Manchester City Open Talks With Former Barcelona Midfielder

Premier League champions Manchester City have made a late formal approach to FC Porto for midfielder, Nico Gonzalez, according to emerging reports.

Txiki Begiristain and the recruitment team have been busy in the current January transfer market. Having already invested over £120 million on three new signings, the club continues to be active as the window approaches its closing days.

The ongoing search focuses on the midfield area of Pep Guardiola’s setup. With noticeable struggles in that department this season, especially due to Rodri’s long-term injury, there is a recognition that investment in this position is essential.

So far, Manchester City has had little luck in bringing in a new central midfielder, having shown an interest in a short-term loan deal for Juventus’ Douglas Luiz and holding admiration for Atalanta’s Éderson.

With only a few days left in the transfer market, the pursuit of a new addition for the central midfield position seems to be escalating. Txiki Begiristain has shifted the search and discussions towards Portuguese football.

According to exclusive information from transfer market insider Fabrizio Romano, Manchester City has now made a formal approach to FC Porto over central midfielder Nico González, with talks underway.

Reports indicate that the Portuguese giants aim to retain Gonzalez and are prepared to demand a significant transfer fee from Manchester City. Without meeting this financial expectation, the player is unlikely to join the Etihad Stadium this month.

Notably, it has been highlighted that the 23-year-old Spaniard has a release clause of €60 million in his contract with Porto.

Additionally, his former club, FC Barcelona, holds a 40 percent sell-on clause related to the agreement that facilitated his move to Portugal in 2023.