Manchester City monitoring the situation of Barcelona midfield prodigy

Manchester City are reportedly monitoring the situation of Barcelona midfielder Nico Gonzalez. The Premier League leaders are keen on signing the Spaniard in the summer, as per a report from the Spanish outlet Marca.

Nico’s astronomic rise through the ranks

Nico, 20, has been a revelation for Barcelona in the midfield, this season. The Spaniard is currently enjoying a rich vein of form featuring in 25 matches in his first season. He already has two goals and an assist next to his name.

The 20-year-old’s consistent performances in the midfield has forced the Spanish giants into considering increasing his salary. Under Xavi Hernandez, Nico has grown in confidence and is already starting to own the defensive midfielder position.

Manchester City monitoring Nico’s progress

The rapid progression of Nico hasn’t gone unnoticed with as many as five European clubs showing interest in the youngster. Three of them are from the Premier League, one from Serie A and the other from Bundesliga, claims the source.

The reigning PL champions are touted to be one of the potential destinations for Nico, provided he doesn’t renew his current contract at Camp Nou. Guardiola is believed to be a fond admirer of the Spanish midfielder because of the assurance he provides at the heart of the midfield

How could Nico fit into Manchester City setup

Nico could well and truly be the inch-perfect replacement for Fernandinho. The 20-year-old can perfectly fit into Pep’s possession-based system. Moreover, his ability to make late runs into the box can be very well exploited at the Etihad.

In Nico, Guardiola could potentially secure the future of City’s midfield. The midfielder can be a vital cog playing the double pivot for the former Barcelona manager if the occasion does arise.

Under Guardiola, Nico can unlock his true potential and pave way for a potential stellar career ahead of him.

Nico’s situation at Barcelona

Nico’s current deal at Camp Nou runs up to 2024, containing a buyout clause of €500 million. The Spaniard seems to be a priority for Barcelona as the Spanish giants are planning to negotiate a new deal with the midfielder after their deals with Ronald Araujo and Pablo Gavira close down, further adds the source.

Even Nico’s priority seems to be to remain at Camp Nou as he feels comfortable and happy at the club.  But, Barcelona’s transition means that there will be many more departures in the upcoming 12 months and if a big deal does arrive at the table, it would be hard for the Catalan club to resist given their financial situation.

The Final Verdict

Barcelona views Nico Gonzalez to be the potential long term replacement for Sergio Busquets. Given the youngster’s situation  at the club and his minutes under Xavi, leaving the Camp Nou looks unlikely for him, at this stage of his career.