City eyeing shock move to bring former star back to The Etihad

Manchester City are ready to make a shock move to bring Jerome Boateng back to The Etihad Stadium this summer, according to reports.

The Sun, Mirror and Daily Star all report that the Blues are ready to launch an audacious bid for the Germany international come the end of the season.

Boateng left City in 2011 and has been with Bayern Munich ever since, however after seven seasons with the Bundesliga giants, he is reportedly seeking a fresh challenge.

Pep Guardiola is understood to be a huge admirer of Boateng having worked with the 29-year-old during his spell at the Allianz Arena.

The defender was a staple part of Guardiola’s Bayern that won three consecutive Bundesliga titles between 2013 and 2016, and the Spaniard believe Boateng can help bolster his defence at Manchester City.

Guardiola is looking for a long-term replacement for the ageing Vincent Kompany and also wants to add experience to help the progression of both John Stones and Aymeric Laporte.

City are not alone in their pursuit of Boateng however.

Rivals Manchester United are understood to keen on the Germany international, as are Barcelona and Real Madrid.

Boateng has been limited to only 16 Bundesliga starts this season after having suffered back-to-back injuries.