Manchester City had “scouts” in the stands to watch Italy’s 2-2 draw against Belgium last Thursday evening, according to TBRFootball.
The website claims that the Premier League champions were there to watch two players: Torino’s Samuele Ricci and Maxim de Cuyper.
City’s interest in Ricci is well-documented, with reports both in England and Italy over the past couple of weeks touting him as a potential replacement for Rodri (with a valuation of £25m). However, the pursuit of de Cuyper is a pretty new development.
What do City fans need to know about de Cuyper?
The Belgian is a left-back by trade and he is currently playing in his homeland for Club Brugge. While the defender did initially make his first-team breakthrough as a teenager, he was sent out on loan to Westerlo for two years in order to aid his development.
De Cuyper returned to Brugge at the start of last season and he has made rapid progress over the last 12 months, culminating in him making his debut for Belgium back in June. Reports suggest that his asking price is now €20m (£17m).
City will have rivals for the two players
TBRFootball report that Cityzens were not the only Premier League team who sent representatives to see the pair in action last week. Both Arsenal and Liverpool had observers present too, keeping close tabs on them.
The Gunners are known to be fans of Ricci and it is believed that manager Mikel Arteta could target him as a potential replacement for fellow Italian Jorginho (who is out of contract next summer).
Liverpool, meanwhile, are likelier to pursue de Cuyper. With Andy Robertson the wrong side of 30, the Reds are said to be keen on strengthening their options on the left-hand side of defence.
Find out who is in Manchester City’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here
