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

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

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

According to Football Insider, City began looking at alternatives to Ederson after reports linking him with a move to the Saudi Pro League surfaced. It is understood that the 'feeling' surrounding the 30-year-old is that he would be ready to leave the club this summer and that a fee of £40 million could be accrued through the sale.

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Although Stefan Ortega has performed well as Ederson's deputy, it is believed that Maignan has been identified as the target to pursue should the City goalkeeper leave. The Frenchman has kept 15 clean sheets in 42 appearances this season for Milan.

Elsewhere, a new report from Marca suggests Atletico Madrid are growing increasingly confident about signing Julian Alvarez this summer. Reports claim 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 given he was frequently used last season, making 54 appearances and scoring 19 goals. Marca adds that although 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.