Having missed out on the high-profile capture of Alexis Sanchez from Arsenal, Manchester City are set to delve into the market again for a new targeted star instead.
Pep Guardiola had looked increasingly likely of reuniting with former Barcelona forward Sanchez at the Etihad, until bitter rivals Manchester United swooped in with a better offer for the Chile international.
But the Sky Blues are preparing to launch a massive bid for a new attacking target, as Guardiola seeks reinforcements come the end of the current Premier League season.
It’s now reported that Man City will attempt to raid back-to-back Champions League victors Real Madrid for highly-rated youngster Marco Asensio as a response to missing out on Sanchez.
Reports in Spain claim that the Citizens are set to swoop for the talented Bernabeu prospect in the summer, as Guardiola looks to keep fresh options available in his attacking ranks.
The 22-year-old has been widely tipped to become one of football’s next superstars in the coming years, alongside the likes of PSG’s Neymar and Juventus ace Paulo Dybala.
Previous links with the Red Devils and Arsenal forced Los Blancos to tie the Spaniard down on a new deal before, with his latest contract not running out until 2023.
Guardiola is believed to recognise Asensio as one of the brightest stars on the planet and Man City could offer in excess of €100m for his signature in the coming months.
Only Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo have struck more La Liga goals this season than the Spain international attacker, as he continues to shine on home soil.
If Man City’s interest is genuine, then it’s likely they will be the only club Real Madrid will listen to offers from, in order to get the obscenely high fee they desire.
