HomeExclusives Sun 6 October 2024 11:00, UK

Man City have been laying the groundwork for a deal to sign Atalanta midfielder Ederson, sources have told Football Insider.

Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider's Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O'Rourke revealed that the defending Premier League champions have named Ederson as a potential target to replace Rodri.

Pep Guardiola is set to be without the Spain international for a prolonged period of time after suffering a serious knee injury, which is why the club are looking to enter the transfer market.

Ederson thrived last season for Atalanta and played a key role in their run to win the Europa League.

The 25-year-old played 53 games in all competitions for the Italian side last season, scoring seven goals and providing one assist.

Numerous clubs were credited with interest in Ederson during the summer transfer window, including Man City's Premier League rivals Liverpool.

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Man City will face competition to sign Ederson If Guardiola wants to add Ederson to his squad, then he will face serious competition, as Liverpool have looked at him as an option for the number six position.

Football Insider revealed that signing a player in that position is a high priority for Arne Slot, which could lead the club back to the Atalanta star.

Guardiola is also working on a strategy to try and find somebody within his squad to replace Rodri, rather than buying someone.

Rico Lewis started in midfield alongside Mateo Kovacic against Newcastle, while Matheus Nunes and Ilkay Gundogan took on those roles in midweek.

Man City drew their first Premier League game without Rodri last weekend and they will be back in action against Fulham on Saturday (5 October).

In other news, Phil Foden sends message to Man City fans after his dismal start to season.