If you’re a fan of transfer gossip in particular, you’re in the right place! So, let’s see what’s being said, shall we?
Well, the main headline derives from the Manchester Evening News, who assert the Blues are interested in capturing the services of Marquinhos.
According to Simon Bajkowski: “Central defence looks like being a key area to strengthen for new coach Pep Guardiola , with Martin Demichelis expected to move on, Eliaquim Mangala told he can and doubts over whether Vincent Kompany and Nicolas Otamendi can hold down a regular place in the starting XI.
“The former Barcelona manager is already seeking to address the area, with Athletic’s Aymeric Laporte and Everton’s John Stones targeted to strengthen the back line and inject some youth into the team.
“UOL Esporte claim that City are one of several clubs - with United, Chelsea and Barcelona also mentioned - in talks to sign Marquinhos from PSG.
Simon Bajkowski
Manchester Evening News
“The Brazilan defender featured against the Blues at the Etihad in the Champions League quarter-finals last season but has found opportunities in the French capital limited by the presence of big money buys David Luiz and Thiago Silva.”
Elsewhere, Goal.com report Guardiola is stepping up his plans for his new Club, although he hasn’t arrived yet.
Sam Lee writes: “He is not expected to arrive in Manchester until around July 1 - the original start date on his three-year contract - but as of Wednesday he will be in close contact with sporting director Txiki Begiristain in a bid to smoothen his transition.
“The progress of ongoing transfer negotiations, changes to the club’s training ground - reportedly including the re-cutting of pitches to aid his specific coaching methods - and the management of the current squad will all be monitored.
“It can also be revealed that Guardiola will retain the services of Jesus Navas and Bacary Sagna for next season.
“Both men had been among several members of the playing staff to be considered candidates for a summer departure.
“But sources have told Goal that Guardiola sees Navas and Sagna as useful options for his first season in England.”
Goal.com
In other news, switching focus to international news, Belgium manager Marc Wilmots believes the Red Devils may have to start planning for a future without Vincent Kompany.
Quoted in an article on Four Four Two‘s website, he states: “We need time to establish this defence. An understanding will come, especially with the high pressing we tried.
“We had Kompany and Van Buyten before, we must now build a new central defensive pairing for the future of the [Red] Devils.”
