Manchester City Transfer News: Juventus Eye Fernandinho Amid Contract Rumours

Juventus are reportedly exploring the possibility of signing Manchester City midfielder Fernandinho amid speculation the Brazilian may not sign a contract extension at the Etihad Stadium.

The 31-year-old has a little more than six months remaining on the four-year deal he signed with City in 2013, and Italian outlet Calciomercato (h/t Goal) reported Juventus are sniffing around his signature.

Fernandinho is yet to agree to a contract extension at the Etihad, meaning Juve could land their man for free next summer or bring him in for a reduced price this winter—as long as City prove willing to let him leave the club.

However, Bleacher Report's Jack Lusby has testified to the quizzical nature of the defensive midfielder being allowed to run so close to the expiration of his contract:

Despite the fact Fernandinho will turn 32 in May, the South American star could be a valued member in Serie A, a league that has a reputation for giving players chances further into the latter stages of their careers.

Fernandinho has been an important player in his City career, and with Yaya Toure only now recovering his place under manager Pep Guardiola, the Brazilian has proved himself as a staple this season.

He's yet to miss a minute of City's 2016-17 Premier League campaign,and he has even captained the team on two occasions—against Bournemouth and Burnley—raising the question as to whether he'll be permitted to leave.

The anchor doesn't come without his weaknesses, however, and Match of the Day attested to his tendency to show a bit too much aggression following a recent sending off against Borussia Monchengladbach in the UEFA Champions League:

Juventus already have the likes of Sami Khedira, Kwadwo Asamoah and Claudio Marchisio among their midfield ranks, but Fernandinho could provide a similar presence for good value if he becomes available.

Manager Massimiliano Allegri would be getting his hands on a player who prefers to stand back and let the play develop ahead, as recently illustrated by Empire of the Kop:

Goal pointed out Juventus have also been associated with moves for Zenit St Petersburg's Axel Witsel and Blaise Matuidi of Paris Saint-Germain, but Fernandinho would likely be their most affordable option.

The Bianconeri are still searching for the successor to Paul Pogba, now returned to Manchester United, and it could be the Red Devils' greatest rivals who happen to provide the heir to his throne.