Manchester City winger Patrick Roberts is set to fly to the USA for the club’s pre-season tour this summer, according to the Manchester Evening News.
The newspaper claim that City boss Pep Guardiola is prepared to take a closer look at his highly-rated 20-year-old star ahead of the new season, before making a decision upon his long-term future.
Roberts returned to the club this summer following an 18-month loan spell with Scottish giants Celtic, where he earned regular first-team opportunities and made a positive impression.
The England youngster made 60 appearances in all competitions during his time at Parkhead, contributing 17 goals and 21 assists, and manager Brendan Rodgers has made it no secret his desire to extend the attacker’s stay at the club.
But while he could face tough competition for his signature this summer, his potential pre-season trip could prove another significant blow to their ambitions.
The Daily Record claim that Premier League new boys Huddersfield are prepared to rival Celtic for Roberts, and that he is also on the radar of French Ligue 1 outfit Nice.
However, Celtic could also face fierce competition from Roberts’ current club Manchester City, with Guardiola ready to hand him an opportunity to prove his worth to the first-team squad.
Another loan move has been speculated for Roberts after it was confirmed that Man City were set to sign AS Monaco attacker Bernardo Silva on July 1, leaving Roberts further down the pecking order for a starting spot.
Roberts will also have to compete with City’s current options Raheem Sterling, David Silva and Kevin De Bruyne, but he could still be offered an important role in the side.