Man City told to pay ‘£70m’ to complete Nicolo Barella deal – sources
Man City have been told they will have to pay at least £70million to complete a deal for Nicolo Barella, sources have told Football Insider.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that it would cost City a “huge” fee to pry the midfielder away from Inter Milan in the January transfer window.
Barella, 27, is on a long-term deal until 2029 at the San Siro and his club are not willing to entertain talk over his exit – but could be tempted by a significant offer.
City’s interest comes following the serious injury blow Rodri picked up in their 2-2 draw against Arsenal at the Etihad on 22 September.
While there has been no official confirmation of the extent of the injury, Pep Guardiola revealed he would be “out for a long, long time” and would require surgery.
As a result, City are expected to dip into the transfer market to find a replacement, with Barella earmarked as an outstanding candidate for the role.
However, Inter remain desperate to hang on to their star man, and will demand a significant offer if they are to let him leave mid-way through the season.
Man City line up big-money Nicolo Barella deal after Rodri blow
Barella initially joined Inter on a season-long loan from Cagliari costing £10million in 2019, before making the permanent move for a fee of around £27million – taking the total fee to £37million.
Since then, he has made 240 appearances for the Nerazzurri and established himself as one of their most important players.
With 57 Italy caps also under his belt, he has become one of the most highly-regarded midfielders in Europe, having also attracted interest from the likes of Liverpool and Newcastle.
Now, though, City are weighing up the possibility of a big-money January deal as they scramble to replace Rodri at the base of their midfield.
Barella is seen as a natural ready-made replacement for the 28-year-old, who would be able to immediately step into Guardiola’s side.
Sources say City are keen not to rush into any deals and will take their time to consider whether a replacement is needed, depending on how they handle Rodri’s absence until January.
However, Barella’s name remains at the top of their list should they choose to make a move for a replacement to aid their title bid.
In other news, Man City in pole position to sign Jamal Musiala as boss breaks silence.
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