Pep Guardiola eyes shock Man City raid on PL rivals for free transfer

Posted Monday, November 13, 2017 by Caughtoffside.com

Man City boss Pep Guardiola has a lot to be cheerful about so far this season, but reports claim he's eager to further strengthen his squad.

The Spanish tactician has guided his side to top spot in the Premier League, eight points ahead of nearest rivals Man Utd, while they've sealed their place in the knockout stage of the Champions League with two games to spare.

Further, they've scored an impressive 50 goals in 15 games, conceded just 11, and so they look a formidable unit at both ends of the pitch.

However, according to The Daily Star they're eyeing a summer swoop for Liverpool midfielder Emre Can, who will be available on a free transfer as his current contract is set to expire at the end of the season.

Where will Emre Can be next season? Pep Guardiola reportedly wants him at Manchester City...

Given how the 23-year-old has developed and matured since moving to Anfield in 2014, particularly under Jurgen Klopp, the Reds will surely be desperate to reach an agreement and extend his stay on Merseyside.

Worryingly for them though, with just seven months to run on that deal, they still haven't been able to reach an agreement and he will be free to discuss terms with other clubs from February onwards, as per transfer rules.

It's claimed in the report from the Star that Juventus are also keen on the German international, but they're concerned that they will miss out to Guardiola and City if it comes down to a straight decision between the two giants.

With Yaya Toure also facing a similar situation in that he'll be moving on a free at the end of the season, there will be a gap to fill in the Man City squad, albeit the Ivorian veteran hasn't featured greatly this season with just four appearances in all competitions.

Nevertheless, when a player of Can's quality and potential with such a long way to go in his career still becomes available with no transfer fee involved, it's a surprise that more clubs aren't throwing their hat into the ring and joining the race for his signature.