PEP GUARDIOLA is considering Joshua Kimmich as a potential replacement for Ilkay Gundogan – if the Manchester City skipper leaves this summer.
Guardiola, who signed Kimmich, 28, during his time as Bayern Munich boss, has been alerted to the fact the German international was angered by Julian Nagelsmann’s sacking in March.
He is said to be seeking a fresh challenge – and his ability to play across the back four and in midfield has put him on the City chief’s radar.
Barcelona are interested, but their main focus remains signing Gundogan on a free transfer should he decide to leave the Etihad.
Guardiola is already on the lookout for a replacement should the City skipper leave, and is a massive fan of his international team-mate.
Bayern are trying to raise cash to strengthen their ranks, including selling former Liverpool striker Sadio Mane.
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They have told City they cannot afford the £60 million asking price to turn Joao Cancelo’s loan into a permanent move.
But the potential of using Kimmich, 28, as part of any transfer has increased the chances of sealing a deal.
Kimmich still has two years left on his current deal but has given no indication that he is willing to sign an extension.
Guardiola has also run the rule over Chelsea’s Matteo Kovacic, who is a year older and would command a similar £50m fee.
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Meanwhile, Cancelo could get Premier League and Champions League winners medals as a parting gift if he doesn’t return to the Etihad.
He made 17 league appearances before moving to Munich, and played in all City’s group stage games in Europe.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
