Manchester City remain confident of winning the race to sign Dani Alves, despite interest from two Premier League title rivals.
The 34-year-old has been released from his Juventus contract 12 months early, despite an impressive debut campaign in which he helped the Bianconeri retain their Serie A title and reach the UEFA Champions League final. Alves played 33 times in all competitions for the Italian giants, and scored six goals as well as registering a total of seven assists.
His release from Juve was confirmed last week, and even though he is in the final stages of his glittering career, he is certainly one of the most attractive free transfers of recent seasons. Prior to moving to Turin, the Brazil international spent eight seasons at Barcelona, during which time he won six La Liga titles, four Copa del Rey trophies, and three Champions Leagues.
His first four years at the Camp Nou were spent with Pep Guardiola, and it looks certain that the two will work together again next season at the Etihad Stadium. The City boss has made Alves a top target as he looks to reshape his side, and despite rival interest from Tottenham Hotspur and champions Chelsea, he expects to complete a deal to land the player during the course of the week.
This could end Guardiola’s interest in taking Kyle Walker from White Hart Lane. At one point it looked likely that the Spurs fullback would move to Manchester, but his club have placed a price tag in excess of £40million on his head which has forced City to think again. Should the England international stay at his current club, he could start the new campaign as back-up to Kieran Trippier.
