Manchester City

Manchester City

Premier League • England

Man City legend still pursued despite knock back – but ball is in his court

Manchester City players Bernardo Silva, Joao Cancelo, Ruben Dias and Aymeric Laporte celebrate with Fernandinho after he scored vs West Ham, November 2021

Manchester City legend Fernandinho is reportedly still being pursued by Brazilian side Atletico Mineiro, despite an approach having been knocked back.

Mineiro are said to be keen to bring the 36-year-old back to his home country for the twilight years of his career. It is a path followed by many South American players who have ventured to Europe to find success.

A report earlier this week indicated the City club captain wants to see out his contract in Manchester until the end of the season.

After all, he is still playing his part, albeit a smaller one, in their pursuit of more trophies.

Despite that meaning a January move is off the table, Mineiro are keeping their ear close to the ground.

Should the midfielder change his mind, then they will likely make an official offer, as per transfer reporter Ekrem Konur.

City boss Pep Guardiola has previously made it clear to his squad that he will not stand in their way should they want to leave.


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Bernado Silva was close to the exit door last summer for that reason. And Ferran Torres is now on his way out after asking to leave.

Therefore, the ball is totally in Fernandinho’s court.

Man City offer Silva a pay rise

Man City offer Silva a pay rise

Bernardo Silva will make a big U-turn by signing the contract.

Since signing from Shakhtar Donetsk in 2013, he has gone on to make 365 appearances for City in all competitions.

His game time has diminished in recent years, with Rodri succeeding him. But he has remained an influential figure in the dressing room.

His expected departure next summer will make him the latest club legend to leave. While City are still searching for Sergio Aguero’s replacement, they will also need to find a new defensive midfielder.

City hit with UEFA fine

Meanwhile, City, Liverpool and Tottenham were handed fines by UEFA’s disciplinary panel following crowd disturbances during European games.

The Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body ruled City would be fined 5,000 euro (£4270) after a pitch invasion during the Champions League tie against Paris St Germain at the Etihad Stadium on November 24.

Liverpool have been handed the same fine following a similar incident during their European tie against Porto at Anfield. The visitors, meanwhile, were sanctioned 45,000 euro (£35,500) for a late kick-off.

Tottenham have been fined 5,000 euro (£4270) following a pitch invasion during their home 3-2 Europa Conference League win over Vitesse on November 4, and also 2,750 euro (£2350) for the throwing of objects from the stands.

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