Manchester City round-up: Barcelona defender approached; striker nears switch; Clichy heads to Turkey

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According to reports arising from Spain over the past day, Manchester City have had an initial approach for Barcelona defender Sergi Roberto rejected.

Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo suggest that manager Pep Guardiola has gone back to his former side to try and strengthen his defensive line ahead of the new season and Roberto has particularly caught his eye.

It is believed that the Citizens are willing to pay up to 35 million euros (£30 million) for the 25-year-old right-back, but the Spanish giants have told City that Roberto is not for sale at any price.

Roberto featured regularly in Barcelona’s first-team last season, managing 21 starts as they fell narrowly short of Real Madrid in the La Liga title race.

Guardiola is having to look elsewhere after talks with Tottenham for their right-back Kyle Walker have seemingly stalled – as per the Independent – with Spurs unwilling to lose their £50 million valuation of him.

Meanwhile, ESPN have claimed that Leicester City are closing in on securing a deal for young striker Kelechi Iheanacho in a move that could cost a reported £25 million.

It is alleged that sources close to Manchester City have told the news outlet that advanced talks are currently underway ahead of a switch to the King Power this summer, with negotiations taking place.

It is understood that West Ham have stopped their interest in the 20-year-old Nigerian, paving the way for Craig Shakespeare to make his move.

Iheanacho has struggled for first-team football since the arrival of Guardiola at the start of last season, playing second string to the likes of Sergio Aguero and new Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus.

Finally, former Manchester City defender Gael Clichy is set to sign for Turkish Super League side Istanbul Basaksehir after being released by Pep Guardiola last month.

The 34-year-old left-back was no longer deemed to be part of the Spaniard’s plans heading into the new season – despite making 25 Premier League appearances last year – and he’s found a new club.

The Sun reports that Clichy is to undergo a medical at Basaksehir at some point on Friday afternoon and will join on a three-year deal, where he will likely see out his career.

It is understood that he will join up with Istanbul Basaksehir – who missed out on the title by four points last season, in a deal that will cost around £2.5 million.

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