CITY MAKE BACK-UP PLANS FOR POGBA

City have drawn up a list of alternative targets as the battle for Paul Pogba threatens to escalate into a fierce bidding war.

the Juventus midfielder remains top of the Blues’ wishlist as they look to strengthen their squad for next season.

But the fact Barcelona, who beat Pogba’s Juve in Saturday’s Champions League final –and fellow Spanish big guns Real Madrid also want him means City know they have to have a plan B.

City have been linked with Bayer Leverkusen’s German international Lars Bender, Barcelona’s Alex Song and Monaco’s Geoffrey Kondogbia.

Pogba’s agent Mino Raiola said ahead of the Berlin final: “Could it be his last game with Juve? theoretically, yes. the transfer window is open until September 2. We’ll see.

“Offers are already coming in, but they’ve all been sidelined.

“Juventus don’t want to sell him, so anyone who wants him will have to go out and buy him. the price depends on who buys him, but Juve must make it an auction.

“His transfer would be one of the most expensive in history.

“He’s certainly one of the most expensive players in the world, he’s a special young player and has something more than the others.

“i’m convinced that we’ve not even seen the best of what he can do yet.”

Barcelona cannot register players until January 1, although that does not rule them out of making a signing ahead of a move the following summer.

Real legend Zinedine Zidane, meanwhile, wants his compatriot to make a switch to Madrid.

“Now, if he has to leave Juventus... i adore Real Madrid and the best players play here, so i think it would be good for him to come,” Zidane said.

“this is not a current issue right now but he has incredible potential.”