Barcelona reportedly received an enquiry for Nelson Semedo from Premier League champions Manchester City, which they rejected in swift fashion.
Spanish publication Sport claim Manchester City had enquired as to the probability of signing Nelson Semedo. But, Barcelona, who were previously open to offers for the Portuguese, have swiftly rejected the enquiry and are now keen to keep him.
It wasn’t a flat out rejection, but Barcelona refused to negotiate and instead directed Manchester City to meet Semedo’s release clause, which reportedly stands at €90 million. This could be down to Barcelona spending a lot and not willing to enter the transfer market for a right-back in the current window.
Nelson Semedo’s career has failed to take flight since earning a move to Barcelona. Often having to share game time with makeshift right-back Sergi Roberto, the Spaniard has often outmuscled Semedo for the starting spot in the first eleven, which just goes to show that the Portuguese has been unable to establish himself firmly at the club.
Manchester City do have Danilo and Kyle Walker at the club. But, Pep Guardiola is looking to strengthen their options in defence and are looking to bring in Nelson Semedo to act as a deputy to Walker. City have already strengthened the left flank with the arrival of Angelino from PSV Eindhoven.
Guardiola does not want a repeat of last season, where, despite winning the Premier League, the Manchester Blues faltered in the Champions League. Guardiola has failed to reach the finals of the Champions League after departing from Barcelona and will be keen to do so at Etihad.
Barcelona, on the other hand, are set to promote Moussa Wague into the first-team setup, who could act as a cover for Sergi Roberto.
Manchester City were targeting Joao Cancelo. But, the talks broke down and Jorge Mendes then reportedly proceeded to offer them Nelson Semedo. However, it seems Ernesto Valverde expects Semedo to step up this season and is not willing to let the Portuguese go.
It will be interesting to see if Semedo repays the faith that Barcelona are apparently showing in him.
