Etihad Stadium side close in on Stadio Olimpico centre-back.
Man City have reportedly agreed terms with AS Roma defender Mehdi Benatia as the Premier League title holders edge closer to signing the Moroccan according to Football Direct News.
Representatives of the Etihad Stadium side are said to be in talks with the in-form centre-back, this despite the fact that the Stadio Olimpico side are unwilling to sell the former Udinese man.
The Serie A side will demand £28m for the 27 year old who is said to be unhappy about the contract offer AS Roma have made following his excellent displays in his debut season for the Italian capital club.
With Benatia at the heart of his defence Rudi Garcia’s side conceded just 25 goals in 38 domestic league fixtures to secure a runners-up spot behind all conquering Juventus and therefore one can see why they would be reticent to sell the tough tackler.
Man City managern Manuel Pellegrini wants to bring in a world-class partner for captain Vincent Kompany, with Martin Demichelis in the latter stages of his career, Joleon Lescott set for a free transfer exit and youngster Matija Nastastic yet to deliver on his very obvious potential.
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