Man City 'identify' Ederson transfer replacement as Julian Alvarez confidence emerges

Manchester City have reportedly identified AC Milan's Mike Maignan as their long-term replacement for Ederson.

City's first-choice goalkeeper has been Pep Guardiola's go-to shot stopper throughout most of his tenure at the Etihad Stadium. The Brazilian's ability to distribute the ball out with his feet makes him a rarity in modern football and one of the Blues' most valuable assets.

According to Football Insider, City have started to look for alternatives to Ederson after reports linking him with a switch to the Saudi Pro League surfaced. It is understood the 'feeling' surrounding the 30-year-old is that he would be open to departing the club this summer and that a fee of £40m could be accumulated from the sale.

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While Stefan Ortega has performed well as Ederson's deputy it is believed Maignan has been identified as the target to go after if the City 'keeper departs. The Frenchman kept 15 clean sheets in 42 appearances this season for Milan.

Elsewhere, a fresh report from Marca suggests Atletico Madrid are growing increasingly confident of securing Julian Alvarez's signature this summer. The reports claims the club are confident they can lure the Argentine to Spain thanks to their previous ability to acquire players like Luis Suarez and Joao Felix.

The 24-year-old would be a surprise departure from the Etihad Stadium considering he was used frequently last season, making 54 appearances and scoring 19 goals. Marca adds that while the striker is on their radar, no official approach has been made by Atletico for Alvarez at this stage.

The World Cup winner's contract at City expires in 2028.