City in pole for Giovani

Barca starlet to have English talks

By Francisco Acedo   Last updated: 8th May 2008

City in pole for Giovani

Giovani on City agenda

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Manchester City are favourites to seal a deal for Barcelona starlet Giovani dos Santos, the player's father has confirmed.

The young Mexican seems set to leave Camp Nou this summer and a host of clubs are now jostling to seal his signature.

But City look to be in pole position ahead of the likes of Premier League rivals Chelsea and Liverpool.

The player's father - former Brazilian international Zizinho - has confirmed to the Mexican press that City have made their move.

"The news is certain, but the subject is in the hands of the agent," Zizinho revealed.

"We would prefer much discretion until the end of the season.

"We will not decide, but Barca know the situation as we have had contact with sporting director Txiki Beguiristain.

"Our objective now is for him to finish the season with Barcelona at a good level and then we will speak."

English interest

Zizinho then confirmed that City were amongst a host of English clubs in the hunt.

"Other English clubs have demanded information about Giovani but the main chance is City," he added.

Barcelona have a wealth of forward options which is why Giovani will seemingly be allowed to leave - with former youth colleague Bojan now very much the talk of Catalunya.

It is believed Barca are willing to let Giovani go for 10 million euros (£7.8million), although they are also open to the idea of a season-long loan but any club would have to take over the whole of his salary.

Giovani's current deal has three-years left to run.