Man City 'eye Raphinha as Riyad Mahrez replacement' and more transfer rumours - Lejit Reporters
The Manchester City winger is thought to have accepted an offer from Saudi side Al-Ahli, with Pep Guardiola potentially in the market for a replacement.
Manchester City have identified Raphinha as a potential replacement for Riyad Mahrez, according to reports.
Riyad Mahrez is said to have already agreed personal terms on a move to Al-Ahli, becoming the latest high-profile player to be courted by the Saudi Arabian league. The proposal is expected to be around £43million per year, which is a significant increase in his current terms.
Manchester City have agreed that Mahrez did not have to travel to the Fae East on their pre-season tour today, after receiving an acceptable offer of up to £30m. And French outlet Foot Mercato reports that they could swoop for Raphinha.
The 26-year-old only joined Barcelona for £57m last summer, having attracted plenty of interest with two brilliant seasons in the Premier League with Leeds United. But eight goals and eight assists was an underwhelming return in his debut campaign, and Xavi's side could sell up to ease financial concerns.
The report adds that Barcelona need to raise around £52m by August 31 in order to register several players who signed last year and see the Brazilian as a route to raising those funds.
Elsewhere, 90min reports that Josko Gvardiol is awaiting the green light from RB Leipzig as he prepares to fly to the UK for his City medical.
Discussions between the two clubs are said to be progressing as Guardiola works to land his second major signing of the summer, with Mateo Kovacic joining from Chelsea last month. Leipzig want to make the 21-year-old the most expensive defender in history, demanding a fee of more than €100m.
The report adds that City would be happy to meet that valuation, but discussions continue as to how the deal will be structured. Personal terms have already been agreed with the centre-back, who is now just waiting to travel and complete his medical.
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