Manchester City have now reportedly offered Real Madrid a shock swap deal in an attempt to sign a young player that Pep Guardiola loves.
Man City targeting Real Madrid star
The big concern that Man City had in the opening weeks of the Premier League campaign was their list of goalscorers. When it wasn’t Erling Haaland, it was difficult to pinpoint just who would step up for Guardiola’s side. As we approach Christmas, however, to say that is no longer an issue would be an understatement.
Phil Foden has particularly stepped up as of late and even defenders such as Josko Gvardiol are getting in on the act, scoring twice in City’s last three Premier League games.
Full of praise for Foden after yet another excellent display on Saturday, Guardiola told reporters: “Phil is incredible.
“He is scoring a lot of goals. He came to me after the game and said he didn’t feel well today and look what happened how he runs, in behind, regain the ball. When he is in this momentum and this mood, he is a gift and a diamond. He is top.”
City have now cut Arsenal’s lead at the top of the Premier League to just two points as they look to make up for last season and get back on top in English football.
Man City now most interested in signing "pacy" £40m+ Arsenal target club chiefs love
The Citizens could get one over on their title rivals.
By
Tom Cunningham
6 days ago
With 2026 around the corner too, several rumours are beginning to surround the potential business that the Citizens could complete and that includes a shock Real Madrid star.
Reports have claimed that Man City are targeting a move to sign Arda Guler from the Spanish giants, despite Foden’s recent resurgence. The Turkish midfielder has been one of few players to benefit from Xabi Alonso’s arrival in Spain and those at the Etihad are now reportedly ready to sacrifice one of their own stars to secure his signature.
Man City offer Real Madrid shock swap deal
According to reports in Spain, Man City have now offered Rodri in a swap deal to sign Guler from Real Madrid in 2026. Guardiola is reportedly a huge fan of the 20-year-old and could bid farewell to one of his most important players to get the deal over the line.
It would undoubtedly be the most unexpected deal of the year. Rodri may still be recovering from his ACL injury, but there is still no one better in his position when he is 100%. Would Man City really sacrifice their Ballon d’Or winner?
What’s more, the question must also be asked as to whether City even need Guler? With Foden and Rayan Cherki competing for that No.10 role, finding a place in their side for the Madrid star would arguably be fairly difficult. That said, he has been billed as “the next Kevin De Bruyne” by one journalist.
Nonetheless, it is a deal that Real Madrid are not willing to take at this time, and that should come as little shock after Alonso told reporters: “With his (Guler) quality, he’s a mix between Özil and Guti.
“Guti had that vision and finesse to link play or operate closer to goal, and with Mesut I enjoyed football so much. Arda has that something special — that natural talent you can’t teach.”