Nico Gonzalez has emerged as Manchester City’s primary target in midfield.
Manchester City were torn to shreds in the middle of the park as they shipped three goals during the final half an hour of their 5-1 mauling at the hands of Arsenal which emphasised why they are interested in the Porto midfielder in the first place.
The positive for the Sky Blues is that Porto’s Gonzalez is keen to join Manchester City on deadline day — as he could slot straight into their side and emerge as their much-needed replacement for the injured Rodri.
Manchester City were considering signing Gonzalez for £50 million, which is the value of his release clause.
Pep Guardiola is keen on a new midfield signing as they still lack a defensive midfielder in their ranks.
Porto tell Man City to pay £50 million for Nico Gonzalez
However, Fabrizio Romano has revealed that City made “direct contact” once again with Porto “this morning” to sign Gonzalez, they were informed that a deal is only possible if they pay €60 million (£50 million) to sign him.
The Italian journalist also mentioned that there have been “no issues” over agreeing personal terms to sign Gonzalez.
Unless Pep Guardiola’s side pay the big bucks, it seems unlikely that Porto will change their stance about selling Gonzalez — who is a key player for them.
Manchester City have enquired about sign Douglas Luiz on loan from Juventus as well as it seems like their season could further fall off the cliff unless they add solidity to their midfield.
But the English juggernaut’s interest seems to be cooled, with Manchester United reportedly eyeing Luiz now.
Man City must sign Nico Gonzalez on deadline day
With Jacob Wright looking set to join Swansea City on loan as well, Gonzalez is Manchester City’s only hope of fielding a natural sitting midfielder unless they choose not to sign him.
A player who was routinely linked with City in Martin Zubimendi looks set to sign for Arsenal as well.
Manchester City’s dream midfield signing was Bruno Guimaraes, who has shown no signs of leaving Newcastle United until the end of the ongoing season.
As a result, City have no choice but to sign Gonzalez, who is having a terrific season at Porto.
Capable of anchoring a midfield and playing further forward, the Spaniard could potentially form a brilliant partnership once Rodri returns to full fitness while being ready to perform instantly as well.
Related Topics