Manchester City are reportedly preparing to intensify their interest in Barcelona's Sergi Roberto.

Citizens boss Pep Guardiola is believed to be a firm admirer of the Spain international, who has spent his entire professional career with Barca, making 281 appearances in all competitions.

Roberto has again been a key player for his Catalan club during the 2019-20 campaign, making 37 outings, largely featuring as a right-back once again.

According to Sport, Guardiola has identified the 28-year-old as the ideal player to boost his options at full-back, and the Premier League giants are 'willing to pay a high valuation' for him.

The report, though, claims that Barca are determined to resist any interest in the Spaniard as they want to move Nelson Semedo on ahead of the 2020-21 campaign.

Roberto's current deal at Camp Nou is due to expire in June 2022, and it is alleged that City are prepared to improve his wages if he does arrive at the Etihad Stadium.