Moroccan centre back Medhi Benatia has agreed personal terms with Manchester City; but will only leave the Italian runners up if a suitable replacement can be found.
The Chelsea target, who was at the heart of an AS Roma defence which conceded just 25 goals in 38 Serie A matches last year, has been told he can join the English champions next season if the Italian club can find someone to replace him. It is believed that a bid of £30.5m has been accepted, and delegates from the Manchester club have reportedly agreed terms with the centre back’s agent during the last 48 hours.
Croatian youngster Tin Jedvaj may be promoted to the starting lineup next season, to partner Brazilian centre back Leandro Castán , although River Plate’s Colombian defender Éder Álvarez Balanta or German Shkodran Mustafi have been touted as the likely replacement for Benatia next season.
Manchester City also look set to land French international Eliaquim Mangala from FC Porto for a similar fee of around £32m.
Written by Connor Whittick
