Barcelona approach Manchester City again after Torres deal with Guardiola open to offers

Having failed to sign a replacement for Sergio Aguero over the summer, Manchester City’s decision to let Ferran Torres depart the club this week may come as a surprise to many. 

The Spaniard was one of only two players in the City squad, along with Gabriel Jesus, who can play as a recognised striker, with the club having failed in pursuits of Harry Kane and Robert Lewandowski over the summer.

Despite reservations about the Citizens’ goal scoring prowess without record goalscorer Aguero, Pep Guardiola’s side have scored more frequently than any other Premier League side so far.

The decision to sell Torres, who had played just four league games this season, for £49.5 million therefore seems somewhat justified, however it now appears that City will be approached by Barcelona again in the near future.

According to El Nacional via TeamTalk, Guardiola is willing to let defender Aymeric Laporte join the Spanish giants, but only if midfielder Frenkie de Jong is allowed to move in the opposite direction.

Barcelona will have to allow De Jong to join City if they want to sign Laporte

The Spanish defender is reportedly a target for Barcelona, who are on the lookout for defensive reinforcements with the likes of Samuel Umtiti set to leave the club.

Laporte was one of the best defenders in Europe during his first season in Manchester, but has since seen his playing time reduce due to the arrival of Ruben Dias and the improved form of John Stones.

The City boss is reportedly a huge admirer of Barca’s De Jong, who will reportedly be allowed to leave his current employers.

While De Jong is still regarded as one of the most talented midfielders in the world, the Catalan club have a number of young stars in similar positions, such as Pedri, and could opt to allow the Dutchman to leave to east their wage bill.

The Spanish side’s financial situation is still so dire that Torres has not actually been officially registered yet.

City are also keen to plan for Fernandinho’s departure, and view De Jong as a potential successor to his role at the base of their midfield.