Man City transfers: Expert updates on Rodri replacement
Man City have faced difficulties in their search to find a replacement for Rodri ahead of the January transfer window.
This is according to former Man United and Blackburn chief scout Mick Brown, who remains very well-connected within the game, as he exclusively told Football Insider that any deal for a replacement would have to be right for the club.
Rodri, 28, was ruled out with a long-term knee injury suffered during the 2-2 draw with Arsenal earlier this season and City's form has been heavily impacted by his absence.
As a result, Football Insider revealed on 10 November that a new central midfielder is City's top priority ahead of the January window given their lack of depth.
However, Brown has explained that finding an adequate replacement for the Spaniard, who will be available for the right price in January, has proved difficult.
The 2024 Ballon d'Or winner's role in Pep Guardiola's midfield has established him as arguably the most important player in the side, making the search for a direct replacement testing.
Man City struggling to land Rodri replacement in January transfer twist
Brown previously told Football Insider that City have been drafting a shortlist of potential replacements and working on potential deals.
However, the former scout who has a wealth of experience in top-level player recruitment including over a decade at Man United during their must successful period, has now revealed that the process has proved difficult for the recruitment team.
"Man City will always be looking at replacements for their top players," he told Football Insider.
"They're always looking and preparing for unexpected issues like injuries or any other concerns.
"But it's not easy, there aren't a million players out there who can do the job Rodri does.
"They might be looking and thinking, 'hang on, there isn't actually anybody who's available and who's good enough to do his job'.
"This is the Ballon d'Or winner we're talking about, an exceptional player, so it isn't as easy as signing a direct replacement for him.
"So, from what I've heard, they're struggling a bit to find the right option.
"The money has to be right, too, especially in January, and teams aren't always willing to let their top players leave mid-way through the season."
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