Man City news: Pep Guardiola plotting move for England and Premier League midfielder

Premier League titans Manchester City have been on an awful run of form as of late, going seven matches without a win.

Ballon d’Or winner and City midfielder Rodri is expected to be out until at least the start of April with a cruciate ligament tear, an injury he picked up against Arsenal in September.

Many people have attributed the Mancunian’s downfall to losing their prized asset, with Man City now reportedly in the market for a new defensive midfielder this January.

A host of names have been linked with a move to the Etihad, including Inter Milan’s Nicolo Barella and Atalanta’s Ederson, however, one name is at the top of Pep Guardiola’s shopping list.

Soaring with the Eagles

Adam Wharton has been nothing short of a revelation for Crystal Palace since trading in Blackburn for South London last January.

The 20-year-old has been a constant in Oliver Glasner’s side since making his debut in February – even earning his first England Cap this summer in a 3-0 win over Bosnia.

The defensive midfielder has made 10 appearances in all competitions for the Eagles this season, however, he has been sidelined for just over a month with a groin issue.

If anything, his absence has solidified Palace’s resolve to keep hold of one of their brightest players, with the South Londoners hovering just above the relegation zone by goal difference.

Attracting plenty of attention

Some of the Premier League’s biggest clubs have taken note of Wharton’s impressive performances at Selhurst Park, with both Man City and Arsenal reportedly interested.

However, a move in the January transfer window seems increasingly doubtful, with City and the Gunners reluctant to splash out on big transfer fees mid-season.

A summer move looks to be the more likely option, with Guardiola and Mikel Arteta potentially having to play the long game to get their man.

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