Man City have made ‘surprising’ Savinho transfer decision after Tottenham bid
Manchester City have made a “surprising” Savinho transfer decision following Tottenham’s bid to sign him this summer.
Former Spurs scout Mick Brown told Football Insider Savinho wanted to join Tottenham after spending just one season at the Etihad Stadium.
However, Man City have decided Savinho will stay at the club despite reports suggesting Tottenham’s latest bid was worth in excess of £60million.
The 21-year-old joined Pep Guardiola’s side in a £30.8million deal from French club Troyes last summer.
Savinho, who has missed Man City’s opening three games of the campaign, registered three goals and 13 assists in 48 appearances last season.
Savinho in ‘very odd’ situation at Man City
This article contains exclusive comment from Stefan Borson, a former financial adviser to Man City.
There have been suggestions Man City don’t want to do business with Daniel Levy after blocking Savinho’s move to Tottenham.
Etihad Stadium chiefs and the Spurs chairman haven’t seen eye to eye on various issues in recent years.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider about Savinho’s situation, Borson said: “I don’t think it’s a reintegration problem so much as him showing his hand with Pep.
“I mean, the whole thing is a very odd and unusual situation. It’s very hard to understand why the player felt that he needed to move anyway at this stage.
“He played a lot of football last season at over 3,000 minutes. I think he was okay for a first season.
“I think he’s got a lot to prove this season, and the sorts of numbers that were touted by Spurs would have met my valuation but clearly didn’t meet City’s.
“I think to turn down let’s say £65million, I’m quite surprised to be honest, but we’ll see.
“I think that the good thing is he’s got it all to prove, so he’s been valued now by the market at that sort of level.
“He’s got interest from top clubs, so now he needs to prove it.”
Man City to accept Manuel Akanji offer after Tottenham approach
In terms of other transfer activity, Football Insider revealed on 30 August Man City are ready to accept offers for Manuel Akanji after Tottenham and AC Milan joined the race for his signature.
Spurs are one of several teams interested in the centre-back, who could be allowed to leave the Etihad if “the right offer” comes in before the window closes.
Galatasaray, AC Milan and Crystal Palace have also been linked with the Switzerland international in recent weeks.
For more Man City and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.