Manchester City are reportedly eyeing-up a move for Torino star Samuele Ricci in January as a replacement for the injured Rodri who has been ruled out for the rest of the season with an anterior cruciate ligament injury.

The news of Rodri’s injury came as a major blow to the Citizens whose Premier League title defence will face a challenge given that the team also has Kevin De Bruyne, Oscar Bobb and Nathan Ake on the treatment table.

The Spanish international suffered the injury in the first half against Arsenal in the 2-2 draw last weekend before tempers flared at the Etihad Stadium at the final whistle.

The 28-year-old has been integral to their success over the recent years, but City are short of options in the defensive midfield area after sending Kalvin Philips on loan to newly-promoted Ipswich Town in August.

Mateo Kovacic will fill in the role but he’s more attack-minded than Rodri, who offers defensive solidity, but also popped up with crucial match-winning goals, including the all-important lone goal in the Champions League final against Inter Milan in 2023.

Ricci, 23, has been pivotal to Serie A table-topping Torino after five games. The Italy international, who boasts of four caps, came through the youth ranks at Empoli before signing with Torino in 2022.

He is considered the best deep-lying playmaker currently and his versatility is an asset that is attractive to the City scouts.

His range of passing is among the top qualities he possesses. Ricci is also a tough tackler, while his physicality makes him a perfect fit for the Premier League.

According to a report, Ricci is valued at around 30 million pounds and the attraction to play in the Premier League could tempt the player move to England should Pep Guardiola approve the move

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