According to Fabrizio Romano, Manchester City have turned its focus to Gabri Veiga as they seek a replacement for the departed Ilkay Gundogan. Pep Guardiola is reportedly interested in the Spanish midfielder, who is valued at €40 million.
Man City have been actively involved in the transfer window in recent days. They were engaged in a transfer battle with Arsenal over Declan Rice, as Guardiola saw the West Ham midfielder as a potential successor to Gundogan.
After failing to secure a deal for Rice, the Premier League champions turned their attention to Veiga as a potential replacement for Gundogan. The Spanish midfielder has attracted interest from Liverpool and Chelsea as well.
EXCL: Manchester City have entered the race for Spanish talent Gabri Veiga after pulling out of Declan Rice deal. He’s one of the options now being considered at the club. 🚨🔵 #MCFC
Liverpool and Chelsea remain interested but City also informed now.
Release clause: €40m. pic.twitter.com/Hb8kmXfMzi
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 28, 2023
Man City’s initial offer of £80 million plus £10 million for Rice was rejected by West Ham, who ultimately accepted a higher bid of £105 million from Arsenal. With Rice out of reach, Guardiola sees Veiga as a viable alternative and has joined the race for the 21-year-old.
Liverpool and Chelsea have also been monitoring the young midfielder and may prepare offers in the coming days. However, both clubs have prioritized other positions and are not fully committed to pursuing the midfielder at this stage.
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Liverpool were reportedly willing to offer Veiga a long-term contract worth €5 million per year. However, the competition from the Citizens may hinder the chances of both Liverpool and Chelsea securing his signature. Guardiola’s influence and the club’s recent success make them an attractive destination for players.
The Premier League champions will now need to negotiate a deal with Celta Vigo by meeting Veiga’s release clause. This could come as a blow for Chelsea as they were interested in signing the young midfielder this summer.
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