Manchester City receive boost in pursuit of €80m-rated Inter Milan striker

Manchester City have received a boost in their pursuit of Lautaro Martinez, as Inter Milan reportedly eye up a replacement.

The 24-year-old forward, who was heavily linked with a departure last summer, continues to be linked with a move to the Premier League, with Man City manager Pep Guardiola believed to be a ‘great admirer’ of the Argentina international.

It’s no secret that the Citizens are in the market for a new striker after losing Sergio Aguero in the summer, increasing the likelihood of a high-profile name arriving at the Etihad Stadium in 2022.

The Cityzens did sign Julian Alvarez in January from River Plate to become Aguero’s successor at the Etihad. But the 22-year-old may not feature in a City shirt until next January as he is back on loan at River Plate.

For an immediate striker solution, Guardiola remains intent on adding another, more experienced, goalscorer to his ranks before the next season kicks off.

Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Haaland is seen as a key target, but with lot of competitions for his signature, the Cityzens seems to be looking into the possibility of landing Martinez.

According to The Sun, Manchester City have received a huge boost in their transfer pursuit of the Inter Milan striker, as the Serie A giants reportedly identified Borussia Mönchengladbach forward Marcus Thuram as the man to fill the Argentine’s boots if he decides to leave.

The report states that Guardiola’s side will be pleased to know Inter Milan are in the market for a striker, adding fuel to the rumours that Martinez will be leaving the club in the summer.

It remains to be seen if there is any seriousness in the interest from Manchester City to sign the Inter Milan €80m-rated striker.

The 24-year-old joined Inter in July 2018 and has been a regular goalscorer ever since. He is once again causing defenders in Italy all sorts of problems this season. His record stands at 11 strikes in 24 league matches so far.

However, Martinez may not suit Guardiola system of preferring a false-nine type striker, rather than an out-and-out centre-forward. The Argentine has enjoyed his best days at Inter in a two-man strike partnership, but City often line-up in a 4-3-3.