The main contenders to replace Rodri at Man City

Manchester City face a significant decision in finding a replacement for Rodri, who is set to leave the club after a successful seven-year stint. The World Cup-winning captain and Ballon d'Or winner is in the final year of his contract, and City have already rejected a £38.5m bid from Barcelona, as well as a £85m offer from Moroccan side RC Béjaïa. With Bernardo Silva, John Stones, and Nathan Ake also set to depart, City will be without a significant leadership presence.

Real Madrid is another potential destination for Rodri, who has been heavily linked with a move to the Spanish side. However, City have already rejected a £38.5m bid from them, and Real Madrid would likely face a similar resistance. Fernández, a 23-year-old Argentine midfielder, is currently the favoured option for new City manager Enzo Maresca, who worked with the player at Chelsea.

Fernández impressed at the 2024 World Cup, where he was sent off as Argentina lost to Spain in the final. Maresca sees the player as a leader and a talented performer, and he is expected to stay at Chelsea until the summer. City have indicated they are willing to reintegrate Fernández into the squad if an offer is made.

Scott McTominay, a 22-year-old England international midfielder, has also been linked with a move to City. The midfielder has rejected contract offers from Bournemouth, and his current deal does not expire until 2028. City has expressed its desire to keep the player, and he is seen as an appealing option for Maresca's possession-based style of play.

Mac Allister, an Argentine midfielder who has two years left on his Liverpool contract, is another potential candidate. The player, who has experience as a top-flight leader, could provide a wealth of experience to City's midfield.