Manchester City eye Barcelona youngster Tommy Marques in potential Rodri deal

Manchester City are considering asking for Barcelona midfielder Tommy Marques to be included in any agreement involving Rodri, as they continue to plan for the possibility of the Spain international leaving the club.

According to Foot Mercato, City have identified Marques as one of the options they could pursue as they assess how to strengthen their midfield. The proposed arrangement would see the 19-year-old move to Manchester City alongside a financial payment as part of a potential transfer taking Rodri to Barcelona.

City regard Marques as an important prospect for the future of their midfield, despite his limited experience at senior level. The teenager has come through Barcelona’s La Masia academy and was given his first-team opportunity last season, making two appearances in La Liga.

His performances and potential have attracted the attention of Manchester City officials, who are examining several possibilities in case Rodri’s proposed move to Barcelona goes ahead. Including Marques in the deal could also help facilitate negotiations between the two clubs if an agreement is reached over the Spanish midfielder.

The interest in Marques forms part of City’s wider strategy of investing in young talent. The club are also interested in Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, another player viewed as a long-term option for the team.

City are considering further alternatives should they fail to reach an agreement for Marques. Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez and Bouaddi are among the leading candidates being assessed as possible midfield reinforcements.

Marques’ lack of extensive first-team experience has not prevented him from emerging as a target for the Premier League club. City believe his potential could make him a valuable addition as they prepare for the possibility of replacing Rodri, although the reported proposal remains dependent on the two clubs reaching an agreement over the wider transfer.

Manchester City finished second in the Premier League last season, seven points behind champions Arsenal. They are due to face Arsenal in the Community Shield shortly before the start of the new Premier League campaign.

City will begin their league season against Bournemouth on Sunday, 23 August, at the Etihad Stadium.