City eye big money move for Barca midfielder

Manchester City have been linked with a big-money move for Barcelona midfielder Sergio Busquest.

Russian newspaper Express report that Zenit St. Petersberg are eyeing up a bid for the 24-year-old in the January transfer window, but could face competition from Manchester City for his signature.

Zenit splashed the cash in the summer window, snapping up Hulk from Porto and Benfica’s Axel Witsel for a combined fee of around £60 million.

However the Russia outfit have made a stuttering start to the new season amidst rumours of a revolt from some established players angry at the money involved in bringing Hulk and Witsel to the club.

According to Express, coach Luciano Spalletti is keen on adding to his squad further when the winter transfer window opens.

There is little suggestion that Barcelona would be willing to let one of their key players walk away from the club, although the fact that Alex Song arrived from Arsenal over the summer means they would be covered in that area should he leave.

Express report that a bid of around £26 million would be enough to lure Busquets away from Barcelona, with Manchester City also said to be interested in landing the Spanish international.

Roberto Mancini appears well stocked with defensive midfielders following the arrival of Javi Garcia at the Etihad Stadium in the summer, while Gareth Barry and Yaya Toure also operate in a similar area for the Citizens.

City have made an inconsistent start to their Premier League title defence so far while they have only picked up two points from their opening two Champions League games – something which may force Mancini to act when the transfer window opens in January.