Chase for £50m Leo

year, however, as City look to strengthen their defence as Vincent Kompany is still struggling with injury.

But they will face fierce competition from Chelsea and Conte, who view the centre-half as the answer to their own defensive woes.

The problem both clubs face is that the Italian giants are in no rush to cash the £51million cheque being shoved under their noses for a player who has developed into one of the world’s finest centre-halves.

Bonucci, 29, said: “I’ve signed a new contract with Juventus and I’m only thinking about them.”

But he recently revealed he had offers from the Premier League and was tempted by the prospect of playing in England.

Guardiola has constantly described Bonucci as one of his favourite players.

Conte is already under pressure to shore up a leaky and Stamford Bridge defence.