Tuesday, 21st June, 2011
Manchester City are ready to switch their attention to another Serie A star if they lose out to Barcelona in the race to snap up Udinese forward Alexis Sanchez.
Reports from Italy now suggest that Roberto Mancini has focused in on Lazio hitman Mauro Zarate as an alternative to Sanchez. According to Sky Sport 24, Mancini has eyed Zarate for some time, although Sanchez always remained the Italian’s first choice target.
The 24-year-old enjoyed an impressive campaign with Lazio last season and was a big part of the club’s unexpected topping of the Serie A table before falling away. Indeed, a season that promised so much for the Rome club ended in disappointment as Sanchez and co. pipped Edy Reja’s men to the all-important fourth spot.
But despite Zarate’s importance to Lazio, there remains the possibility an approach from City will not be shunned, especially if the bid is a substantial one.
The Argentine had a troubled relationship with Reja last season, with the veteran Italian coach unhappy at his failure to follow tactical instructions. However, Zarate continues to be rated by Lazio as one of their elite performers.
Mancini himself will also be aware that the striker has prior experience of English football, having spent time on loan at Birmingham City in 2008 before opting for a loan and then permanent move to Lazio ahead of a stay at Blues.
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