Manchester City are no strangers to game-changing, extortionate and sometimes controversial transfer deals, but recent reports emerging from Spain suggest they are lining up a deal which would leave Europe's giants reeling with envy.

Txiki Begiristain has one mission and one mission only at this moment in time: find a long-term replacement for Fernandinho. That's easier said than done - as City have been forced to understand.

Target identified, negotiations effectively closed and relentless rumours all but quashed. But no, City's dream successor, Jorginho, performed a transfer u-turn in light of Maurizio Sarri's appointment at Chelsea.

Back to square one for the champions, but the summer disappointment could ultimately prove to be a blessing in disguise for everyone involved with the Citizens.

Indeed, City now have the opportunity to start their search from scratch and identify talents with a longer shelf life and, according to a recent report from Spanish media outlet Mundo Deportivo, they have identified Ajax's Frenkie de Jong as the man to end their hunt for a new midfield lynchpin.

The report claims that Ajax have received a 'mysterious' 70 million euro offer for De Jong and Manchester City are believed to be the club behind the whopping bid.

That City are reportedly behind the transfer bid should give the supporters huge encouragement about their pursuit of a new midfielder, as the Holland international is one of, if not the most promising prodigy in Europe right now.

A product of the internationally-renowned and immensely prestigious Ajax academy, the 21-year-old is a deep-lying midfielder with all of the attributes Guardiola demands from his central midfielders: a tireless engine, forward-thinking dynamism, strong positioning sense, exuberant in his pursuit of possession and an extensive range of passing.

On paper, he is tailor-made for Guardiola's well-oiled machine and City's interest is certainly well placed.

With Barcelona expected to rival the Premier League champions for his signature it will undoubtedly be a huge task for Begirisitan to get a deal over the line but, if he manages to secure the jewel in Ajax's crown, it will be a colossal coup for the club.

Man City fans - thoughts? Let us know below!