adminManuel Pellegrini admits Manchester City need a ‘crack’ player to take them to the next level. The term is used in Spain to describe a world star, a galactico, who can transform the team.
The reigning Premier League champions saw their hopes of retaining the title diminish after a shock 1-0 defeat by Burnley on Saturday.
Here Sportsmail identifies five names City have considered as they approach a pivotal summer in their development.
Paul Pogba: Juventus £55m
City have trailed Pogba since he was on their doorstep at Manchester United. The 22-year-old can be the dominant force in City’s midfield for years to come and add the extra energy they have lacked this year.
Juventus general director Giuseppe Marotta said: “There are many suitors for Pogba, but we do not want to open negotiations and we want him to stay with us.” That said if clubs offer £55m it will be difficult for the Italians to reject.
Gareth Bale Real Madrid £75m
Bale is determined to ride out the storm in Madrid but won’t be short of admirers should he opt to leave. Despite the fuss over Manchester United’s overtures to him, Bale was aware of City’s interest prior to his departure from Tottenham and would listen if his time at Madrid was up.
A home-grown player to boot, he has matured since leaving White Hart Lane and would give City the pace and direct dynamic they have lacked this season.
Cristiano Ronaldo Real Madrid £80m
Surely not? The chat among some City players last week was that Cristiano Ronaldo was destined for Manchester and not the Old Trafford side.
It’s almost unthinkable considering his affection for all things United.
His agent Jorge Mendes says he will retire at Madrid but tensions are undoubtedly high as the unforgiving Bernabeu crowd see fit to criticise a phenomenal player who has scored 280 goals for them.— dailymail.
Online Reporter