According to reports from Mirror Football, Pep Guardiola wants Manchester City to hijack Chelsea’s £24million deal for Arsenal target Riechedly Bazoer.
The 19-year-old has been dubbed the ‘new Frank Rijkaard’ for the physicality, control and maturity he brings to the middle of the park and has impressed for Ajax this season, bagging four goals and three assists in 21 Eredivisie outings.
The one-cap Netherlands international has been on Arsenal’s radar for the best part of three years and the Gunners’ interest was documented once again earlier this month.
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But Chelsea have been in talks with Bazoer for some time and Mirror Football claim talks over a £24million deal have now reached advanced stages, after brother and agent Irchandley visited the club’s Coban training complex last week.
However, the British newspaper further report that incoming manager Pep Guardiola wants Manchester City to hijack Chelsea’s pursuit of the prodigious teenager as he plans for his first transfer window at the Etihad.
Bazoer is known to be fond of Barcelona and could therefore be inclined to link up with the former Nou Camp boss. But Chelsea are hopeful Guus Hiddink’s presence in west London, having overseen the youngster’s development whilst technical director at PSV, will see them seal a £24million deal.