Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini is ready to make an ambitious bid to sign Chelsea defender David Luiz, according to Italian website Mercato365.

The move would be a part of Mancini’s attempt to spruce up his squad’s wavering defensive line, though the overall strength of his team remains solid, and so some might question the need to spend what is expected to be a whopping £35m on the player. Some might be felt that the star pairing of Vincent Kompany and Joleon Lescot might be enough to keep the team on an even keel but Luiz has reportedly caught the eye of Mancini.

Though Chelsea have not been frugal this summer, it seems unlikely that owner Roman Abramovich would wish to offload the Brazilian international, especially to a rival squad, though Mancini appears keen to spend this summer, and the sizeable tune of £35m might be enough to change their minds, given the paltry £21m they originally paid for him from Benfica 18 months ago.

That said, Luiz is greatly admired at Stamford Bridge, and a move would prove disquieting to many fans, especially given his pivotal role in Chelsea’s recent Champions League success.

Since signing with the team, Luiz has racked up 53 appearances, resulting in FA Cup and Champions League winners medals. Despite that glory and fanfare, money does have a habit of talking.

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