Pep Guardiola hasn't finished the season and is already planning the next one. The Santpedor coach wants Manchester City to continue dominating in England and Europe. To achieve this, he demands key reinforcements, and once again, FC Barcelona appears on his list.
There are several positions where Guardiola wants to incorporate young and competitive talent. There is one position he has become obsessed with: the left-back. The focus, once again, points toward Camp Nou.
Pedri: Flick's Untouchable
Among the first names that appeared as potential targets for City was Pedri. The Canary Islands midfielder has captivated Guardiola for some time, and his profile would fit perfectly into the citizen system. Vision, composure, game reading... he has it all.
But Barça didn't waste a second in blocking any approach. Pedri is untouchable, as the board has conveyed. Flick counts on him as one of the cornerstones of the future.
Another Barça player who has sparked City's interest is Fermín López. His breakthrough this season has been remarkable, bringing energy, presence, and character to the midfield. Guardiola values his versatile profile and maturity despite his youth.
However, just like with Pedri, Flick has been adamant. The German coach has demanded his continuity and won't accept his departure under any circumstances. The club's commitment to Fermín is total.
Fabrizio Romano Confirms the Real Target
This is where the real alarm goes off at Barça. According to Fabrizio Romano, Manchester City has identified their true target for this summer. It's not Pedri, nor Fermín... it's another academy player who has an essential role in the starting eleven.
We're talking about a profile that Guardiola sees as ideal for his system: fast, technical, with range, and still room for growth. The English press even talks about an offer close to 100 million euros. A figure that, although staggering, wouldn't be outlandish for those at Etihad.
Yes, the player Pep really wants is Alejandro Balde. The Barça left-back has earned his spot through solid performances and a projection that doesn't go unnoticed. At just 21 years old, he is already one of the most desired names in Europe.
Guardiola believes he would be the ideal heir to Zinchenko in his system. He can play as a pure full-back, as an interior, or even project as a false winger. His versatility and mentality fit City's philosophy to a tee.
Laporta Resists, but the Pressure Increases
At Camp Nou, the official stance is firm: Balde is not for sale. Joan Laporta trusts him as the owner of the left flank of the future. But the economy is tight, and a nine-figure offer could change everything.
For now, Flick also counts on him as a structural piece. But if the player is tempted by Guardiola and City puts the money on the table, everything gets complicated. Summer hasn't started yet, but Pep has already activated the bomb.