With deadline day approaching, Manchester City are now reportedly eyeing a move to hijack Liverpool's pursuit of a defensive reinforcement that John Stones once dubbed "great".
Man City commence Donnarumma talks
It could be a busy week for the Citizens, who were returned to reality by Tottenham Hotspur in typical fashion on Saturday afternoon. Reports are indicating that several moves could still take place, both when it comes to incomings and outgoings, with Gianluigi Donnarumma just one name that could be on the way before the end of the month.
As reported by Fabrizio Romano, Manchester City have now agreed personal terms with the Italian and opened negotiations with Paris Saint-Germain over a deal worth less than their initial €50m (£43m) asking price.
The impressive shot-stopper played a starring role for the French club last season as they secured a historic treble which included a dominant Champions League win.
Whilst Donnarumma needs little introduction, replacing Ederson will be no easy task. The Brazilian is reportedly edging closer and closer towards a late switch to Galatasaray, having so far lost out on a place in Pep Guardiola's side to the young James Trafford.
He may not be the only one to depart, either. Manuel Akanji was also left out against Tottenham at the weekend as reports continue to arrive that he could join Galatasaray alongside Ederson.
Alas, like in the case of their goalkeeper, City have a backup plan in mind if the Swiss international decides to depart and it's one that could reportedly leave Liverpool scrambling for options.
Man City now eyeing Guehi hijack
As reported by The Daily Star, Manchester City are now eyeing a late hijack to sign Marc Guehi ahead of Liverpool if both Nathan Ake and Akanji leave this month.
Marc Guehi lifts the Community Shield with Crystal Palace
Marc Guehi lifts the Community Shield with Crystal Palace
The Crystal Palace defender, who won with Palace at the Etihad in 2021, looked likely to join Liverpool in the event of his departure this summer, but amid the Reds' reluctance to meet the defender's £35m asking price, the door has seemingly been left ajar for City to swoop in.
The deal is certainly there to be done for the England international too. With the defender into the final year of his Selhurst Park contract, chairman Steve Parish recently told reporters: "If Marc wants to sign a contract, he can stay. If he doesn’t, then we have to look at it. It’s a difficult situation."
PL stats P90 24/25 Guehi Akanji
Minutes 3,059 2,014
Tackles Won 1 0.54
Ball Recoveries 4.29 4.60
Successful Aerial Duels 2 1.34
A player who Stones described as "great" during England's Euro 2024 campaign last summer, it's clear to see why those at the Etihad have already earmarked Guehi as a late target should others depart this month.