Man City 'tracking' potential Rodri replacement but face competition from Liverpool to sign him

Manchester City are 'tracking' a star midfielder in what could be their long-term replacement for Rodri.

Man City's dominance can be attributed to Rodri, who has excelled in the middle of the park since his transfer from Atletico Madrid in the summer of 2019.

He's made that position his own, helping his side to Premier League and Champions League glory over the years.

The 28-year-old is in his sixth season at the Etihad, with a stunning move away rumoured.

If Rodri does end up leaving the club, then it appears Man City have set their sights on his replacement.

According to The Daily Mail, Man City are now 'tracking' Adam Wharton's progress at Crystal Palace with a view to a potential move next summer.

But Pep Guardiola faces stiff competition from Liverpool, who are also admirers of Wharton.

Palace snapped up the 20-year-old during the winter transfer window earlier this year.

He joined the Premier League side from Blackburn Rovers in a deal worth £22 million.

The budding midfielder has since impressed for Palace, earning a call-up to England's Euro 2024 squad.

Adam Wharton in action for Crystal Palace. Image: Getty

Wharton has starred under Oliver Glasner, who has spoken out about his fears amid injury issues.

Glasner said: "Adam has had an unbelievable development here. Since he came back from the Euros he has had some issues with his body. Not big issues but a little bit here, a little bit there. It's also why we gave him a break against Norwich. He's not in his top fitness level and can't be, he's been training with us for three weeks but hasn't been able to do every single training.

"It's about load management and how much we can do to avoid making his problems worse and what does he need to improve his fitness levels. It's also important to understand what happens in the life of a 20-year-old boy - eight months ago he played for Blackburn in the Championship.

"Then he was on the bench trying to win the Euros final after playing an unbelievable season. There was so much in his mind and the mind always influences the body. He's a great player, he's a great guy and he will be back in his best shape quickly, everybody can see how much he gives to our squad with his passing."