Manchester City are reportedly keen on signing 19-year-old Barcelona midfielder Gavi, also a target for Chelsea.
A report from TEAMtalk has claimed that Gavi is valued at £120 million by Barcelona. Meanwhile, Premier League champions Manchester City will battle rivals Chelsea for the signature of the Spanish midfield prodigy.
The 19-year-old Barcelona midfielder is one of the best in the world in his position, and he could prove to be an exceptional acquisition for any club. Recent reports have linked the Spanish international with several high-profile clubs like Chelsea.
Manchester City could certainly use more quality and technical ability in the middle of the park, especially if players like Bernardo Silva leave in the near future. Gavi will add goals and creativity in the middle if he joins the club. Manchester City certainly have the finances to pay the reported £120 million asking price and it remains to be seen how the situation develops.
The Premier League giants won the treble last season and will be looking to push for major trophies on a consistent basis. They need to have a top-class squad in order to compete with elite clubs every season. Someone like Gavi would improve them immensely.
It is fair to assume that Barcelona will not want to lose a player like him anytime soon. But they could be tempted to sell if there is a lucrative proposal on the table. Barcelona are going through financial difficulties right now, and selling a prospect like Gavi could balance the books.
Meanwhile, Chelsea could use someone like him as well. The Blues have been very active in the transfer market under their new owners and they will look to push Manchester City for his signature.
However, they will have to return to the Champions League to sign someone like Gavi. The youngster will not want to play in a club without European football. Chelsea finished 12th in the league table last season and have not been able to secure European qualification for this season.
Gavi has already established himself as a key player for Barcelona, and he is only going to get better with coaching and experience. Working under Pep Guardiola, who has a stellar reputation and a proven track record when it comes to nurturing young players, will only benefit the midfielder and help him develop further.
Although the boyhood Barcelona fan might not be keen on exiting any time soon, he might consider a transfer if there is a suitable project ahead of him. Manchester City have established themselves as a European powerhouse and any player would find it hard to reject them.
