Manchester City have reportedly identified Real Madrid man Federico Valverde as a possible Rodri replacement.
The Citizens have made a poor start to the 2024-25 campaign by their own high standards, missing the presence of their Ballon d'Or-winning midfielder.
A worrying losing run extended to four matches across all competitions on Saturday evening, when Man City were defeated 2-1 at the home of Brighton & Hove Albion.
Erling Haaland showed plenty of determination to blast the visitors ahead in the first period, although a second-half Seagulls comeback changed the destination of the points.
For the first time in his managerial career, Pep Guardiola is enduring a four-game losing streak, with his side trailing Liverpool in the Premier League table.
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Man City eyeing Real Madrid star Valverde?
According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, out-of-form Manchester City have added a Champions League winner to their potential list of Rodri replacements.
The report claims that the Citizens are keen on securing the services of Real Madrid and Uruguay stalwart Valverde during the January transfer window.
It is understood that Man City are desperate to bolster their midfield ranks, with the 26-year-old's versatility catching the eye of the Premier League champions.
That being said, Carlo Ancelotti's men recently agreed a new contract with Valverde, who will be difficult to lure away from Santiago Bernabeu.
It is believed that Real Madrid could reject any offers for the 65-time international, meaning that the Citizens might be forced to look elsewhere for their Rodri replacement.
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Keep calm and carry on
Losing four straight matches is an alien concept to Manchester City during the Guardiola era, although everyone associated with the club must remain relaxed.
With the mid-season window not opening for over a month, the Citizens will need to keep calm and carry on without a perfect substitute for Rodri.
Guardiola's troops face a pair of home contests following the international break, with Tottenham Hotspur and Feyenoord visiting the Etihad in the Premier League and Champions League respectively.
The first day of December will bring a potentially season-deciding fixture for Man City, who will travel to Anfield to face Arne Slot's Liverpool.
Carter White
