proven players who are available on free transfers.
Throughout the last campaign, Real Betis midfielder Rodriguez was in that position with their fellow La Liga side continuously monitoring the situation.
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Barcelona closer to Rodriguez deal
From June 1, Barcelona have been able to hold discussions with the Argentina international as they look to win the race for his signature.
Jose Miguel Lopez Catalan - the vice-president of Betis - has now revealed that Rodriguez has opted to shun a new contract at Estadio Benito Villamarin.
As per transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Catalan said: "We made proposals to extend their (Juan Miranda and Rodriguez) contracts but they didn't accept."
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What now?
First and foremost, Barcelona need to facilitate some sales, which may start with the transfer of young forward Marc Guiu to Chelsea.
Six loan players have returned to Camp Nou and their futures will need to be resolved too. The preference with the majority will be a permanent exit.
In the past, Rodriguez has stated that he "feels at home" at Betis, but admitted there was no certainty of his situation when he spoke in April.
The 30-year-old may be in no rush to make a final decision, as well as also being prepared to remain patient while Barcelona make room for him financially.
He will leave Betis having made 173 appearances in all competitions across a four-and-a-half-year stint, scoring nine goals.
Darren Plant
