- EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey
HITC understands that Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Ittihad have tabled an offer to sign Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson.
They have made the same offer to Ederson that their PIF-owned rivals Al- Nassr did earlier in the transfer window.
Both offers – if accepted – would make the Brazilian the highest-paid goalkeeper in the world.
It is understood that Ederson is open to joining either Saudi club this summer but negotiations over his fee are continuing between clubs.
HITC can confirm that the Saudi Pro League are back in talks with Manchester City after a previous offer worth £25million was rejected.
City sources insist that it would require a fee of at least £40million for them to part ways with Ederson this summer.
There is still hope at City that Ederson can be persuaded to sign a new deal but they accept he could leave if he insists on a move away.
Manchester City highlight two goalkeeper options
If Ederson does push through a move to Saudi Arabia, Pep Guardiola’s squad will have a gaping hole to fill.
With only Scott Carson and Stefan Ortega remaining as first-team goalkeepers, City would have to dip into their market to add extra depth.
HITC understands that City have been doing their homework on potential goalkeeper options this summer with the club eager to sign someone who would serve as back-up and challenge Stefan Ortega.
As previously revealed by HITC, Manchester City have looked at Sunderland’s Anthony Patterson as an option.
It is understood that Patterson is also admired by Liverpool.
Former City academy star James Trafford – available from Burnley – is also on their radar over a potential return to the club. City have a buy-back clause for the 21-year-old after he left last summer.
Should Ederson leave this summer, City appear ready to promote Ortega to a No.1 role after impressing between the sticks last season.
He made 20 appearances across all competitions for City last season and kept eight clean sheets.
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