Manchester City make ‘real contact’ over possible Stefan Ortega replacement – Manchester United confusion dismissed | OneFootball

Premier League champions Manchester City have reportedly made ‘real contact’ over the potential signing of a new back-up goalkeeper this summer.

Developments around the signing of a new number two come amid continued uncertainty surrounding the future of Stefan Ortega Moreno, who is entering the final year of his Etihad Stadium contract this summer.

Following a string of impressive performances that have tested Ederson’s ability to remain as Manchester City’s number one to the maximum, clubs are likely to be circling with intent for the German shot-stopper’s signature, aiming to take advantage of his situation.

In turn, Ortega himself could be open to the idea of a Manchester City exit, should a move offer him assurances of consistent first-team starting opportunities at the very top of European football.

With that being said, and while Manchester City will be simultaneously trying to convince Ortega of an extended stay, Etihad Stadium bosses will be making plans in the event of an exit in the coming months.

Earlier this week, rumours from Italy had claimed that cross-town rivals Manchester United had set their sights on Lazio goalkeeper Chrīstos Mandas ahead of the summer transfer window, however a new report has corrected that claim.

According to the information of Corriere dello Sport, as translated and relayed by Sport Witness, it is instead Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City who are interested in the 22-year-old Greek goalkeeper.

It is claimed that Etihad Stadium bosses have already carried out ‘real contact’ with Mandas’ entourage, with such contact taking place two weeks ago. However, unfortunately for City, it is detailed that Lazio’s initial idea was to send the goalkeeper out on loan.

The same report states that a meeting between the Italian club and Chrīstos Mandas’ agent is expected to take place in the next few weeks, with conversation likely to centre around the extending of his contract until 2029.

Mandas has only been with Lazio for a matter of months, having joined the Serie A side for an undisclosed fee at the back end of last year’s summer transfer window, following a rise in the Greek game.

The Greek youth international was first drafted into action for Lazio following injury to their mainstay goalkeeping option Ivan Provedel, going on to keep four clean sheets in just seven Serie A appearances during the second-half of the campaign.

Should Manchester City look to intensify their interest in Mandas, they are likely to be forced into paying a hefty transfer fee as the player’s stock continues to rise, and his contractual situation certainly benefits his current employers.