Jorginho to join Mahrez in City swoop
MANCHESTER City are on the verge of completing a
£100m double swoop.
The Premier League champions have agreed a
£60m deal with Leicester for Riyad Mahrez and Napoli midfielder Jorginho is next on Pep Guardiola’s hitlist.
Yesterday, Jorginho’s agent confirmed City have lodged a formal bid and the parties are close to an agreement.
Speaking in Italy, Joao Santos said: “I know an offer to Napoli has arrived from Manchester City. We’re waiting for their response.
“I don’t think they have rejected offers. If Napoli find an agreement with City, we will assess everything.
“Obviously Manchester City would be very welcome, an opportunity not to be turned down. The coach is one of the best in Europe.”
Jorginho, a Brazilian-born Italy international, refused to discuss his future when quizzed while with his national team.
It is understood City will pay a basic £80,000 a week to the 26-year-old.
And sources in Italy claim the clubs are moving close to agreeing a £42m fee with the possibility of a further £1.75m going to the Italian club in add-ons.
Earlier this week, Napoli put a £48m price on their star – £9m more than City claimed they were prepared to offer.
But negotiations between City director of football Txiki Begiristain and his counterpart, Napoli sporting director Aurelio de Laurentis, appear to have found a breakthrough.
Guardiola has indicated that after City’s stunning league-winning season, he was only searching for two top signings. TALKS: Jorginho