Manchester City are already thinking about the future. However, their midfield remains the main focus.
Rodri has been the heartbeat of Pep Guardiola’s side for years. Also, his role as the anchor has been central to City’s success.
So, with speculation about Rodri’s long-term future, the club are preparing alternatives. The plan is to identify someone who can step in if he leaves.
La Liga giants Real Madrid have been a long-time admirer of Rodri. So, they will swoop in whenever the Spaniard becomes available in the market.
According to CaughtOffside, City have now set their sights on a rising Bundesliga talent. Scouts are convinced he has the right qualities to fit Guardiola’s system.
At just 22, Aleksandar Pavlovic is already making an impact in Germany. He has featured six times this season for Bayern Munich and scored one goal.
Therefore, City are considering a January move. Reports suggest a bid between €45m and €50m is being lined up.
The decision will depend on Bayern’s stance and the player’s progress. But Guardiola is a strong admirer of his profile.
However, City are not alone in this race. Juventus are also monitoring Pavlovic as part of their midfield rebuild.
Paris Saint-Germain are keeping tabs too. They want to balance their squad by adding a midfielder who can combine technique with defensive work. Even Manchester United wanted him at one stage.
Pavlovic’s emergence at Bayern Munich has made him one of the most sought-after young midfielders in Europe.
Manchester City see him as the perfect candidate to one day replace Rodri. But Juventus and PSG’s presence ensures competition will be fierce.
Therefore, City’s pursuit of Pavlovic could define their midfield planning. Landing him would reinforce Guardiola’s vision of dominance both in England and in Europe.
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