Manchester City are intensifying their search for midfield reinforcements as Rodri edges closer to completing a move to Barcelona worth £65.4 million.
The Spanish midfielder spent seven years at the Etihad Stadium, establishing himself as one of the finest defensive midfielders in world football during that time.
Rodri’s departure leaves a significant void at the heart of Pep Guardiola’s side, with the club having relied heavily on his presence in some of their most successful seasons.
During his time at City, Rodri was part of a squad that lifted 11 major trophies, underlining just how central he was to their domestic and European dominance.
Work has been ongoing behind the scenes for months to identify a suitable long-term replacement, and Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton has now emerged as a serious target.
Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that City scouts have been keeping close tabs on the Palace midfielder and believe he would be a strong fit.
Wharton has impressed enormously since joining Crystal Palace in 2024, playing a key role as the Eagles secured FA Cup and Conference League glory.
The 22-year-old’s performances have attracted significant interest from across Europe, with City now understood to be among the clubs monitoring his situation most closely.
However, Crystal Palace have made their position clear, placing a minimum valuation of €115 million on Wharton following the departure of Eberechi Eze from Selhurst Park.
The South London club are unwilling to lose another key player so soon after selling Eze, meaning any interested party will face a tough negotiation to secure his services.
City are also believed to be targeting other midfield reinforcements this transfer window, suggesting they intend to overhaul that area of the squad significantly.
Whether Wharton becomes their primary acquisition or one of several additions remains to be seen, but his profile clearly fits what Guardiola is looking for going forward.
