Manchester City Eye Life After De Bruyne – Pep Guardiola Targets Xavi Simons, With Barcelona Star as Backup
With Kevin De Bruyne’s career entering its final chapters due to ongoing injury struggles, Manchester City is already planning for a future without their iconic playmaker. Pep Guardiola is on the hunt for a new midfield star who can carry forward the Belgian’s legacy—and he has two names at the top of his wishlist.
Top Target: Xavi Simons
City’s primary focus is RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons. The Dutch sensation has impressed in the Bundesliga with his creativity, sharp vision, and attacking flair—traits that make him an ideal successor to De Bruyne in Guardiola’s system. Reports suggest City is ready to offer €110 million to bring him to the Etihad, seeing him as a crucial part of the club’s next era.
However, Leipzig are determined to keep their star, and with heavy interest from PSG and Bayern Munich as well, negotiations could get complicated.
Plan B: Barcelona’s Fermín López
Should the Simons deal fall through, Guardiola is ready to pivot to Barcelona’s rising star Fermín López. The 20-year-old midfielder has quickly become a standout under Hansi Flick, earning praise for his goal-scoring from midfield, composure under pressure, and ability to break down defenses.
City has a history of recruiting from La Masia, and Fermín’s understanding of positional play and tactical intelligence fits Guardiola’s system perfectly.
Barcelona’s Stand: A Battle to Keep Fermín
Barça are aware of City’s growing interest and have moved to protect Fermín’s future with a contract renewal and a release clause reportedly over €100 million. Flick considers him a key part of his midfield plans and is giving him increasing responsibility.
Still, the lure of the Premier League and the opportunity to play under Guardiola could tempt the young Spaniard, putting Barcelona in a tough position should City come calling with a big offer.
Guardiola’s Midfield Vision
Pep is renowned for grooming world-class midfielders, and Fermín López fits the mold. If City can’t secure Simons, expect a strong push for Fermín, possibly making him the next La Masia product to take the leap to Manchester.
As the summer window approaches, all eyes will be on Guardiola’s next move—and whether Barcelona can hold on to one of their brightest prospects.
