Man City transfer news: Matthijs de Ligt lured by Guardiola as Juventus play risky game with Chelsea, Man Utd target

Manchester City have been given encouragement to pursue a deal for Matthijs De Ligt amid claims the Juventus defender favours a move to the Etihad Stadium above all others this summer.

Pep Guardiola’s side have already been active in the summer market. Indeed, they have secured the signing of Erling Haaland, the Norwegian being one of the world’s most in-demand players. He will be joined at the Etihad by Julian Alvarez, who arrives from River Plate. It’s safe to say City will boast plenty of attacking threat next season.

After that, City will look to strengthen their midfield following Fernadinho’s departure. To that end, Leeds star Kalvin Phillips and Sporting’s Matheus Nunes are both reportedly targets of Guardiola.

However, one area they remain strong in is defence. Indeed, they have John Stones, Nathan Ake, Aymeric Laporte and Ruben Dias as four dependable and quality options in the heart of their rearguard.

That though has not prevented speculation suggesting they are considering a move for Juventus defender De Ligt.

The 22-year-old is regarded as one of the world’s elite defenders, signing for Juventus for a huge £65m in 2019.

He has made 117 appearances for the Bianconeri in his three seasons at the club. However, with his deal due to expire in 2024, talks over an extension are underway.

There, however, remains a catch. As per reports, Juve want to tie De Ligt down on reduced wages. As such they are hoping to reduce the Dutchman’s salary from €12m (£10.2m) to €7.5m (£6.3m) per year.

And while that still would mean a £120,000 a week deal, it would represent a significant drop in earnings for the player.

As a result, Calciomercato claims a number of clubs are readying approaches for the defender. Indeed, Manchester