Manchester City are interested in a Serie A wing-back, but bringing him to the Etihad Stadium would require a significant transfer fee.
It was revealed earlier in the month that Manchester City are interested in AS Roma wing-back Wesley Franca.
Pep Guardiola rates the 22-year-old who has been nicknamed ‘the new Cafu’ since he moved to Serie A from Flamengo last summer.
Wesley is said to have become a new favourite of Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini, meaning it will not be easy for Man City to seal a deal for the defender.
Manchester City will have to pay £44m for Wesley
According to Corriere della Sera (as relayed by Sport Witness), there is confidence that Manchester City will have to pay around £43.6m in order to sign Wesley in the summer.
The player only joined Roma last July and he has a contract with the club which will not expire until 2030, which is more than four years away.
Wesley has already made 31 appearances this season and his work rate is said to be better than the majority of his teammates. The Brazilian’s adaptability has been just as impressive, as seen by his willingness to play as a wing-back.
Man City are unlikely to negotiate a better deal
Roma only paid just over £20m to sign Wesley and so more than doubling his fee is a bold move. However, it makes sense that they are reluctant to see the promising talent when he is yet to spend a full season at the club.
Man City could try going in below Roma’s asking price, but the chances of a cheaper deal seem slim considering the circumstances.
If City truly want to sign Wesley, the club will be required to empty their pockets and realise how important the fast-developing baller could be in years to come.
