Barcelona 'lay groundwork for £80m Rodri transfer' and more Man City rumours

Barcelona are reportedly laying the groundwork for an £80m swoop for key Manchester City player Rodri.

Pep Guardiola has confirmed with his team selections over the last couple of seasons that the 26-year-old defensive midfielder is a key player in the City squad. Despite a couple of under-par performances in recent weeks, Rodri has remained at the heart of the Blues' midfield with Kalvin Phillips struggling to break into the first team ahead of him.

However, according to Football Insider, Barca are keen to bring the midfielder to La Liga in a multi-million pound swoop. The report suggests that the Catalan club's manager Xavi is a big admirer of the City player.

ALSO READ: Rodri urges City to take advantage of what Arsenal are missing

It is reported that Barcelona are on the lookout for a defensive midfield replacement for Sergio Busquets who is expected to leave Barcelona at the end of the season. Elsewhere, the Daily Mirror reports that City are planning to open talks with World Cup winner Julian Alvarez over a new contract.

Since linking up with the City first team in the summer, Alvarez has had to contend with being a second-choice option to Erling Haaland. The Norwegian's sensational form at the Etihad has not halted the 23-year-old's progress though.

In 29 appearances, most of which have come as a substitute, Alvarez has scored nine goals and has shown his ability to play in multiple positions across the front line. Although his contract is due to expire in 2027, Pep Guardiola is thought to be wanting to sit down with the Argentinian international in the summer to discuss his future.

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