Man City eyeing up Javi Martinez
Manchester City are ready to make their first signing of the season and improve their midfield by making an offer for Athletic Bilbao’s Javi Martinez, The Daily Mail reports.
City scouts are expected to attend the Spanish Cup final to see Martinez in action, as Bilbao look to upset Barcelona in what will be Pep Guardiola’s final game in charge at the Nou Camp. Martinez has seven caps for Spain and is adaptable at playing in central midfield or central defence. There is a release clause in the player’s contract at around £24m and City are looking to steal a march on Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea by completing the deal before Euro 2012 begins.
The 23 year old was Spain under 21 captain in their European Championship success last year and is eyed as the long-term successor to Carles Puyol in the Spain defence. Current City captain Vincent Kompany came to the Etihad Stadium as a central midfielder, but was converted to a central defender, something that could be possible with Martinez.
After their first Premier League title this season, Mancini is eager to add to his multi-million pound squad this season and add Eden Hazard alongside Martinez as his main summer signings. The 21 year old Belgian international has agreed terms with all interested parties and is hopeful of a decision being reached before June 2nd. City are confident they have the wages and financial muscle to complete the deal, but are aware that Chelsea and United can contend with what City have to offer.
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