City have identified Barcelona midfielder Marc Bernal as a potential long-term option to eventually succeed Rodri, according to Diario Sport, citing ESPN.
The interest comes as City work through what’s being described as a genuine overhaul of their midfield ranks.
Both Mateo Kovacic and Nico Gonzalez are understood to have been made available, while Rodri’s own future remains unresolved amid continued — and denied — Real Madrid speculation and a post-World Cup op.
Enzo Maresca’s side are said to be assessing reinforcements with next season in mind rather than an immediate deal.
Bernal, 19, is regarded as one of Barcelona’s most important academy graduates, tasked with eventually filling the holding role left vacant since Sergio Busquets departed.
He’s earned that reputation the hard way. Ten days into his senior debut in August 2024, he ruptured his ACL against Rayo Vallecano, a serious knee injury that ruled him out for 383 days.
He returned last September, signed a contract extension to 2029 during his recovery, and made his senior Spain debut against Iraq in June this year.
Hansi Flick has shown consistent faith in Bernal since his return, and Barcelona view him as a genuine long-term successor in the pivot role — the same profile City are said to be scouting him for, whether or not Rodri eventually moves on.
It’s worth stressing this sits at an early stage. There’s no indication of contact, a valuation, or advanced interest — just City’s name entering the conversation around a player several clubs are likely to be watching given his profile and recent history.
