Man City’s summer recruitment plans
For the second time this weeks reports have come out regarding Man City’s summer recruitment plans.
Leaving aside the likelihood of the deals coming off, what seems clear is that City are currently a few moves in front of their rivals in England.
Heading into the final stretch of the season, the Sky Blues can almost relax in the Premier League. The title is virtually wrapped up, meaning City can focus attentions on the Champions League.
And while clubs are struggling to finish the year on a high, City are already ahead of the curve when it comes to summer signings.
Target: Sporting CP’s Rafael Leao
According to Duncan Castles, Man City are leading the charge for Rafael Leao.
The Sporting CP forward is just 18-years-old, but this season he’s scored 12 goals in 19 matches.
In the league he’s bagged six goals and one assist in 11 games.
Man City have reportedly stolen a march on the likes of Chelsea and Man United for Leao:
The English Premier League club — which has outspent all domestic and European rivals since Pep Guardiola’s appointment as coach — has offered Sporting a fee of €25 million ($30.7 million) for the 18-year-old, according to sources familiar with the approach.
The Lisbon club extended Leao’s contract until 2022 in October, increasing the player’s release clause to €60 million.
Will Chelsea or Man United challenge City for the signing?
Manchester City & Fred
It’s also been widely reported that Manchester City have agreed a deal to sign Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder Fred.
The Brazilian could sign in a £50 million deal.
The 24-year-old, who has won six caps for Brazil, could replace Yaya Toure in the City squad.
Man City are also being tipped with moves for Dutch and French teenagers this summer.
Philippe Sandler, the Dutch U20 defender from PEC Zwolle, and Claudio Gomes, a 17-year-old PSG midfielder, are targets.
Also see: Shock name in Man City’s predicted XI vs Basel.
Basel vs Manchester City predictions: Champions League preview, line-ups & football betting tips.
