Transfer News: Rodri to Barcelona, where does Manchester City go from here?

Transfer news: Rodri edges towards Barcelona, Vinícius stays at Madrid, plus Chelsea and Trafford deals.

Rodri has chosen to join Barcelona, with the Vini Jr. contract believed to have impacted Real Madrid's finances. (Photo credit: BBC)

Thursday revealed some information we were already aware of or had anticipated, but it also provided us with an unexpected shock. The Vinicius Jr. saga concluded on Thursday with news of a contract extension agreement with Real Madrid, but we also received unexpected news from next door.

The Vini to Arsenal conversation is dead, but we will come back to that. Barcelona is now the likeliest destination for want-away Manchester City anchorman Rodri. After his long-standing interest in moving to Real Madrid, the Spanish World Cup winner is now edging closer to a move to the Camp Nou.

This is shocking news, to say the least. From speaking highly of Real Madrid to accepting Barcelona's terms, we can now confirm that the Spanish champions and Manchester City are now discussing the subject directly, with an agreement expected to be reached sooner rather than later.

This leaves Manchester City empty in the middle of the park. Elliot Anderson was signed for a huge sum to replace Bernardo Silva; now, the Cityzens must find a suitable replacement for the man who made the Etihad his and won the Ballon d'Or.

Now, to the Premier League champions, Arsenal. The Vini chase only means one thing: the Gunners now operate on a higher level. There were no guarantees that they would get Vini, but they went for him regardless. That shows they are no longer at the level they used to be.

The left side of Arsenal's attack could use some help. Christos Tzolis does not represent the level of greatness they seek; however, the Greek forward can do a good job when they need him to. Arsenal must now go for someone who indeed is a level-raiser.

A couple of names come to mind. Ilman Ndiaye can play both wings; he could come in as good support, while a bigger name in Kvicha Kvaratskhelia could also be discussed, although that would stress them exactly the way Vini did.

Arsenal must also try to move some players on. Gabriel Jesus realistically doesn't have any future at Arsenal; there's talk of interest from Napoli and other Italian clubs, but you know how that ends: a loan with an option to buy.

Players like Nelson and Fabio Vieira must also look for new clubs. The recruitment team must trim the squad ahead of any new arrival. This is not because of funds, but for squad size. Arsenal should be ready to compete for the title again with a left-sided attacker and defensive cover for William Saliba and Jurrien Timber. One player can serve both purposes.

After the shock sale of Marc Cucurella, Chelsea has now confirmed an agreement with Rayo Vallecano for Pep Chavaria. The left back will join the Blues for a fee of €19m and is expected to undergo his Chelsea medical on Friday. This one happened quickly.

The sojourn of England goalkeeper James Trafford continues as he has finalized his £45m move to Leeds United from Manchester City. The former Burnley goalkeeper joins Leeds United following Gigi Donnarumma's arrival at City. Will he finally find a home at Elland Road?