Manchester City finally agree fee for top transfer target

Manchester City have made a breakthrough in discussions for Jorginho after agreeing an initial £43m fee with Napoli, reports The Guardian.

The Premier League champions have been locked in talks with Napoli since the end of last season after identifying Jorginho as a top transfer target this summer.

Jorginho is desperate to join Pep Guardiola’s side and now City are on the verge of making their first signing of the summer after successfully negotiating Napoli down from their £52m valuation.

City have agreed an initial fee worth £43m but that could rise by a further £5m through performance related add-ons.

The Italy international is now expected to join City before the end of the month and will put pen to paper on a five-year deal with Guardiola’s side.

Jorginho is regarded as one of the best central midfielders in Europe and his arrival will only bolster Guardiola’s options ahead of next season.

The City head coach has made strengthening midfield a top priority this summer following the departure of Yaya Toure, coupled with the fact Fernandinho is 33.

Not only did Jorginho average more passes per game (96.9) than any other player in Europe’s top five leagues last season, but the 26-year-old also won possession the middle third more times than any other Serie A player (173).