Manchester City learn asking price for 27-year-old star identified as Rodri replacement: Reports
Manchester City have learnt the asking price for 27-year-old star Nico Barella, who has been identified as a replacement for Rodri, according to Football Insider (via Daily Mail). The Cityzens are searching for a solution to the current gap in their midfield following Rodri's injury, and Inter Milan's Barella is being seen as a viable option.
The City midfielder suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury during their match against Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium on September 22. He has now been ruled out for the rest of the season after undergoing surgery. To this end, City have deemed Barella to be the best alternative for Rodri.
The Italian midfielder notably played against City in Inter Milan's 0-0 draw at the Etihad Stadium on September 18, winning the Player of the Match award. The 27-year-old has a contract at the Stadio Guiseppe Meazza that expires in 2029, giving Inter Milan the power at the negotiation table.
The aforementioned report claims they are asking Manchester City to pay £70 million for Barella. The midfielder has played 240 games in total for Inter. This season, he has played five games, scoring once and providing one assist.
Pep Guardiola insists Manchester City midfield in Newcastle clash was "exceptional" despite Rodri's absence
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola responded to questions about Rodri's absence following their match against Newcastle United. The Cityzens dropped points in a 1-1 draw against Newcastle at St. James' Park on Saturday, September 28.
With Rodri out of contention, Guardiola chose Mateo Kovacic, Bernardo Silva, and Rico Lewis to man the midfield. When asked about Rodri's absence, the manager said to the press (via Sky Sports):
"Guys I'm going to tell you, I know you're going to ask me all the time: of course we're going to miss Rodri. Physicality, his presence… I know it but he's not here.
"I'm judging Kovacic and Rico and Bernardo, how we have played. That was exceptional. I know if we don't do well it's because of Rodri [not being there]. I have to find a solution. We're going to find a solution."
Manchester City turn to the UEFA Champions League this mid-week, as they face Slovan Bratislava at the Tehelne Pole in Slovakia on Tuesday, October 1.