Manchester City are making moves in the transfer market once again. With the window closing soon, Pep Guardiola is eager to strengthen his midfield. His top target? Porto’s Nico Gonzalez.
The 23-year-old Spaniard, who came through Barcelona’s academy, has been in fine form this season. He has scored seven goals and provided six assists in 29 appearances.
More importantly, he can play in multiple midfield roles, which is exactly what City need.
?? EXCLUSIVE: Manchester City made formal approach with Porto to ask for Nico González as new midfielder.
Talks started, Porto hope to keep Nico and ask for important transfer fee or won’t leave.
❗️ Release clause worth €60m and key point, Barcelona have 40% sell-on clause. pic.twitter.com/QsNBnVNTBa
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 31, 2025
With Rodri missing at times this season, City want a strong backup. Atalanta’s Ederson was an option, but the Italian club refuses to sell mid-season.
Douglas Luiz has been linked as well, but Juventus are also playing hard to negotiate. That has led City to Gonzalez, who has a £50 million release clause. However, the club is hoping to strike a deal for less.
Guardiola wants one more signing before transfer deadline
City have already been busy in the market. Omar Marmoush, Abdukodir Khusanov, and Vitor Reis have all joined in recent weeks. A deal for Gonzalez would push their spending past £150 million this window.
Guardiola knows that finding the perfect replacement for Rodri is tough. Instead, he wants a versatile midfielder who can cover multiple positions. That’s why Gonzalez fits the profile.
On Friday, Guardiola hinted that more signings are coming. He pointed out that City’s positive net spend over the last five years has allowed them to spend big now. He also suggested that a major squad rebuild is on the way this summer.
With time running out, will City get their man? Negotiations are ongoing, and a deal could happen fast.
