AGENCIES
LONDON
Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola appears to have conceded defeat in his concerted effort to sign Juventus centre-back Leonardo Bonucci.
Following this disappointment the former Barcelona and Bayern Munich boss has identified his second-choice target to strengthen the Citizens' back line - Atletico Madrid defender Lucas Hernandez. The Frenchman, whom the Bianconeri admire too, is regarded as a top prospect in European football, having firmly established himself in the Atletico team towards the end of last season.
Hernandez was particularly impressive throughout the Rojiblancos' 3-2 aggregate defeat of Barcelona in the Champions League quarter-finals, playing the full 180 minutes of the tie. It appears his exploits have not gone unnoticed, with English tabloid 'The Sun' reporting that Manchester City are prepared to activate the €20 million release clause in his contract to secure his signature.
In Guardiola's eyes this will most likely represent better value for money than the €60m City were reportedly willing to pay to sign the 29-year-old Bonucci.
Chelsea move for Mario
After helping Portugal to Euro 2016 triumph, Joao Mario could be set for a move to Chelsea after the Premier League club moved ahead of Inter in the race to sign the Sporting midfielder.
Antonio Conte’s side are now in pole position to sign the Portugal international “ as they look to strengthen ahead of a title challenge “ with the Premier League club able to offer more money than the Nerazzurri. Stamford Bridge officials are ready to offer the Portuguese club close to €60 million, according to the Sun, after impressive performances which saw his nation win their first major trophy.
The 23-year-old missed out on the league title with Sporting, finishing two points behind Benfica “ but with six goals in 33 league appearances, a host of European clubs have announced their interest in the tireless midfielder.
Inter had almost conceded defeat in their battle to sign Joao Mario, after Inter director Piero Ausilio played down rumours over the Nerazzurri’s interest, citing the high cost of the 23-year-old as being a big factor. Mario played a part in every fixture for the Selecao at the Euro 2016, which saw an Eder goal clinch the European Championship for the first time in Portugal’s history.
