Two more Mark Hughes’ signings continue to be linked with various clubs to differing degrees as Roberto Mancini strives to narrow down his imminent squad list options…
City legend in every sense of the word Shaun Wright-Phillips who next to no Blue wants to see leave is the subject of a strong bid from cash rich Ligue 1 strugglers Paris Saint-Germain. PSG have started the season in dreary fashion and are looking to SWP to spark their side into life.
The City and England winger’s agent has confirmed the French bid, but also that ongoing interest, if with lesser financial clout from Sunday’s opponents Bolton Wanderers does appeal to the settled Blue.
Meanwhile, City left back Wayne Bridge who is hopelessly out of favour at SportCity is the subject of on/off interest from Newcastle United who are preparing to face Sunderland this weekend.
Once again, hefty Etihad Stadium salaries are proving an exit door stumbling block. The Magpies are waiting on a costly pursuit of PSV’s Erik Pieters before renewing interest in Bridge.
A factor of Roberto Mancini’s tenure and the Brian Marwood/Gary Cook steered era in Manchester has been the preference to sign young international players ahead of new financial regulations in the bid to establish a settled squad for years to come.
Clearly SWP who turns 30 years old this autumn and Bridge who turned 31 this month are drifting out of that strategy. 30 year old Gareth Barry is now City’s oldest first team regular.
SWP City Factfile
01 Jul 98 to 18 Jul 05:
151 League and Cup Starts, 31 goals
– Sold for £21,000,000 to Chelsea
– Signed for £9,000,000 from Chelsea
28 Aug 08 to present:
72 League and Cup Starts, 15 goals
Wayne Bridge City Factfile
– Signed for £12,000,000 from Chelsea
03 Jan 09 to present:
54 League and Cup Starts, 0 goals
UPCOMING FIXTURES:
all times GMT+1
Su 21 Aug 16:00 Bolton, Reebok Stadium, PL
Su 28 Aug 13:30 Spurs, White Hart Lane, PL
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