Man City make decision on signing Rodri replacement in January
Manchester City are not prioritising the signing of a defensive midfielder in the January transfer window, sources have told Football Insider.
That is despite the fact that Rodri continues to have injury problems, leaving Pep Guardiola’s side light in that area of the pitch.
Tijjani Reijnders was exposed in the holding midfield role during City’s 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa, struggling to adapt to a new position.
However, sources say that the eight-time Premier League champions will utilise the rest of their squad while Rodri is injured, rather than signing a replacement.
Man City have midfield options
Man City brought in Nico Gonzalez during the last January transfer window as a backup to Rodri, but the 23-year-old has been struggling with fitness issues of his own recently.
However, City have faith in Gonzalez to fill in for the Balon d’Or winner while he is out, and also have other options for the defensive midfield role.
Both John Stones and Rico Lewis have played in that position in the past, with Guardiola not afraid to make bold decisions.
The upshot is that City are unlikely to enter the transfer market while Rodri is injured, as they feel the likes of Lewis, Stones and Gonzalez are sufficient replacements.
Man City planning for the summer
Despite their reluctance to enter the transfer market in January, City are exploring midfield options for next summer.
In recent weeks, Man City have been linked with Joao Neves from Paris Saint-Germain, after he had a superb campaign last season.
The Portugal international helped his side win the treble and recently ranked 19th on the Ballon d’Or shortlist.
Neves could be a replacement for Rodri if the Spaniard does leave the club at the end of the season.
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