Man City ready to move for £80m forward who’s “one of the best”

Manchester City are now ready to make a move for a £80m forward, having identified him as a priority target for the summer transfer window, according to a report.

City’s summer transfer plans taking shape

Man City have fallen short of their usual lofty standards in the 2024-25 campaign, but they still have an opportunity to make a success out of the campaign, with an FA Cup triumph still on the cards, while they remain in a strong position to qualify for the Champions League.

That said, it is clear Pep Guardiola is planning a rebuild this summer, having identified targets in a number of positions, including goalkeeper, with Ederson in line to be replaced, and FC Porto shot-stopper Diogo Costa has now agreed to move to the Etihad Stadium.

In terms of defensive targets, Lazio centre-back Mario Gila has recently emerged as an option, while the Blues have also set their sights on Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali in central midfield, and Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz may replace the outgoing Kevin De Bruyne.

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City’s defence has been a huge problem this season.

According to a report from Spain, Man City are also keen to strengthen out wide, and they are now ready to make a move for Barcelona’s Raphinha, having identified the Brazilian as a priority target for the summer transfer window.

The 28-year-old is viewed as the ideal addition to Guardiola’s side at left-wing, given the level of his performances this season, but there may be competition for his signature, with Chelsea and Al-Hilal also in the picture.

The left-winger has made it clear he wants to stay at the Camp Nou, but Barcelona could be willing to listen to significant offers, given their difficult financial situation, and previous reports have detailed £80m could be enough to get a deal done.

Raphinha impressing for club and country

The Barcelona star’s performances this season have landed him firmly in Ballon d’Or contention, picking up a remarkable 30 goals and 23 assists in 49 matches in all competitions.

Not only that, but the Brazil international has received praise for his performances at international level from Romario, who said: “Raphinha is one of the best players today. He is one of the best in the world. He does very well with the Barca shirt and he is also doing very well with the Brazilian shirt. Raphinha is a pride for all Brazilians, he will give us very special things in football.”

Raphinha could be a fantastic signing for City this summer, having clearly performed at a world-class level this season, but Barcelona are likely to be determined to keep hold of the forward, given his importance to the side.