Man City have a crucial second summer transfer priority to give Pep Guardiola long term success

Maybe the most efficient part of Pep Guardiola’s marvellous City machine is the midfield trio. From the power and dynamism of Fernandinho and Rodri to the technical brilliance of Kevin De Bruyne, Ilkay Gundogan and Bernardo Silva, the Catalan has found a perfect balance.

It goes all the way back to his early days at Barcelona. Sergio Busquets, Xavi and Andrés Iniesta are widely recognised as one of the best midfield trios football has ever seen and became the heartbeat of Guardiola’s two-time Champions League-winning side.

This cycle of players has been hugely successful for City – and they’re certainly not finished yet – but the club will have to plan for the long-term, and securing a young number eight could be crucial this summer to ensure a smooth transition.

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Bernardo Silva’s surprise signing in 2017 will be remembered fondly for a host of reasons, but it was the ultimate succession plan for his namesake David Silva, who was clearly winding down his illustrious career in Manchester.

Players who come into Guardiola’s system need time to adapt and progress individually. Very rarely has someone come into City and hit the ground running in attacking areas during his reign. Riyad Mahrez, Joao Cancelo, Rodri; all of them needed a season to understand their managers' detailed tactics – but they are all now performing at an elite level on the highest stages.

Each player has replaced another – but it’s not been direct. City’s hierarchy will be aware of the situation around the squad, and it would not be a shock if a new number eight walked through the door this summer.

De Bruyne is 30 years old and still has a few seasons at his absolute peak – which is