Today, defenders are at the forefront of the gossip columns, so here’s our roundup of the latest names in the frame…
Manchester Evening News: Man City ‘most likely’ destination for Athletic Bilbao defender Nunez
Daniel Murphy writes: “Spanish side Athletic Bilbao fear losing their promising centre-back Unai Nunez to Man City in January, according to reports.
“City have suffered defensively this season following the departure of Vincent Kompany and the fitness issues of Aymeric Laporte, John Stones and Nicolas Otamendi and as a result have been touted to sign a new centre-back during the winter transfer window.
“Kalidou Koulibaly and Pau Torres are two names which have been linked and now EL Gol Digital claim that City is the ‘most likely destination’ for Nunez.
The 22-year-old has only made eight appearances this season but helped Athletic keep clean sheets against Barcelona and Real Madrid and remains highly rated.
”It’s reported that Nunez ‘refuses to renew’ his contract and that the club are ‘almost certain’ he will depart this month. It’s said that Pep Guardiola has ‘interest in him’ as he has the technical ability to play in the Blues’ back-line, just like Laporte who was also signed from Bilbao.”
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FourFourTwo: 5 players Manchester City could sign this January
Mark White writes: “One of the most well-respected defenders outside the top six, Nathan Ake makes a lot of sense at Manchester City. He’s young enough to grow at the club, versatile enough to fill in at left-back or defensive midfield, and he’s an intelligent, physical and technically-gifted player.
“There are a number of obstacles to his transfer, however. Chelsea reportedly have first refusal on the Dutchman and they may wish to exercise that clause of his contract. Bournemouth won’t want to lose one of their biggest assets before a relegation fight and the defender’s recent injury puts him out of action until midway through the month. A move to City may be unlikely, but not off the cards.
“Potential price: £40 million.”
That’s all for this morning’s Media Watch – but stay with us throughout the day as we bring you all the latest City news and opinion.
And don’t forget, our U18s play in the FA Youth Cup fourth round this evening, with live coverage on Man City for TV.
