Pep Guardiola doesn't want to be left behind. After a demanding season in the Premier League and in Europe, the Catalan coach is already working to strengthen his squad for the next season. As is customary, he has once again looked toward Barcelona.
Manchester City is clear that they want to strengthen several positions. One of them is key: the left-back. The search has begun, and the eyes are set on Camp Nou.
Pedri, the Great Impossible Dream
One of the first names that appeared on the table was Pedri. The Canarian midfielder is one of the great gems of Spanish soccer. Talent, vision of the game, and maturity at just 21 years old, Pep loves him, he wants him, but there's a problem: Pedri is untouchable.
From Barça, they have been adamant, there is no price, there is no negotiation. Not even a call that sounds friendly. Pedri is the present and future of the club, Hansi Flick counts on him as a key piece of his new project.
Fermin López, the New Pearl That Also Appeals
Another name that has come up in recent days is Fermin López. The young midfielder has been one of Barça's revelations this season. Intensity, goal, and an overwhelming personality.
Guardiola has him on the radar, however, here too he has hit a wall. Hansi Flick has expressly requested that he stays. He considers him a differential player, at least for now, Fermin is also untouchable.
The Real Target: Alejandro Balde
Here is where the name that most worries Barça appears. Alejandro Balde. The left-back, fast and with projection, is on City's radar, according to Fabrizio Romano, they are looking for a left-back this summer.
The English press has released a figure that has shaken the foundations of Can Barça: 100 million euros. An offer that could come this summer if City doesn't find another profile that convinces them.
Guardiola wants him, he knows that Balde would fit like a glove in his scheme. Young, offensive, and capable of playing at different heights on the field. Moreover, Barça is not going through its best economic moment and, although they don't want to sell him, that figure could make them hesitate.
Barça Prepares to Resist
For now, the message from Barcelona is clear: not for sale. Balde is one of the most promising players on the team and it is trusted that he will be the owner of the left-back for many years. But money, when it presses, changes everything.
If City puts the 100 million on the table, the pressure will be maximum. Especially if the player looks favorably on working with Guardiola. Hot weeks are coming, and Pep has already lit the fuse.