Guardiola targeting Atletico defender Hernandez – report

Oli Fisher
Lucas Hernandez: Reported City target

Pep Guardiola has reportedly made Atletico Madrid youngster Lucas Hernandez a transfer target for Manchester City as he looks to bolster his defensive ranks.

The Spaniard is eager to freshen up his squad, with The Sun reporting defence is a key area to bolster following the release of Martin Demichelis and frequent injury problems to Vincent Kompany.

Atletico boss Diego Simone is eager for for Lucas, who made 16 appearances in all competitions last season, to remain at the club. The defender started both legs of their Champions League quarter-final win over Barcelona and came on as a substitute in the final against bitter rivals Real Madrid.

The Argentinian boss gave Lucas his Atletico debut in December 2014, before going on to extend his contract until 2019 and he was promoted permanently to the first-team squad.

He has been a regular for France Under-19s and is expected to break into Les Bleus’ Under-21 side this season.

The 20-year-old reportedly has a £20million release clause in his current contract which means that Atletico could be helpless if City or any other club come calling after the highly-sought after player.

Arsenal, Bayern Munich and PSG have also been linked with a move for the highly-rated Frenchman.