Pep Guardiola to miss out on ‘dream Man City signing’ in crushing blow
Man City enjoyed a busy summer transfer window as they planned a major overhaul of the squad, and there is a feeling they are not done yet.
Pep Guardiola‘s side had a mixed start to the season but now look to be finding their feet, and they now remain keen to strengthen the squad for further success.
City are determined to strengthen their midfield despite the addition of Tijjani Reijnders, and they have now put together a list of names including Newcastle star Bruno Guimaraes.
However, Football Insider revealed on 28 September that Man City will miss out on signing Guimaraes despite having made an informal approach during the summer.
As a result, Paris Saint-Germain star Joao Neves has emerged as Guardiola’s “dream signing” in efforts to further reinforce his midfield options.
Man City set sights on PSG star Joao Neves
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, City have considered a move to sign Neves, 21, following a tremendous debut season at PSG.
The Portugal international helped his side win the treble and recently ranked 19th on the Ballon d’Or shortlist, with his teammate Ousmane Dembele lifting the award.
As a result of his crucial role in Luis Enrique‘s team, however, PSG are extremely reluctant to see him leave and will snub any formal approach from Man City.
Speaking on the Inside Track podcast, I explained: “Again, I’ll be very surprised if PSG would even consider letting Neves go.
“He’s a key part of their immediate and long-term futures, he had a key impact in his debut season as PSG won the treble, so everything points to PSG rejecting any offer from City.
“Obviously, he would be a dream signing for Man City and Guardiola if they could get it done.
“He’s a top, top young player and is only going to get better, he’s already figured highly on the Ballon d’Or rankings and you’ll see him even higher if he continues his rise.
“PSG don’t want to lose him and as I said, even if Man City put up a huge offer, it’s no like PSG need the money at the moment.”
Neves’ outstanding first season at PSG is sure to have attracted suitors including City, but with no plans to let him go, he remains a key part of the French giants’ plans.
Pep Guardiola to continue Man City overhaul after transfer plans revealed
Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider in June that Guardiola was preparing to overhaul his Man City side during the summer.
Now, with the likes of Neves and Guimaraes on City’s list to improve the side, speculation has been rife about the future of some of their more experienced players.
This comes as Brown told Football Insider earlier this month that Bernardo Silva could be allowed to leave Man City amid links with a move to Benfica.
Micah Richards criticised Silva following Man City‘s poor start to the season, with the 31-year-old’s future up in the air amid concerns about his recent form.
Meanwhile, Brown told Football Insider in June that Guardiola is prepared to let Silva leave with clubs in Portugal, Spain and Saudi Arabia keeping tabs on his situation.
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.