Savinho: Enzo Maresca could block Man City exit as replacement lined up
Savinho's move is set to be delayed by Enzo Maresca as he looks to sign a replacement before the Man City star is let go, sources have told Football Insider.
The Brazilian winger is looking to leave the Etihad Stadium this summer in search of regular game time.
Tottenham have been linked with a move for his services over the last few windows, and remain keen to complete a deal by the end of the summer.
Enzo Maresca is content to see him leave the club in the coming weeks, but an exit is not imminent.
Savinho is expected to leave, but as I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Maresca wants a new winger through the door before he is allowed to join Spurs.
City have been linked with moves for numerous wide players in the last few months, with a deal set to be accelerated before Savinho moves on.
Savinho likely to leave Man City at the end of the window
Savinho registered five goals and three assists in 39 appearances last season, helping City win both domestic cup competitions.
Roberto De Zerbi has identified him as a top target to bolster Spurs' wide areas, but will seemingly have to wait until the end of the window to get his man.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "Talks have been ongoing (between) Manchester City (and Tottenham) but I don't think City are rushing anybody out the exit door just yet. They want to keep their squad intact until they bring in further signings of their own."
Man City lining up Pedro Neto approach to replace Savinho
Maresca worked closely with Neto in their time together at Chelsea before he left the club at the start of this year.
The Portuguese international winger has the attributes to shine at the top level but has struggled to consistently impress at Stamford Bridge in recent seasons.
Sources have exclusively revealed to Football Insider that City have identified Neto as a Savinho replacement this summer.
They are keen to make a move for Neto as the Brazilian moves on, with Chelsea holding out for a fee of £70million.