Manchester City are considering another potential midfield exit as Enzo Maresca works to reshape his squad ahead of the new season.
The Catalan club finalised the acquisition of City midfielder Rodri earlier this week, and another player from the same department could be departing the Etihad Stadium in the coming weeks.
Newcastle United have engaged in discussions with Manchester City regarding a possible move for midfielder Nico Gonzalez. The Magpies are seeking to address gaps in their central areas following the departures of Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes from St James’ Park.
Sources indicate Newcastle have held initial discussions with City over the Spanish international, alongside other candidates. Nico made 41 appearances for the club last term, but started just two matches after the turn of the year, with the final league game seeing him handed a start as Pep Guardiola rested several regulars.
The 24-year-old arrived from Porto to provide cover after Rodri suffered an ACL injury that campaign, with Guardiola’s squad stretched thin in midfield. The former Spain under-21 player proved unable to match the influence of Ballon d’Or recipient Rodri, operating instead as a box-to-box operator rather than the deep-lying playmaker role his compatriot occupies.
Despite limited opportunities last season following his £52million arrival in January 2025, Nico previously insisted he was content at the Etihad. He stated he had no complaints about his lack of playing time, indicating the club also wished to retain him. When questioned about his future, he explained that no player possesses an automatic starting berth and everyone must continue working hard to maintain their position in a squad competing for major honours.
The former Barcelona academy graduate featured 37 times for the Blaugrana’s senior side during the 2021-22 campaign.
Newcastle’s interest arrives after Rodri’s move to Barcelona was officially confirmed. Nico contributed to City’s run to the FA Cup final, netting a late winner against Southampton in the semi-final, though he was omitted from the lineup for the showpiece itself.
When reflecting on missing the final, Nico suggested he had no reservations, noting his performances when selected demonstrated his abilities and expressing that collective success brought him satisfaction regardless of his personal involvement.
Reports suggest Newcastle believe they can make effective use of Nico’s qualities by providing him with consistent first-team football after the high-profile exits of Tonali and Guimaraes.