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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
Matthew Hobkinson

Man City 'explored' signing of Newcastle ace before Erling Haaland and more transfer rumours

Manchester City reportedly rejected Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak before they signed Erling Haaland this summer.

In the wake of Sergio Aguero's departure from the club in the summer of 2021, it was clear that City needed a striker to replace him. Gabriel Jesus was deemed surplus to requirements in the end after his move to Arsenal, as Haaland would ultimately be brought in to lead the line for Pep Guardiola's side.

However, according to the Athletic, the Blues decided against signing Isak before his move to Newcastle. It is reported that the Swede failed to convince the club that he could meed the club's demanding standards, leading them to turn to the Norwegian instead.

ALSO READ: Why Pep Guardiola decided to sign new Man City contract

With 23 goals scored in 18 appearances so far, Haaland has not only brought praise on his own performances, but also that of City's ambition and drive, as they refused to settle for anything less than the best.

Elsewhere, TuttoMercatoWeb (via Sport Witness) report that City are keeping tabs on Monza’s Nicolò Rovella.

The Juventus midfielder is on loan at the Serie A side, and the 20-year-old has fast established himself as one of the key players for the club. It is claimed City's scouts have closely followed the youngster’s development in recent weeks, as they have been impressed with what they have seen.

The Italy U21 international is under contract with Juventus until 2026 however, meaning that City would likely have to spend big to pry him away from Turin in the near future.

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