AC Milan forward Rafael Leao in action
Manchester City have set their sights on another forward amid rumours they are closing in on a deal to sign Borussia Dortmund star Erling Haaland, according to reports.
The Lowdown: Guardiola edges nearer…
Reports in recent weeks have backed City as the favourites to sign one of Europe’s most in-demand strikers.
The Times and The Athletic both say that Haaland has given his green-light to join the Premier League champions this summer meanwhile Sky Sports reporter Gianluca Di Marzio claims that a deal is imminent.
Going by this plethora of claims, it appears a move to Eastlands looks extremely likely where the Norway star is concerned – potentially making the 2022/2023 season an even more exciting one for supporters.
City take on Real Madrid in their crunch Champions League semi-final second leg tonight with business for this year certainly not finished.
However, that hasn’t stopped club chiefs working ahead of time in preparation for Pep Guardiola’s final full season in charge as things stand.
The Latest: City take first steps for Leao…
Now, according to Calciomercato, City have ‘taken’ their ‘first steps’ to sign AC Milan star forward Rafael Leao pre-summer.
Indeed, despite edging nearer to Haaland and being tipped to sign an heir to Fernandinho, Etihad Stadium officials are also working on a move for the 22-year-old.
The Verdict: Get it done?
Both Raheem Sterling and Riyad Mahrez are out-of-contract in 2023 and are heading into their final years in Manchester, so it’s natural that the club are weighing potential replacements.
Depending on whether City agree extensions or let them depart, Leao would certainly be an exciting signing in place of either of Guardiola’s stars.
Lauded as ‘absolutely unplayable‘ by Italian football reporter Maxi Angelo, Milan allegedly value the electric starlet at around €70-80 million (£59m-£67m).
Still very young and already proven in Serie A, averaging the highest individual match rating in Milan’s squad domestically, he’s also their top goal-scorer and completes an impressive three take-ons per 90 – more than any City player (WhoScored).
Going by his plaudits, quality and price tag – Leao could well be the man to succeed Mahrez or Sterling depending on developments – especially considering Guardiola is allegedly ‘in love‘ with the player.
In other news: £101 million ‘big name’ sets his sights on joining City, turns to super agent for help…find out more here.
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