Valencia vs Barcelona pre-match centre

Conflicting reports have turned Julian Alvarez's future into a genuine muddle, with one outlet declaring Barcelona dead and Arsenal ready to pounce, and another claiming he's freezing out Mikel Arteta to keep the Barcelona move alive. Here's what's actually confirmed versus what's competing spin.

Barcelona have accused Spanish police of using 'disproportionate' force against fans and confiscating Estelada flags outside the Martinez Valero before their 5-0 win at Elche. Police and the regional government have yet to respond.

Rodri has completed a £65.4m move from Manchester City to Barcelona, rejecting a direct approach from Real Madrid's José Mourinho, who has since admitted he sensed 'doubts' in the World Cup-winning captain. Barcelona now plan to groom the 30-year-old as Sergio Busquets' long-term successor, while City move to replace him and Real Madrid's Mourinho reboot takes an early credibility hit.

Barcelona have signed Manchester City's Ballon d'Or holder Rodri for £65m on a four-year deal, ending a seven-season spell that yielded 12 trophies. The move raises fitness-risk questions after injury-hit seasons but follows a player-of-the-tournament display at the World Cup.

Rodri has completed a €76.5m (£65m) move from Manchester City to Barcelona, signing a four-year deal weeks after winning the World Cup's player of the tournament award. The deal followed a dramatic chase in which Barcelona overtook Real Madrid after City rejected an initial £38.5m bid.

Barcelona have agreed a £65m deal to sign Manchester City captain Rodri, ending a seven-year, trophy-laden spell that saw him win 12 major honours and the 2024 Ballon d'Or. The move raises questions about City's midfield future and whether a 30-year-old with recent knee and hamstring injuries is a safe long-term investment for Barcelona.

Paris St-Germain have signed World Cup final matchwinner Ferran Torres from Barcelona for a reported €50m, the latest piece in a summer spending spree that also includes Maghnes Akliouche and Mika Godts. The deal raises fresh questions about Barcelona's finances and PSG's growing dominance of European football.

Manchester City have reportedly agreed personal terms with Lille teenager Ayyoub Bouaddi as they prepare for Rodri's likely exit, even as they weigh a costlier move for Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez and chase winger Pedro Neto. With Barcelona's £38.5m bid rejected and Real Madrid circling, City's midfield rebuild under Enzo Maresca is already in motion.