Man City make contact with West Brom over Jonny Evans

This comes after reports that Guardiola is still keen on Real Sociedad's Inigo Martinez, whose release clause stands at £28.5 million, but buying both the Spanish defender and Evans might not be feasible this window. As a result, the Manchester club appear to have turned their attention to the Northern Irish international who has 18 months left on his contract and could reportedly be available for around £20 million.

They could face stiff competition, however, as it is alleged that their Manchester rivals, United, have asked West Brom to keep them up-to-date with any developments regarding the player's status, while West Ham have also made an inquiry.   

Arsene Wenger stated earlier that his team would not be able to compete financially with City for the 30-year-old. 'If the decision comes to finances against Manchester City, we know we will be second best,' the Frenchman admitted.

With lots of options available, it seems hard-pressed for the Midlands side to hold on to their prize defender.