Pep Guardiola wants Barcelona midfielder as Rodri replacement

Pep Guardiola sees Barcelona midfielder as potential Rodri replacement and the club could be open to selling him.

Manchester City is gearing up for the upcoming January transfer window to find a replacement for Rodri, who sustained an ACL injury against Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium last weekend, resulting in a prolonged absence from the team.

In light of this, Pep Guardiola has identified Barcelona’s Frenkie De Jong as the ideal candidate to step in for Rodri, as reported by Madrid-Barcelona Portal.

De Jong, 27, is facing an uncertain future at the Nou Camp, with the emergence of young talents Pedri and Gavi posing a threat to his role in the team.

Nevertheless, his considerable salary presents a difficulty for everyone concerned. De Jong is currently earning close to £1 million per week, including bonuses, according to Capology.

He has chosen to delay receiving a portion of his wages amidst the Covid-19 pandemic, resulting in an outstanding sum of around £15 million.

His departure from Barcelona next summer would effectively reduce the length of his contract by one year.

Nevertheless, given City’s immediate requirement for a replacement for Rodri in January, it is feasible that he could be requested to expedite his relocation.

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