Manchester City are interested in signing Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong, according to a report from The Times. 

The lowdown: End of an era

This comes following the revelation that defensive midfield stalwart Fernandinho will be leaving the Etihad at the end of the season.

Out of contract in July, the 37-year-old announced he will move onto pastures new in the summer, bringing an end to a memorable nine-year affinity with the club in the process.

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Now, it appears that the Citizens have wasted little time in seeking out a replacement...

The latest: De Jong 'top' priority

As per The Times, City are eyeing De Jong as a successor to the experienced Brazilian holding midfielder.

It's claimed that the 24-year-old is the 'top' priority for Pep Guardiola and it seems Txiki Begiristain will not be messing around as the manager wants three new signings this transfer window - they made just one last summer.

The report states that De Jong - who was recently hailed as 'extraordinary' by Xavi - is one of 'several targets' for City, and Barcelona could be willing to sanction the sale should bids of £60million be forthcoming.

The verdict: No brainer

This season has been a transitional one at Camp Nou for the most part, however, ex-Ajax man De Jong has still managed to impress with four goals and five assists in 44 appearances across all competitions.

When using the FBref comparison tool, the Dutchman shares stylistic similarities to current City star Ilkay Gundogan and Ballon D'Or winner Luka Modric, suggesting a willingness to create as well as perform the defensive work.

Taking all of this into account, signing the 40-cap Holland ace would be a superb piece of business from Txiki as the club continue to strive for that elusive Champions League trophy.

In other news: £101m ‘big name’ sets his sights on joining Man City, turns to super agent for help…find out more here.