Aleks Zinchenko is set to sign a new contract at Manchester City, with Pep Guardiola giving the converted winger the chance to establish himself as first-choice left-back next season.
The Ukraine international’s outstanding form during the Premier League champions’ domestic treble-winning campaign has convinced Guardiola to scrap plans to strengthen on the left of defence.
Benjamin Mendy will also be given the opportunity to prove his fitness after two injury-ravaged years – but Zinchenko is now seen as direct competition to the £49m man.
Guardiola had intended to bring in a top-class left-back this summer after growing frustrated with Mendy’s injury problems, the France international suffering knee ligament damage in his first season and had an operation on his meniscus last term.
Leicester’s Ben Chilwell was a leading target but Zinchenko’s performances since the turn of the year have prompted a rethink.
City were prepared to sell him to Wolves last summer but will now reward the England international with a new long-term deal, which is due to be confirmed imminently.
Guardiola, though, is ready to strengthen at right-back, with City prepared to sell Danilo for the right price. Inter Milan are interested in the Brazil international, who has grown frustrated by his lack of regular first-team football as back up to Kyle Walker.
Juventus’ Joao Cancelo has been identified as the preferred replacement and the 25-year-old would be expected to provide fiercer competition for Walker.
The Portugal international was outstanding for Juventus in their Serie A triumph last season and is the type of attack-minded full-back Guardiola insists on having in his teams.
