Pep Guardiola set to be denied ‘highly rated’ midfield target

Manchester City are in the market to secure a long-term replacement for club legend and veteran, Fernandinho. The Brazilian is tipped to leave the Cityzens next term and Rodri will remain as the only apparent holding midfielder in the City ranks. Having said that, City have been linked to one of the world’s best prospects.

The Cityzens have been linked with FC Barcelona midfielder, Frenkie De Jong. In the last 2-3 years, De Jong has been arguably Barcelona’s best player after Messi. The stats may not show it but his displays were quite evident of the reason why he is rated so highly by many.

De Jong is apparently on the radar of City as per Fichajes but the Catalan giants are unlikely to sell one of their best players despite the precarious financial situation that they are currently stuck in. Having said that, Manchester City have also been linked with West Ham United’s Declan Rice.

Rice was one of the standout performers for England in the recently concluded Euro 2020 but there is expected to be some intense competition to secure his signature as the likes of Manchester United and Chelsea have also been linked with a move for the Englishman.

Frenkie De Jong at City seems like a near impossibility though nothing can be ruled out at any stage.

It is understood that FDJ is currently valued at €100 million and with him being only 24, it can be considered as a good investment if City do decide to go for him. The Dutchman though is a much better attacking midfielder than in a holding position. The 24-year-old however, has been employed by Ronald Koeman to provide cover in the holding position.

I personally don’t see this deal happening as Barcelona will be eager to keep hold of one of their best players. FDJ is considered to be the future of Barca at Camp Nou and is expected to play a huge role in the club’s recovery to glory.