New midfield target identified
Manchester City have identified Marc Bernal as a potential long-term successor to Rodri, according to sources familiar with the agents industry. The 19-year-old Barcelona midfielder is being monitored by the Blues as they plan for life beyond their Spanish linchpin.
City are not alone in their interest. Chelsea and Arsenal are also following Bernal, which underlines how highly the teenager is rated across English football.
Any deal, however, looks exceptionally difficult.
Barcelona's strong position
Barcelona have protected Bernal with a contract that runs until 2029 and includes a €500 million release clause. The Catalan club have no intention of selling, and the player himself appears settled.
Bernal has received assurances that he features in Hansi Flick’s plans for the coming season. He showed no interest in leaving Camp Nou when Manchester United recently attempted to include him in discussions over Marcus Rashford’s future. Barcelona immediately rejected that approach.
The message from Spain is clear: Bernal is not for sale at any reasonable price. City may need to look elsewhere — or wait.