When it comes to planning, few clubs in football are as good at planning for the long-term as Manchester City.
The Cityzens are at the top of the game, and they intend to remain there as long as possible.
That requires a forward-thinking strategy, particularly when it comes to replacing players and keeping the squad fresh.
That’s something they were busy doing this summer when they signed Rodri to replace Fernandinho, and it seems they may be planning to do the same next summer.
El Desmarque report that Pep Guardiola has his eye on Real Madrid midfielder Martin Ødegaard, as he searches for a replacement for David Silva.
Silva is leaving Manchester City next summer and, while the squad is full of talent, his departure will leave a big hole in the side.
Guardiola will have to find a replacement and Ødegaard is the man he wants. In fact, he has asked those in charge at the club to sign the Norwegian midfielder.
However, it’s unlikely he will get his wish, with it made clear that Real Madrid are unlikely to even consider a sale.
Florentino Pérez is said to have ‘no intention of negotiating’ a departure, particularly given his impressive performances out on loan at Real Sociedad.
El Desmarque say Ødegaard would have a market value of over €60m, although Pérez would not sell below €80m were he to agree to a sale in the first place.
