Atletico Madrid midfielder closes in Manchester City move

Manchester City are close to agreeing personal terms with Atletico Madrid midfielder Rodrigo, claims AS.

Rodrigo has emerged as City’s top transfer target this summer, as Pep Guardiola finally seeks a long-term replacement for Fernandinho.

Guardiola has previously missed out on Fred and Jorginho but is determined to sign a new central midfielder before next season.

Rodrigo only re-signed for Atletico last summer but is now leaning towards leaving the Spanish side.

The 22-year-old has been billed as Sergio Busquets’ successor for the Spanish national team and City will face competition for his signature.

Diego Simeone’s side are bracing themselves for a testing summer with Antoine Griezmann also on the verge of leaving.

Atletico confirmed this week that Griezmann wants to leave at the end of the season, with Barcelona expected to sign the 2018 World Cup winner.

In fact, Griezmann (7.31) and Rodrigo (7.23) are Atletico’s two highest WhoScored rated players in La Liga this season, while Saul (7.17) is third and could also leave this summer.