Manchester City are pursuing Atletico Madrid defensive midfielder Rodri, according to reports in Spain.

Manager Pep Guardiola is keen on finding a long-term replacement for midfield enforcer Fernandinho and it seems the Atletico star has been identified as the ideal candidate.

Rodri only moved to Diego Simeone’s side last summer, after agreeing a €20m switch from Villarreal back in May, but the 22-year-old has quickly established himself in the first team at the Wanda Metropolitano.

This season, the Spaniard has made 39 appearances in all competitions, scoring two goals. He has also begun to play regularly at international level, having been selected to start by Luis Enrique in two of Spain’s last three matches.

Rodri is, however, unlikely to be sold on the cheap by Atletico, and it is believed that City will have to pay his €70m (£60m) release clause if they want to secure a deal for the player.