Pep Guardiola looks at Barcelona with special attention again. Manchester City's coach has in mind an operation as ambitious as it is controversial. His intention is to incorporate two key Barça players in an operation that would include big names.
The proposal has already started circulating in the offices. In it, City not only proposes significant financial compensation but also a direct exchange. The goal is to get ahead of other European giants who have also shown interest in these footballers.
Barça, surprised by the magnitude of the offer
Guardiola wants to renew his team for the next season. In particular, he seeks to restructure his midfield and rejuvenate the squad. The departure of several veteran pieces has accelerated this process.
A historic swap has been proposed from Manchester. City would be willing to offer Kevin de Bruyne plus two complementary players. All in exchange for two current Barça starters who have caught the Catalan coach's attention.
The offer was not well received initially. From the blaugrana club, they insist they have no intention of parting with any key pieces. Joan Laporta has been adamant in that regard.
However, Barça's financial situation forces them to listen to any proposal. And although the initial response has been negative, there are those within the club who do not rule out studying the swap. Especially if favorable conditions are achieved.
City offers De Bruyne, but also two young players
The veteran Belgian, with a contract until 2026, is no longer indisputable at City due to his constant physical problems. Guardiola believes he can still perform at a high level in another context. And he sees Barça as a place where his experience could make a difference.
Alongside him, City would put forward a midfielder under 23 and a young forward from the reserve team. The operation would be one of the most impactful of the decade if it materializes.
Hansi Flick has made it clear that he wants to keep the young core of the team. He values experience, but his bet is on consolidating the current block. And the two players pointed out as part of the exchange are strategic pieces of that project.
The German coach believes that Barça should build on the already consolidated talent in the squad. Accepting the swap would mean breaking with that growth line. Therefore, his stance is one of initial rejection.
Guardiola wants to take...
Yes, the players Manchester City wants are Dani Olmo and Gavi. The first, newly arrived and essential in Flick's scheme. The second, an emblem of the youth academy and a symbol of the new generation.
Both represent the present and future of Barça. Giving them up in exchange for a veteran like De Bruyne and two prospects doesn't quite fit into the blaugrana strategy. That's why the proposal has caused such a stir in the club.
Within the club, there are different opinions. Some believe that De Bruyne's experience could be key to accelerating the conquest of titles. Others consider that losing two of the most promising players would mortgage the future of the project.
Deco has been one of the firmest in defending the continuity of both. But in the summer, anything can happen, especially if City insists with an even more attractive proposal.
For now, Laporta and Flick are aligned: neither Dani Olmo nor Gavi are for sale. The club appreciates the interest and the value of the offer, but they do not want to touch the base they are building. And even less if it means sacrificing the young soul of the team.
Guardiola has not said his last word. From England, they believe he can still improve his proposal. But in Can Barça, at least for now, the message is clear: this time, Pep will not fish at Camp Nou.