Player out of training until future sorted, Manchester City in tussle to sign him quickly

Three days ago, Sport reported that Manchester City and Juventus are the ‘strongest sides’ vying to sign Ilaix Moriba from Barcelona.

On Thursday, we covered claims from Mundo Deportivo that the La Liga winners have not given up on retaining the midfielder, who will turn 16 years of age on Saturday.

Confidence was back, and Barca were set to win the day.

Sport now agree, to some extent, and on Friday they say Pep Guardiola’s side were expected to close all the details for him on Sunday, but the counter offer from the Spanish champions has changed everything.

Last week, the Catalan club made an offer so that they can keep the youngster in their famous academy, while his agent came back with another proposal this Tuesday and Barca have asked for a few days to make a decision.

If the Blaugrana accept the proposal, then Ilaix will continue with Barcelona, otherwise he is likely to go elsewhere with Manchester City leading the race.

The youngster didn’t train on Thursday and won’t return to training until the situation is resolved.

That may not be a good sign for Barca.