Barcelona transfer plans could affect Man City summer strategy again

There was a smile on the face of the Manchester City chairman when he was asked how quickly subsequent transfers would be done. Khaldoon Al Mubarak had said that there will be more than one new arrival on top of Erling Haaland and Julian Alvarez, but any moves for players must be thrashed out with other clubs.

Not only do City have to deal with the selling club, but often that party is relying on others for their own plans. A bit like buying a house, chains are common and can go through smoothly or collapse at any moment.

As Txiki Begiristain and the recruitment team plot to improve what is already an excellent window, they will find some familiar faces as they come to do their business. Barcelona, where Begiristain enjoyed a successful career on and off the pitch, are likely to be prominent again.

Also read:Man City bosses take early decision on Julian Alvarez for next season

Perhaps it was inevitable given the links between the two clubs but Barcelona and City have been closely connected for many a transfer window now. It remains a remarkable quirk that City would have stepped up efforts to sell John Stones - one of their best centre-backs over the last two years - had Eric Garcia not decided he wanted to return to the Nou Camp in 2020, and after finally getting him and Sergio Aguero on free transfers the following summer Ferran Torres became the first key signing of the Xavi era in January 2022.

Once again, Barcelona and City's paths look to have crossed - albeit with an unusual third party in Leeds United. Unless Frenkie de Jong becomes the midfielder Guardiola is after, the two European heavyweights will attempt to pilfer Elland Road for two of Jesse March's best players.

Barcelona want Raphinha, and have made