Ousmane Dembele was the latest name added to the suggested City shopping list in Tuesday’s Media Watch and the story has developed further this morning.
The Daily Star question yesterday’s rumours, but believe the Blues are keeping a watchful eye on the Borussia Dortmund man.
Jeremy Cross writes: “Reports claiming the France ace had dinner with Guardiola and a tour of the Etihad complex are wide of the mark.
“But Guardiola has still been keeping close tabs on Dembele with a view to adding him to his squad this summer.
“Starsport understands that while Guardiola likes Dembele, he is not prepared to get involved in a Dutch auction with the likes of Barca and PSG.”
It’s a similar story at Goal, who’ve penned a special report on the Frenchman, which suggests the future of compatriot Kylian Mbappe would impact City’s thoughts.
Sam Lee reports: “The 18-year-old [Mbappe] is weighing up a new contract at Monaco as well as a serious offer from Real Madrid, who are favourites to sign him despite interest from other big European clubs.
“City would retain their interest in Mbappe and could launch a fresh bid next summer if he were to stay in France for one more season, but Dembele has emerged as an alternative option for the upcoming campaign.
“Guardiola and key members of his technical staff are huge admirers of the wideman, who only joined Dortmund last May.”
On the much talked about full-back front, Ryan Bertrand is the name which returns to the top of the rumoured pile, according to the Mirror.
“Pep Guardiola is making fresh moves for Southampton’s England defender Ryan Bertrand,” says Chief Football Writer, John Cross.
“Guardiola has made signing new full-backs his No1 priority, and has focused his attentions on the 27-year-old.
“Left-back Bertrand is ready to quit St Mary’s this summer to further his career, and City are in pole position to sign him.
“The former Chelsea starlet believes a transfer to a club playing Champions League football next season can boost his chances in the fight for a starting spot at the 2018 World Cup.”
Meanwhile, the Daily Mail claim City are near to completing the acquisition of a Spanish starlet.
Barcelona’s Eric Garcia is the teenager in question and Simon Jones has the story.
“Sportsmail reported City’s interest in the young defender earlier this month and terms are now close to being agreed.
“Garcia is a stylish centre back represented by Carles Puyol and Ivan de la Pena.
“It is understood the 16-year-old, who is regarded as one of the most promising talents at La Masia, will cost around £1.6million.”
