Manchester City stepped up interest in South American wonderkid

Manchester City are reportedly eyeing up a move for Argentinian Estudiantes wonderkid Dario Sarmiento dubbed the ‘mini-Messi’.


The 17-year-old only made his debut for the Argentinian club last season but is very highly-rated and has been compared to Barcelona and Argentina superstar Lionel Messi .



ESPN claim that Man City are on the verge of signing the 17-year-old, who currently plays for Estudiantes.





According to TyC Sports, City have made a bid of $10m (€8.3m) plus add-ons for the Estudiantes super-talent that could reach $15m (€12.5m) if all objectives are met.


Sarmiento who only has a handful of senior appearances to his name has already got fans out of their seats. 



Playing on the right wing, with a wand of a left foot, great close control and a penchant for cutting inside, Sarmiento has inevitably been likened to his fellow countryman. 


Any deal would likely see Sarmiento remain at Estudiantes for the time being as he is still a minor and doesn’t turn 18 until March next year, meaning he would not be able to get a work permit.