Italy international Manuel Locatelli is eyeing up a move away from Sassuolo amid interest from Premier League giants Manchester City, his agent told the Daily Mail.
Back in 2018, none other than Pep Guardiola spoke in glowing terms about Roberto di Zerbi; the heavily-lauded tactician who has turned Sassuolo into one of Serie A’s most exhilarating, free-flowing sides.
It makes sense, then, that the ball-playing, midfield maestro at the heart of Di Zerbi’s team would have also caught Guardiola’s eye.
The Mail reports that the £30 million-rated Locatelli is high on Manchester City’s wish list – and with good reason.
The six-time Italy international has blossomed into one of the country’s most influential players since joining Sassuolo from AC Milan in 2019.
A purposeful passer with a V8 engine growling beneath the surface, Locatelli not only protects the defence with energy and authority but is also capable of driving his team forward, bypassing the press with a powerful burst or piercing through-ball.
“If a nice offer comes, it would be good for everyone to find an agreement,” said agent Stefano Castelnuovo, suggesting that it may be time for his 23-year-old client to take the next step.
“We’ll be always grateful to Sassuolo. I think he is looking for a different experience, in Italy or abroad.
“He dreams of playing the Champions League – hopefully both he and Sassuolo will receive a gift in the summer.”
Former Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini would certainly give this move his seal of approval, having fast-tracked Locatelli into his Italy side with Euro 2021 just months away.
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