Barcelona are in talks with Manchester City over a deal for centre-back Eric Garcia, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The 19-year-old is keen on a return to the Catalan giants and has reportedly turned down two moves already.
Barcelona Looking to Seal Move for Manchester City Centre-Back Eric Garcia
Desperate for Return
Garcia joined Manchester City from Barcelona in 2017 after starting his career in Barca’s La Masia academy.
The Spaniard has been slowly embedded into the first-team by Pep Guardiola, as the City boss does not want to rush his development.
After making his debut midway through the 2018/19 season, Garcia made only two more appearances in the rest of the campaign, both of which came in cup competitions.
However, Garcia then started to develop last season. He made 20 appearances in all competitions, and was arguably the first-choice defender towards the end of the season.
However, the 19-year-old has expressed a desire to return to the Nou Camp. Pep Guardiola confirmed in August that Garcia would not be extending his contract and wanted to leave the Etihad Stadium.
As a result, talks have been taking place between the two clubs ever since. According to Romano, two options remain on the table. Garcia could either join the La Liga giants for a fee in this window, or an agreement could be struck that could allow him to leave for free next summer.
How Would Eric Garcia Fit in at Barcelona?
In similar fashion to his move to Manchester, Garcia would be slowly integrated into the first-team.
The 19-year-old is likely to be a direct replacement for Gerard Pique, who at the age of 33, is edging close to retirement.
As a result, Barcelona are seeking a replacement earlier on, so they do not struggle when they do have to replace Pique. Garcia is a ball-playing centre-back, and is already used to the pressure of Champions League football.
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