MANCHESTER CITY are plotting a shock swoop for a former Premier League star as Riyad Mahrez’s replacement, according to reports.
The Algerian helped Pep Guardiola’s side achieve an historic Treble last season.
GettyThe Cityzens have been linked with a swoop for Barcelona winger Raphinha[/caption]
GettyRiyad Mahrez looks set to leave Man City for Saudi Arabia[/caption]
But Mahrez, who has two years left on his contract, has allegedly agreed to leave City to join Saudi side Al-Ahli.
Al-Ahli, who are owned by the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund, are prepared to table a £30million bid for the 32-year-old.
And now he is believed to be set to undergo a medical ahead of the move.
Now a fresh report has claimed that Guardiola already has a man to fill the void left by the ex-Leicester ace.
French outlet Foot Mercato are stating that City want Barcelona forward Raphinha.
They say that the Brazilian is a “priority” for the champs and that the Catalans would be willing to sell.
The LaLiga giants need to raise £52m by August 31 in order to register last year’s signings and have allegedly let it be known that they are willing to listen to offers for the ace.
Raphinha also already has Premier League experience after spending two seasons with Leeds.
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The 26-year-old arrived at Elland Road from Rennes in 2020 for £17m and scored 17 goals and produced 12 assists in 65 top-flight appearances.
Barcelona shelled out £57m for him 12 months ago but he has struggled to impress at the Nou Camp and there was speculation that he was on his way out of the exit door as early as January.
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