Manchester City have made enquiries about Matheus Nunes, whom Pep Guardiola eyes as a long-term replacement for Fernandinho.
According to A Bola, as relayed by Sport Witness, Matheus Nunes is becoming a target for Manchester City, who could look to secure the midfielder in the summer after making initial enquiries. The Premier League champions are now looking at potentially reducing Sporting CP’s asking price by including players in the deal.
In Manchester City’s two-legged victory over Sporting CP in the last-16 round of this season’s Champions League, Matheus Nunes managed to catch the attention of Pep Guardiola. The midfielder was an impressive outlet for the Portuguese outfit and now features firmly on the radar of the Premier League side.
Nunes has become a mainstay at Sporting CP, who remain in the hunt for the domestic title despite lagging behind Porto, with six points separating the two sides. His role in central midfield fits the style of football City play under Guardiola.
Manchester City are certainly interested in Nunes and could see the 23-year-old as a potential long-term replacement for veteran Fernandinho. After putting in some impressive performances this term, the 36-year-old could depart at the end of the season.
Nunes has a reported €60 million release clause in his contract, although Sporting CP could part ways with him for around €40 million. Manchester City are aware of the demands laid down by the Portuguese side and have made enquiries for the player in a bid to reduce the asking price even further.
Man City could look to include some players as part of the deal, which could soften the blow of his departure for Sporting. Sporting CP are expected to trigger an €8.5 million option for Pedro Porro, which can be discounted from the asking price for Nunes. Meanwhile, Man City could include more players such as Ante Palaversa and Talles Magno, either on loan or permanently to the Portuguese club.
Such a deal could suit both clubs, although Sporting CP would like to have the majority of the fee in cash. On the pitch, Nunes could prove to be a solid purchase for Man City, who also face competition from other Premier League sides for his signature, including Tottenham and Everton.
Considering Manchester City’s willingness to include players as part of the deal, Guardiola’s side could have the advantage over the others. Moreover, Nunes might jump at the chance of playing for the Premier League champions and under the Catalan to further develop his career alongside a host of international colleagues.
