Enzo Maresca has reportedly asked City to pursue a January move for Real Betis centre-back Natan.
The 25-year-old Brazilian has emerged as a potential target ahead of the winter transfer window, with Maresca said to be driving City’s interest. Natan has been a regular for Betis this season after helping the Spanish club reach last year’s Conference League final, where he played against Maresca’s Chelsea.
However, there is no indication that City have made an offer or opened negotiations with Betis at this stage.
Maresca reportedly wants Natan at Man City
Sport Witness reports claims from Spain that Maresca has followed Natan since his time at Chelsea and has now requested his signing in January. Natan initially joined Betis on loan from Napoli in 2024 before completing a permanent €9million move the following year. He played 45 times last season and has made nine appearances this term.
Betis are reportedly seeking around €40m (£35m) for the defender, having rejected a €27m approach from Leeds United during the summer. Brentford and Fulham have also previously been credited with interest. City already have considerable competition at centre-back, with Rúben Dias, Marc Guéhi, Abdukodir Khusanov and Vitor Reis among Maresca’s options, while Joško Gvardiol can also operate centrally.
The report also claims Natan would prefer to join Barcelona, who explored a potential move during the summer without making an offer. City are continuing to assess potential targets despite the uncertainty surrounding their Premier League appeal, with their transfer planning reported to be continuing as normal.
For now, Natan’s name can be added to that reported planning, although City’s interest remains unconfirmed and there is no suggestion that a deal is close.
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