Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is reportedly keen to sign Houssem Aouar from Lyon as a replacement for ageing midfielder Fernandinho.
The Citizens have been looking to strengthen in defensive midfield over the past two transfer windows and hope to finally land one of their targets in January.
Ajax ace Frenkie de Jong is a long-term option, but strong demand in the Dutchman is expected to drive his valuation up and City do not want to enter a bidding war.
According to The Sun, Aouar is therefore considered the best option for the English champions, with Guardiola being left hugely impressed by the youngster's displays in City's double-header with Lyon in the Champions League.
Guardiola congratulated the France Under-21s international after the 2-2 draw between the sides last month, and it is claimed that the Catalan sees him as a suitable replacement option for 33-year-old Fernandinho.
Aouar, tied to Lyon until 2023, has previously been touted as a target for Chelsea and Liverpool.
Daniel Lewis
