Man City 'target Serie A star as Ederson's replacement' but face paying 'indecent' fee to lure the goalkeeper away from Italian giants

Manchester City have identified Juventus goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio as a replacement for current No.1 Ederson, according to reports.

Pep Guardiola is scrutinising his next recruitment options ahead of the January transfer window opening amidst the club’s current dismal run of form.

Much of the discussion surrounding City’s recent struggles has focused on the goalkeeping department with both Ederson and Stefan Ortega being trusted in recent defeats.

One of those losses came in a 2-0 Champions League defeat against Juventus on December 11 and the best goalkeeper on that night was the Italian team’s shot-stopper.

Di Gregorio was voted the best goalkeeper in Serie A at the end of last season after starring for Monza before choosing to join Juventus where he signed a contract until 2029.

Now, City are considering launching their own bid for the 27-year-old who has been identified as capable of starring for the reigning Premier League champions, as reported by Calcio Mercato.

Ederson’s future at Man City remains uncertain with Pep Guardiola expected to be active in the January transfer window

However, Juventus view the Italian as a player for the future and aren’t in an active position to sell given the player only joined them less than 12 months ago following a standout campaign.

Juventus previously only forked out a fee in the region of £12m to bring the talented goalkeeper to the Old Lady. 

Such a predicament would require City to pay what Juventus regard as an ‘indecent proposal’ to secure Di Gregorio’s services as the club weigh up making changes between the posts.

City’s interest comes at a time when the futures of both Ederson and back-up goalkeeper Ortega remain in doubt.

Ederson has been a key figure during City’s recent years of English and European excellence, but has previously flirted with the prospect of securing a big-money move to Saudi Arabia.

Di Gregorio recently starred in Juventus’ 2-0 win over Man City in the Champions League

The Brazilian’s current contract runs until 2026 and there have been indications that he will consider leaving the Etihad at the end of his existing deal if not sooner.

Ortega has previously been viewed as his natural successor but has struggled during a turbulent season for the club.