Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez is thought to be a long-term admirer of the Manchester City defender.
Manchester City defender Eliaquim Mangala
Newcastle United are set to test Manchester City’s resolve with a £12 million bid for Eliaquim Mangala in the coming days, the Chronicle reports.
City are said to want closer to £16 million for Mangala – the price they agreed with Valencia at the start of the Frenchman’s loan spell last season.
However, it is claimed that Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez – who allegedly wants Mangala as a first-choice centre-back and would offer him “substantial” wages – is hopeful of brokering a deal.
City are reportedly keen to offload the 26-year-old – who became the most expensive defender in British transfer history upon his move from FC Porto in 2014 – as they continue a squad overhaul which has already seen Bernando Silva arrive for £43 million and Ederson undergo a medical ahead of a £33 million move.
New Manchester City recruit Bernardo Silva [right]
It is said that Mangala’s arrival on Tyneside could spell the end of Grant Hanley’s Newcastle career, with several Championship sides keen.
Newcastle United defender Grant Hanley
Benitez was linked with a move for the eight-cap star while manager of Napoli.
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Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez
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