Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini has reportedly selected Real Madrid defender Pepe as a potential addition to his squad this summer.
Pepe has spent six seasons with Madrid, dividing opinion in Spain with a combative, all-action style.
Pellegrini believes that Pepe could form a strong central defensive partnership with City captain Vincent Kompany and is ready to tempt Madrid with a £20m transfer bid, according to The Mirror.
Real president Florentino Perez has been adamant that the Portuguese international is not for sale in the close season, with Madrid waiting for direction on transfer policy from new manager Carlo Ancelotti.
City are thought to be prepared to match Pepe's lucrative contract at the Bernabeu to force through a move, but must first persuade Madrid to part with a key defensive linchpin.
Pellegrini has been quick to enter the transfer market in his first few weeks as City boss, adding Jesus Navas to the early capture of Brazilian midfielder Fernandinho.
Liam Power
