Guardiola deflated as long-term target sends City packing again

Dani Alvez, Leonardo Bonucci, Kalidou Koulibaly

Juventus have quickly rejected another proposal from Manchester City about signing defender Leonardo Bonucci, according to a report.

Bonucci is a long-term target for City boss Pep Guardiola. City have made several approaches, the most recent coming in May.

However, City’s interest dates back to 2016. Indeed, Italy legend Bonucci revealed that there were some “possibilities” surrounding a move to the Etihad Stadium, as well as to Manchester United.

According to Gianluca di Marzio, Guardiola’s side have tried – and failed – again to lure the 33-year-old to the Premier League.

The source says City carried out a “survey” on Bonucci’s availability, which did not instil confidence into club officials.

What’s more, with Guardiola’s side appearing to diminish their interest, negotiations between the two sides have not yet begun.

Bonucci reportedly feels “flattered” by the interest from the four-time Premier League winners. However, he is allegedly keen to remain in Turin under the stewardship of new boss Andrea Pirlo.

Leonardo Bonucci Juventus

Pirlo replaced Maurizio Sarri earlier this month and the source claims that Bonucci feels re-energised and wants to “support” Pirlo in his work.

City’s failure to replace Vincent Kompany last summer cost them, as defensive issues led to Guardiola’s worst record in league management.

As such, Guardiola has stepped up his efforts to revamp his back line this time round. Nathan Ake has arrived from Bournemouth for £41million, but the Spanish boss wants more.

Napoli’s Kalidou Koulibaly is a target. The Serie A side’s president has claimed City are among the few clubs who could afford a deal.

MESSI MOVE COULD TAKE CENTRE STAGE

 

 

However, City may push back their efforts to sign a new defender if a potential deal for Lionel Messi opens up.

Guardiola has reportedly contacted the Argentine to gauge his mood, after he told Barcelona he wants to leave.

According to former United hero Wayne Rooney, Messi would undoubtedly flourish at either Manchester club.

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