Former Manchester City full-back Michael Ball has urged the Premier League champions to sign Robin Gosens ahead of the transfer window slamming shut.

Gosens has shone since joining Italian side Atalanta in 2017, scoring 27 goals and contributing 20 assists despite featuring predominantly at left-back across 149 appearances.

The 27-year-old threw himself into the limelight with a number of stunning performances at Euro 2020, where he started all four of Germany's fixtures before being knocked out of the competition by England at the last 16 stage.

According to Spanish media outlet Sport, City are among several clubs - including Barcelona, Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan - keeping tabs on Gosens. The report suggests Atalanta would consider sanctioning an exit for Gosens if a bid in the region of £35million is lodged.

Ball believes the left-back position is a weak link in City's side, with Benjamin Mendy struggling with injuries since making the £52million move from Monaco.

The ex-City man has advised boss Pep Guardiola to fight off stiff competition for Gosens.

Speaking exclusively to The Transfer Tavern, Ball said: "He could fit right in and has got massive experience. That would be a no-brainer for me if Manchester City want to bring him in.

"He could come straight into the team, provide extra competition for the guys already there and he is also better than what they had last season.

"I think a lot of opposition teams know the full-back areas, especially on the left side, is a weak link if Manchester City have one. A guy with Gosens' experience, right in his prime, would be perfect."