MANCHESTER CITY could raid Barcelona for their midfield stars… if Luis Enrique replaces Pep Guardiola at the Etihad.
Reports claim there is some “fear” behind the scenes at City that Guardiola could walk this summer – despite signing a contract extension until 2025 just last year.
And Enrique has reportedly been earmarked as the man to replace Guardiola if he does end up leaving.
The 52-year-old was sacked as Spain boss after the World Cup but has revealed his desire to work in the Premier League, and has been linked with the vacant Tottenham job.
During his time with Spain, Enrique gave Barcelona duo Pedri and Gavi their first caps for the national team.
Joining City could see Enrique try and prise the duo away from cash strapped Barca.
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Enrique also spent three years in charge at the Nou Camp, and while Pedri and Gavi were in the academy at the time, the Barcelona link is there.
Midfielder Gavi, 18, has been stripped of his contract and squad number as the club are unable to register him as a first-team player.
That has sparked rumours regarding his future at the Nou Camp.
But getting hold of Pedri, 20, could prove to be more difficult.
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The Barcelona academy product signed a new deal in 2021 with a ONE BILLION euro (£882million) release clause.
Enrique also has experience working with Aymeric Laporte and could choose to keep him on, despite the defender reportedly wanting to leave for Barcelona.
Alternatively, City are also one of the favourites to land England starlet Jude Bellingham.
The 19-year-old could leave Borussia Dortmund this summer and would walk into any midfield in world football, including City’s.
Elsewhere, City are also reported to be monitoring Celta Vigo midfielder Gabri Veiga.
The 20-year-old has a £35million release clause and is also attracting interest from Arsenal, Newcastle and Real Madrid.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
