Bon bid for City escape
MANCHESTER CITY target Leonardo Bonucci has given the clearest indication yet that he’s heading for the Etihad in a £60m move.
The classy Juventus defender was the subject of an enquiry from City last summer.
The Italians held on to the 29-year-old but may lose him at the end of this campaign after a bust-up with Juve chief Max Allegri.
City, who want two central defenders, appear to be in pole position.
After praise from boss Pep Guardiola, Bonucci responded: “When the best manager in the world says
you’re one of his favourite players, you act like it’s nothing.
“But you still can’t help but have a smile on your lips. This praise only confirms my important progress. It’s always nice.”
Chelsea are also keen on Bonucci and the Italian has admitted the lure of playing in the Premier League will be difficult to turn down.
He added: “It fascinates me. When I can, I watch English games, and not only for the quality of the players on display.
“I’m hot-headed and love the passion that exudes from their packed stands.
Eager
“It’s for that kind of thing that I’m first on the training pitch and last back in the changing room.”
Ex-Barcelona boss Guardiola is eager to overhaul his City squad and also wants a reunion with unsettled Arsenal forward Alexis Sanchez.
Starsport revealed yesterday that the Spaniard is ready to go head to head with Chelsea boss Antonio Conte for the £50m-rated Chilean.
Sanchez’s contract at the Emirates expires at the end of next season and they risk losing him for nothing if they do not cash in.