Manchester City join race for Barcelona’s midfield prodigy

According to reports, Manchester City are plotting a stunning move to sign Barcelona’s teenage midfield prodigy Pablo Gavi in January amidst the financial crisis at the Blaugrana, The Mirror understands.

Gavi, 17, has been absolutely spectacular with his style of play ever since making his debut for Barcelona under former manager Ronald Koeman. The Spaniard has been the best of the lot while coming to midfield, with Frenkie De Jong and Sergi Roberto finding it difficult to break into the Starting XI in his presence.

The 17-year-old though hadn’t wasted any time whatsoever in gaining a spot in Luis Enrique’s Spanish side making him the youngest ever debutant for his country. The teenager has featured four times for La Roja in the UEFA Nations League and was scintillating to watch.

The Spaniard though couldn’t lead the Spanish side  to glory after his side lost to World Champions France 2-3 in the semi final clash. France managed a stunning comeback with their backs to the wall at halftime conceding a 2-0 lead to Luis Enrique’s side. This came after Spain were knocked out of the Euros by eventual champions Italy in a tense semifinal clash which was decided by penalties.

El Nacional claims that Manchester City though could find it a stern task to get his prized signature with the likes of Liverpool, Chelsea and Paris Saint Germain tracking progress of the highly rated youngster.

The source further adds that the Cityzens are ready to “multiply his salary and want to establish him as the cornerstone of club’s future”. Pep Guardiola hasn’t been reluctant to disclose the fact that he is in love with Gavin’s style of play and would do everything possible to land the 17-year-old.

Barcelona are said to be in final phase of negotiations with the youngster on signing him a 5 year contract with a whooping €1 billion release clause. In my opinion the deal is going to be terminated in the initial stages itself with the midfielder said to have been “clear that his place is at Barca”, the source concludes.