Manchester City is about to make a big splash in the January window, as the club is reportedly confident that they can acquire current Real Madrid midfielder Isco this week according to The Daily Star. The deal could be worth as much as $51.7 Million.
The talented Spaniard was considered to be one of the country's top young talents, but since joining Real Madrid, his progress has stalled. The 23-year-old Isco is unhappy with his playing time at Madrid and would like a move that would give him first team minutes. However, Madrid will not accept less than $44.3 million, the Daily Mail noted.
After top end talents Karim Benzema, James Rodriguez, Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo, Madrid manager Rafael Benitez normally looks to Isco for scoring support. However, Isco hasn't made an appearance since a 1-0 loss against Villarreal CF on Dec. 13, and Isco was passed over by Benetiz in Real's 10-2 win over Rayo Vallecano on Dec. 20, according to Bleacher Report. When asked why he left the striker on the bench, Benetiz was tight-lipped, according to Dermot Corrigan noted.
A move to the Premier League may be the change of scenery that Isco needs. The midfielder played under current Man City manager Manuel Pellegrini from 2011-2013 when the two were with Spanish side Malaga, according to The Mirror. Isco was set to join Pellegrini at Etihad in 2013, but Real Madrid took the $34 million deal from Man City. Isco's history with Pellegrini, along with an aging Manchester City midfield, could mean a perfect fit for Isco.
In the event that City were to acquire Isco, it is likely that the club would have to part ways with French mid fielder Sam Nasri, who is currently sidelined after completing surgery in November.
City is not the only club vying for Isco's services. Premier League rivals Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool have all expressed interest in Isco, while Italian side Juventus is also linked to Isco, according to Metro.
It will come down to Real Madrid listening to offers from all sides and determining if the price is right.
