Manchester City are reportedly set to step up their pursuit of Brighton & Hove Albion left-back Marc Cucurella.
The 23-year-old is now believed to be Pep Guardiola's primary target, with the Citizens having already added Erling Braut Haaland, Kalvin Phillips and Stefan Ortega to their ranks this summer.
According to Italian broadcaster Rudy Galetti, via Inside Futbol, negotiations between both clubs have not moved forward and no agreement is in place, with Brighton holding out for at least £45m.
However, the report adds that the Premier League champions are now looking to accelerate their pursuit of the Spaniard and are ready to meet Brighton's valuation.
Guardiola is keen to recruit Catalan compatriot Cucurella as soon as possible in the hope that he will be join up with the Citizens ahead of their pre-season tour of the USA.
The left-back enjoyed an impressive first season with Graham Potter's side in 2021-22, making 39 appearances across all competitions, and was voted the club's Player of the Year.
The potential arrival of Cucurella at the Etihad Stadium will likely see Oleksandr Zinchenko head for the exit door, with the likes of Barcelona, Arsenal, Everton and West Ham United all monitoring his situation.
Oliver Thomas
