Manchester City look to sign Italian superstar as Rodri's replacement

A new midfield player has already been linked to Manchester City following Rodri's shuffle off the ground during Sunday's 2-2 draw with Arsenal. The Spain international's feared cruciate ligament injury is expected to keep him out of action for the rest of the 2024–25 season, which would seriously jeopardise Manchester City's chances of winning anything this year.

Pep Guardiola is reportedly anxious to sign Inter Milan's Nicolo Barella, according to an Inter Live story. The Italian news source estimates that the Inter Milan No. 23 is worth almost €80 million (£67 million) at the San Siro. Real Madrid as well as PSG are two other teams that are fans of the Italian star.

Nevertheless, according to Inter Live, Guardiola is eager to get the 27-year- old to the Etihad Stadium as quickly as possible because he has "fallen in love" with Barella, whom he views as one of the world's most complete midfielders. In his four Serie A games this season, the Cagliari native has one goal and one assist.

Simone Inzaghi started Barella in the starting lineup for the UEFA Champions League final in 2023, where Manchester City secured a 1-0 win on the strength of a goal from Rodri. Given how good Barella was, and how Liverpool had looked at him, perhaps this was the match where Guardiola struck in love.

Nicolo Barella - the perfect Rodri replacement for Manchester City

Had Romelu Lukaku brought his shooting boots, Barella, who was undoubtedly the most brilliant midfielder on the field that day, could have led Inter Milan towards European triumph with his performance.
 
After sacrificing Rodri to injury, Manchester City might opt to purchase the Inter Milan playmaker, so be sure to continue keeping an eye on this development. Manchester City do not have great quality of holding midfielders at the club. Mateo Kovacic was the back-up for Rodri but he is not at the same level as he is.