Manchester City have been on the trail of Barcelona academy midfielder Ilaix Moriba in the past few months.
Two days ago, we covered a report from Sport, who claimed the Premier League winners are one of the ‘strongest teams’ chasing the 15-year-old and believe they can get the deal over the line this month.
This is because the player will turn 16 years of age on Saturday and will then be eligible to sign a contract with any of the clubs following him. It was thought City were awaiting his arrival on the following Sunday.
Thursday’s edition of Mundo Deportivo has an update about the teenager as they mention he has an offer from Pep Guardiola’s side and Juventus, who are also interested in the youngster.
After the last meeting with the representative, the Catalan newspaper mentions the Blaugrana are ‘optimistic’ he will sign his first professional contract with Barca, although they are still working on finishing the agreement. 
The advantage for the La Liga winners is that Ilaix sees the latest proposal from Barcelona with good eyes.
This is being presented as Barca snatching their player back from the clutches of Manchester City.
