City to meet Mangala’s release clause

French newspaper L’Equipe has learned that Manchester City have launched an assault on FC Porto defender Eliaquim Mangala.

The highly rated defender has been on the radar of top European clubs, but the Portuguese club’s high asking price proved to be an obstacle to any deal.

Nevertheless, L’Equipe understands that Manchester City have informed the Dragons they are prepared to meet the player’s €45 million release clause.

Mangala would see his €1 million yearly wage quadrupled at Eastlands, but the Frenchman is having second thoughts about a move to England as he is not sure he would be able to command a starting berth at Etihad Stadium.

Manchester City have been trying to sign a high-profile defender ever since the summer transfer window started and they decided to splash the cash on Mangala after captain Vincent Kompany was ruled out for a month.

It remains to be seen whether the Citizens can persuade the 22-year-old that his future lies in England.