Manchester City Transfer News: Latest Rumours on Bernardo Silva, Alexis Sanchez

AS Monaco playmaker Bernardo Silva reportedly flew to Manchester on Thursday night, with Manchester City said to be the favourites to secure his signature.

According to James Robson of the Manchester Evening News, the Portugal international arrived in town from Mallorca. While Manchester United have also been linked with the 22-year-old star, it's suggested City are the player's most likely destination.

Sam Lee of Goal reported City are close to signing the playmaker, with Silva set to undergo a medial on Friday.

"[Pep] Guardiola already has a wealth of options in attacking midfield in the form of David Silva, Ilkay Gundogan and Kevin De Bruyne," Robson said. "But just last month he suggested he wanted more quality in that department."

Silva has been one of the most exciting footballers to watch during the 2016-17 season. Here’s a reminder of his brilliant campaign:

Monaco impressed plenty of people with the pace and power they have in all areas of the pitch. But Silva offers something a little different.

Typically utilised on the right flank, the diminutive creator floats inside, finds space and probes opposition defences. Silva is so difficult to rob possession from, as he's balanced, composed and has a nifty turn of pace.

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As mentioned, City have a lot of options in this part of the field, and Alex Shaw of ESPN isn't convinced Guardiola should be seeking to strengthen this section of the team:

"

I know David Silva is getting on a bit but he's still ace. Man City simply don't need to sign players in the position Bernardo Silva plays?

— Alex Shaw (@AlexShawESPN) May 26, 2017"

The best sides don't stand still, though. Although Silva may seem like an indulgence given City's attacking strength, the Portuguese's intelligence and adaptability would make him a huge asset. Additionally, at 22, he could become a mainstay at the Etihad Stadium for years to come.

Based on his performances this season, Silva would also fancy his chances of usurping his namesake, De Bruyne or even Raheem Sterling and Leroy Sane in one of the wide berths. Plenty of clubs across Europe would be looking on enviously at the options available to Guardiola should the Monaco man arrive.

Bayern Munich Provide Alexis Sanchez Competition

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According to Robson, Bayern Munich have emerged as City's main rivals to sign Arsenal forward Alexis Sanchez.

"The German champions believe the Arsenal striker is intent on a move to the Allianz Arena and are prepared to offer him a deal worth £230,000 per week," it's reported.

Guardiola is said to have made the 28-year-old his "top target" for the summer, with City ready to part with £50 million for his signature. "But there is a growing feeling at Bayern that Sanchez will choose them ahead of City," Robson added.

Speculation has been rife about Sanchez's future, as he only has one year remaining on his deal at the Emirates Stadium. As we can see, the Chilean seems to have plenty of options:

If City were to get him on board, then they'd be signing one of the best players in the Premier League.

Sanchez ended the season with 24 goals and 10 assists in the league, blossoming at the point of the attack and in an advanced role from the left-hand side. There aren't many players in world football who can combine such a raw edge with composure and inventiveness on the ball.

They're qualities Guardiola typically craves from his forwards, with Sanchez's versatility meaning he would be a massive asset anywhere across the front three for City if he were to join. However, Bayern would naturally be a hugely tempting proposition for the forward too.