Manchester City have identified Alexis Mac Allister as a potential successor to Ilkay Gundogan, according to reports in Spain.
Gundogan's current contract with the Blues expires this summer, with the lack of progression over a new deal leading to speculation that the midfielder could call time on an eight-year spell at the Etihad. The 32-year-old continues to catch eyes in Barcelona with the Spanish side having failed to land him last year.
As part of a contingency plan for losing their club captain, those in charge at City are exploring potential successors that can be snapped up efficiently in the off-season. And according to Fichajes, Pep Guardiola's side have decided on Brighton's Mac Allister as the first choice.
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Mac Allister has been one of the Premier League's standout players this season, helping Roberto de Zerbi's side climb to sixth where they are genuinely competing for European football. The 24-year-old also starred for Argentina as they won a first World Cup since 1986, registering one goal and one assist in six appearances.
But with the midfielder contracted on the south coast until 2025, Brighton will be under no pressure to sell their man and have become well known for their uncompromising approach to sales, meaning any offer will need to be a big one.
Elsewhere, Arsenal have reportedly accelerated talks to extend Bukayo Saka's contract amid interest from City.
Saka's current contract was due to run out this summer, although the Gunners triggered an option to extend that for another 12 months. And according to talkSPORT, Mikel Arteta's side have prioritised a new deal for the England international in a bid to fend off interest from the Etihad.
Much like Mac Allister, Saka has been pivotal in his side's success this season. The winger has seven goals and seven assists in 20 Premier League appearances, with his side currently five points clear at the top of the table - although that lead can be cut to three points should City beat Tottenham on Sunday.
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