Manchester City eye Barcelona talent Tommy Marqués as Rodri talks reshape midfielder’s future

Manchester City have emerged as one of several clubs interested in signing Barcelona midfielder Tommy Marqués after the teenager decided to leave Camp Nou in search of regular first-team football.

The 19-year-old had initially been expected to remain at Barcelona for the upcoming season, but the club's pursuit of Manchester City midfielder Rodri has significantly altered those plans, opening the door for Marqués to move elsewhere.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Manchester City have already held discussions over a permanent transfer for Marqués.

Rather than integrating him directly into Enzo Maresca's squad, City are reportedly considering sending the midfielder on loan to Girona as part of his development. The City Football Group club is viewed as an ideal environment for the Spaniard to gain valuable senior experience while remaining within a familiar footballing structure.

The Premier League champions see Marqués as a long-term investment rather than an immediate first-team option.

Manchester City are not alone in pursuing the Barcelona youngster.

Sporting Braga are understood to be leading the race, with manager Carlos Vicens reportedly pushing for the Portuguese club to complete a deal. Vicens has built a reputation for developing young players and believes Marqués would fit his long-term project.

Borussia Dortmund have also registered their interest. The Bundesliga club maintains a strong relationship with Barcelona following recent business between the two clubs, which could help facilitate negotiations if they decide to step up their pursuit.

Barcelona had originally planned to keep Marqués as part of their squad, particularly with Marc Casadó expected to leave on loan.

However, the club's attempts to bring Rodri back to Camp Nou have changed the picture, with Marqués now expected to depart instead. Barcelona are reportedly open to a permanent sale provided it includes a buy-back clause, allowing the club to retain control over the midfielder's long-term future.

Marqués is expected to decide his future before the transfer window closes, with Manchester City, Sporting Braga and Borussia Dortmund all monitoring the situation. Barcelona will continue working on a structure that protects the club's long-term interests, with a permanent transfer including a buy-back clause currently viewed as the most likely outcome.