Manchester City have reportedly set their sights on Nico Gonzalez and are plotting a summer move for the Barcelona prodigy.
According to a report by Spanish outlet Fichajes, Nico Gonzalez is the subject of interest from Manchester City over a move in next summer’s transfer window. The Premier League heavyweights are eyeing the 19-year-old Barcelona prodigy as a long-term successor for Fernandinho.
Nico Gonzalez joined Barcelona from Montaneros in 2013 before progressing leaps and bounds in the club’s famed academy La Masia. Over the last eight years or so, the teenage prodigy has generated enough hype to already be viewed as potentially a long-term solution in midfield for the Blaugrana.
In fact, the 19-year-old has already gone some way in justifying the hype surrounding him, making six appearances for Barcelona so far this season, and is quickly starting to become a key player for Ronald Koeman, despite some recent criticism. His progress has duly been noted by one of the biggest clubs in Europe as well, with Manchester City setting their sights on him.
Manchester City have one of the most loaded squads in the continent, with midfield, in particular, being the team’s strongest suit under Pep Guardiola. However, it is worth noting that Fernandinho is in the twilight of his career and could well be on his way out of the Etihad next summer.
Even if the veteran Brazilian midfielder stays put, it is prudent for Manchester City to lay down the succession plan for him, with Rodri the only other holding midfielder at Guardiola’s disposal. As a result, the ex-Barcelona manager has turned his attention towards his former club, with Gonzalez a viable target.
The 19-year-old prodigy is not the only Barcelona player on the radar of Manchester City, who are also showing an interest in Sergi Roberto. As for Gonzalez himself, he could be pursued over a big summer move by the Premier League heavyweights.
Barcelona, on their part, are determined to keep a hold of the young prospect, although keeping their financial woes in mind, their hand could well be forced if Manchester City produce an attractive enough offer. What now remains to be seen is if the Citizens do produce such a bid to swoop Gonzalez away from Barcelona.
