Serie A director admits bid received from “important foreign club” amid Man City interest in midfielder | OneFootball

Sassuolo director Giovanni Carenvali has alleged to the Italian press that the club recently received “an offer from an important foreign club” for midfielder Manuel Locatelli – but he has ruled out a transfer in January, reports TVDelloSport.

The public claim comes amid reports in Italy that Manchester City are interested in Locatelli (23), who is valued at around Є40 million. Carenvali said: “I didn’t deny that…we received an offer from an important foreign club, but we will not sell him this January.”

That has naturally led to speculation that the offer has been made by Pep Guardiola’s side. Fabrizio Romano, however, has dismissed the rumours. Speaking on his podcast Here We Go, the Italian journalist asserted that there is “nothing serious” in City’s apparent interest in Locatelli.

Locatelli began his playing career at AC Milan, making 63 appearances for the Italian giants before joining Sassuolo in 2018. The combative midfielder is defensive minded and is known for his impressive range of passing, composure under pressure, and contributions off the ball.

His performances have earned the youngster a regular place in former City manager Roberto Mancini’s Italy side, with six caps to his name. Guardiola may well be interested in Locatelli given the midfielder’s skillset that is well suited to the Catalan’s philosophy and style of play.

Locatelli would offer something different to City, and while Romano’s comments suggest a move is unlikely, they do not deny that he is a player who may be of interest to the Premier League side.

—–

You can follow us for live updates here: @City_Xtra