Man City transfer target speaks out as Prem champions 'line up new £30m bid'

Manchester City target Samuele Ricci insists he is not thinking about a transfer despite the Premier League champions reportedly lining up a £30million bid. Pep Guardiola is desperate for reinforcements before the January transfer window closes on February 3.

City have had a difficult start to the season, although they have won four of their last five matches in all competitions. The 6-0 defeat to Ipswich on Sunday showed that Guardiola's side are on an upward trajectory.

However, signings are expected to be made to beef up the Spaniard's small squad. According to numerous reports in the Italian media, Torino midfielder Ricci is a target and could be available for £30 million.

The Italian international said this weekend: “I don't think about it, I've been playing for a while and I've gotten to know the environment. When things go well, comparisons happen, it also happened to me at Empoli.

“You have to keep your feet on the ground, there is always gossip in the newspapers and on social networks, one leads to the other. You have to think about playing, having fun and improving day after day.

Ricci has been one of Italy's most impressive midfielders this season. The 23-year-old has played in each of Torino's 21 Serie A matches and has captained the side in their last four appearances.

Eintracht Frankfurt striker Omar Marmoush and Lens defender Abdukodir Khusanov have also been heavily linked with City.

However, Guardiola was delighted with his current players after beating Ipswich in the Premier League.

“We're really happy, we're back doing things that have defined this team over the last 10 years. Really happy for the three points and to get into Champions League qualification for next season, it will be very difficult,” City said. said the boss.

“Much better. Maybe not our best but closer with the consistency we have in our game. Most of them didn't happen in previous games that we won.

“With the way we went without the ball, you can't play in tight spaces. Everyone who had the ball was smart, quicker, quicker. Everyone is linked. You can't be quick, wise and good if you are not connected defensively.

“Ipswich beat Chelsea here, they won at Spurs. They're a good team and Liam [Delap] is a fantastic striker. The players have seen what we are and that’s the best thing.”