Manchester City are set to battle with Real Madrid for the signature of Real Betis full back Junior Firpo

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola will have to compete with European Champions Real Madrid for the signature of Real Betis full back Junior Firpo according the Mirror.

The Mirror have reported that Pep has been watching the highly rated 22 year-old, but the youngster has been heavily linked with Real Madrid as a long-term replacement of stalwart Marcelo.

Firpo would provide much-needed cover for Frenchman Benjamin Mendy who has suffered with terrible injury woes at the Etihad since his arrival in 2017. The 24 year-old has only managed 18 appearances for City.

Pep has his eye on the Real Betis youngster.

The Sky Blues have had to rely on Fabian Delph at left back and although he has performed admirably out of position, a player or Firpo’s quality would be a fantastic asset to the squad.

However, with Real Madrid’s Marcelo turning 31 this season, the Spanish giants will be keen to find a replacement and the Dominican Republic born left back has La Liga experience.

Although born in the Caribbean, the Betis youngster has a Spanish passport and has featured for the U21.

The Mirror have reported that the La Liga outfit will be after in the region of £40million for their talented left back. Only time will tell if Pep can beat his old rivals to the player’s signature.

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