Manchester City reject opening Rodri bid as Bouaddi talks advance
Manchester City are exploring a move for Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez, with Rodri expected to join Barcelona, according to Saturday's transfer gossip.
City are close to signing Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, with talks in the final phase on a deal worth up to €100m as they reshape their midfield amid talk of Rodri's exit.
Maresca will appoint City's captain himself, with Ruben Dias the favourite. He wants more English influence in the leadership group before Atletico Madrid.
Barcelona's €45m plus add-ons bid for Rodri was rejected, with City holding out for about €80m or £60m. Rodri wants the move, but City will not sell cheaply.
Rodri chose Barcelona over Real Madrid after Pep Guardiola advised that their style suited him best. City want about €70m, with a fee agreement the final hurdle.
Rodri's likely move to Barcelona would leave City with a major midfield void, while Arsenal hope Barca's spending could weaken their chances of signing Julian Alvarez.
City are in the race for Barcelona teenager Tommy Marques and could buy him before sending him on loan to Girona, as Barca reshape their midfield amid the Rodri pursuit.
Rayan Ait-Nouri wants more goals after scoring his first for City in Seoul. He praised Reijnders' assist, the win and the Atletico test before Arsenal next week.
Maresca said City's pre-season is a 'reset' as exits continue after James Trafford's £40m move to Leeds. Rodri's future remains unclear after Barcelona had a bid rejected.
City have agreed a deal for Marseille keeper Geronimo Rulli until 2028, with an option for 2029. The 34-year-old arrives as experienced backup after James Trafford's exit.
