Transfer Centre

Manchester City 'could rival Real Madrid for Marco Verratti'

By Matt Law, Football Editor | 24 May 2023

Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Marco Verratti emerges as a transfer target for Manchester City, according to a report.

Manchester City are reportedly considering a move for Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Marco Verratti during this summer's transfer window.

The 30-year-old arrived at the French giants from Pescara in 2012, and he has made 414 appearances for the club in all competitions, contributing 11 goals and 61 assists in the process.

This season, Verratti has featured on 36 occasions, providing one assist, but he has faced criticism from sections of the club's fanbase for some underwhelming performances.

A recent report claimed that Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti is keen to bring the Italy international to Bernabeu during this summer's transfer window.

According to Le Parisien, there is also interest from Man City, with the Citizens expected to be in the market for at least one central midfielder this summer.

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)'s Marco Verratti during the warm up before the match in February 2022 © Reuters

There have been suggestions that Ilkay Gundogan is now leaning towards signing a new deal at the Etihad Stadium despite strong reports linking him with a move to Barcelona.

However, Kalvin Phillips continues to be linked with an exit due to his struggles for action this term.

Verratti is said to be keen to remain at PSG this summer, but there could be big changes at the club, with Neymar and Lionel Messi both being linked with an exit.

Neymar is thought to be a target for Manchester United, while Messi is set to leave on a free transfer the end of June, with Barcelona keen to bring the Argentina international back to Camp Nou.

Brest's Haris Belkebla in action with Paris Saint-Germain's Marco Verratti on September 10, 2022 © Reuters

Verratti has enjoyed huge success during his time in the French capital, winning eight Ligue 1 titles, six Coupe de France trophies and six Coupe de la Ligue championships, in addition to reaching the final of the 2019-20 Champions League.

The Italian still has another three years left to run on his contract, meanwhile, having penned an extension towards the end of 2022.

PSG are currently six points clear of second-placed Lens at the top of the Ligue 1 table with two games left, having overcome a recent wobble.

There could be some big changes at Parc des Princes this summer, but Marquinhos recently signed a new contract until the summer of 2028, with the captain a key part of the club's plans moving forward.