Torino respond to claims Man City want rising star Samuele Ricci to replace injured Rodri

Manchester City star Rodri picked up an injury late last month during a 2-2 draw against Arsenal and the Premier League champions then confirmed the Spaniard's season was over due to a complete tear in his Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL). The eight-time Premier League winners have just not seemed the same dominant side since Rodri's injury and they are now looking at options to cover for the long-term injury.

Manchester City have been reportedly interested in Tornio's rising star Ricci over a potential move during the winter transfer window as they look towards proper profiles to replace Rodri. Torino director Vagnati has now responded to the rumours linking the holding midfielder with Pep Guardiola's side.

Speaking to Sky Italia, Vagnati said: "I won’t comment on Manchester City.

“What I can say is that we signed Ricci when he was very young and it was an important investment, we and the President believed in him and spent big money for this player.

"He believed in his work, has improved a great deal physically, he already had the vision, and I think he is capable of playing for any coach or club."

The 23-year-old has made four appearances for Italy and Luciano Spalletti has called up the young midfielder yet again for Gli Azzurri's Nations League clashes against Belgium and Israel.