The Blues host Stoke tonight in the Premier League but it appears no-one told the world’s media outlets, who are (as always) telling tales of potential moves.
Of course, the Potters themselves are aware of tonight’s clash though so first of all, let’s check out their pre-match content.
The official website boasts an interview with former Blue Glenn Whelan, who is excited to revisit the Club he started his professional career with.
The midfielder stated: “For me it is, it’s where I started out. They give me the grounding to where I am today – I spent five and a half years there and loved every minute of it.
“It’s always nice to go back but better if we can go and get a result on Wednesday, especially after the disappointing result earlier in the season.
“The game didn’t merit the 4-1 scoreline - they scored two late goals in the 89th and 90th minute when we were right in the game.
“Four one was a bit of a hammering so we’ll go there and put in a performance and hopefully get the right result then we can forget about the home result.”
Meanwhile, Goal have penned a piece featuring more high praise for Gabriel Jesus, as Gilberto Silva explains the City man ‘can help Neymar’.
The article reads: “Barcelona superstar Neymar has long been viewed as a talisman for his country, with the expectations of a football-mad nation rested squarely on his shoulders.
“He has often delivered, with gold medal glory inspired by his showings at the 2016 Olympics, but any assistance will be most welcome.
“Jesus, at the age of 19, has shown enough in his blossoming career to suggest that he is capable of sharing the load, with his potential exciting those keeping a close on his development for club and country.”
Quoted in the story, Silva explained: “At the moment, Brazil suffer from a dependence on Neymar, but that may change with Jesus.
“He can help Neymar and lift a bit of the responsibility of his shoulders. But it’s not only about Neymar and Jesus. The players need to take their responsibility to deliver what is expected from them.
“It is great to see a Brazilian player with his ability adapting so quickly to the Premier League. Moving to England was a big step for Jesus. He has not only shown his ability, but also his maturity.
“He is a natural player – the way he does things. He plays in a simple way. He is young and he still has a lot to learn in terms of tactics and team play.
“Jesus can also improve his game individually. The Premier League will be a great school. He should absorb everything he can. He has to absorb the maximum to produce his very best.”
Moving onto the transfer gossip and the Daily Star believe City are one of six clubs interested in signing Alexis Sanchez.
Colin Harvey reports: “Spanish outlet Don Balon say his omission from the starting line-up against Liverpool at the weekend has made up the forward’s mind.
“His contract expires next summer and Arsenal face a dilemma over cashing in at the end of this season or losing the £35m man for nothing in 2018.
“The Chilean has no shortage of suitors, though.
“Manchester City, Chelsea, Juventus, Paris St-Germain, Atletico Madrid and Chinese Super League clubs are keen on his signature. Arsenal are desperate to avoid him joining another Premier League side so Juve, PSG and Atleti might consider themselves to have a good chance.
“There is, of course, huge money on offer from the Far East but that isn’t likely to interest the forward.”
Elsewhere, Sunderland are expecting City to bid for goalkeeper Jordan Pickford this summer, according to ESPN.
Jonathan Smith scribes: “A number of scouts from Premier League clubs have watched Pickford closely and the 22-year-old may consider his future if rock-bottom Sunderland are relegated at the end of the season.
“a news conference ahead of Wednesday’s Premier League clash with Stoke City that he would like to bring more English players to the Etihad when the summer transfer window opens.
“England under-21 international Pickford would appear to fit into that philosophy although City have been linked with a host of other keepers including Benfica’s Ederson, Real Sociedad’s Geronimo Rulli, and Kasper Schmeichel of Leicester City.”
Finally, rumours regarding ‘Isco to City’ are now becoming one of life’s certainties. The Mirror claim to have the ‘latest’ regarding the link.
Writes John Cross: “Pep Guardiola is a long term admirer of the Spain midfielder and City were keen on signing him when Manuel Pellegrini was in charge.
“Isco, 24, will now push to leave Madrid this summer with his contract due to expire in 2018 and is ready to move to another top club.
“Spain playmaker Isco has become increasingly frustrated and has made it clear that he could be up for a new challenge. City has massive appeal and there is genuine interest again with Isco keen on a move to the Etihad and English football.
“Barcelona have also been linked with a move when he becomes a free agent next year while Juventus are also in the market.
“But it is believed English football appeals to Isco and City boss Guardiola is ready to shake up his squad this summer even though he has a wealth of midfielders.”
