Atletico star could be Fernandinho’s successor at City

Manchester - Manchester City are being linked with Atletico Madrid midfielder Thomas Partey as the search for Fernandinho’s long-term successor continues.

Fernandinho will turn 34 in a couple of months, and Pep Guardiola is keen to draft in someone who is capable of filling his boots at the Etihad Stadium for years to come.

After missing out on Jorginho, who signed for Chelsea last summer, the search has been stepped up with Wolves star Ruben Neves among the players to be linked.

Now reports are claiming that Atleti midfielder Partey is a top target and a priority for Guardiola as he continues to impress for Diego Simeone’s men in La Liga this season.

The 25-year-old has also been likened to City legend Yaya Toure and a bid looks to be in the pipeline.

It has also been suggested that City could offer Ilkay Gundogan, who has yet to agree fresh terms on a new deal with the club, as part of a swap deal.