Let’s start with the latest on City’s reported interest in West Brom defender Jonny Evans.
Paul Hirst, writing in the Times, says City have had two bids rejected for the Northern Ireland man, and believes it would take a significantly increased third to land him.
It’s understood City first registered interest in Evans last month, but West Brom boss Tony Pulis looks set to stand firm and hold out for a higher fee, leaving City contemplating their next move.
“Manchester City’s determination to sign Jonny Evans will be tested after they were told that they will have to pay at least £30 million to tempt West Bromwich Albion into selling the defender,” Hirst writes.
“Tony Pulis, the West Brom manager, admitted that Evans could leave before the transfer window closes on August 31 if the price is right, but City will have to significantly increase the £18 million offer that was rejected this week. City’s first offer for the player, lodged last month, amounted to about £15 million.
““It would be crazy to say West Brom won’t sell if a huge amount of money is put in front of you,” Pulis said. “It would need to be a good offer. We’re not desperate for money. Jonny’s one of our best and we’d love him to stay.”
“Evans, 29, has two years left on his contract at the Hawthorns and Pep Guardiola, the City head coach, believes that the centre back would be a clever addition to his squad as he tries to compete for European and domestic honours this season.
“Guardiola was reluctant to speak about City’s interest in Evans yesterday but the two clubs will continue to negotiate. “Jonny Evans is a player for West Brom. It’s still the same. Tony Pulis was clear so there’s nothing to talk about,” the Spaniard said. “We are going to see how the market finishes at the end of the window. If we have to stay with the players we have right now, we are happy. If someone comes in, we are happy too.
“City are also attracted to Evans in part because he would increase the number of “home-grown” players in their squad. Premier League rules require at least eight players in each club’s 25-man squad to be home-grown.”
Meanwhile, Vincent Kompany’s dressing-room influence has been praised by Henry Winter.
He believes City will win the Premier League title this season, if they can keep the centre-back fit for the majority of the campaign.
Speaking on the Times’ The Game podcast, Winter said: “It comes down to keeping Vincent Kompany fit and it’s not simply what he brings on the pitch, his organisation and leadership.
“But it’s also he will be the glue in a changing dressing room and he’s such a popular individual.
“‘The President’ as the Belgians call him, he will be a key man for Manchester City this season. If they keep him fit they should win the title.”
And, finally, BBC Match of the Day pundit Ian Wright has also tipped City for the title.
The former Arsenal and England striker says City’s summer recruitment policy has targeted the right areas in the squad, leaving the Blues as favourites for Premier League glory.
Wright said: “I’m gonna go with Manchester City. I think they’ve strengthened in the right areas. It’s a vital, vital season for Pep Guardiola.”
That’s all for this morning, Blues. Join us again tomorrow for more of the same.
