Manchester City have turned their attention to Everton forward Iliman Ndiaye as they look to bolster their attacking ranks before Tuesday's transfer deadline, though the Merseyside club are said to be holding out for around £80m for the Senegal international.
The interest in Ndiaye comes in the wake of Savio's £75m move to Tottenham Hotspur, a departure that has left a gap in City's wide areas. Compounding matters, Omar Marmoush is expected to join Spurs on a season-long loan, prompting head coach Enzo Maresca to seek reinforcements up front.
Ndiaye, who has earned 44 caps for Senegal and remains under contract at Goodison Park until 2029, is understood to be admired by Maresca personally. Everton's valuation, however, could complicate any move, especially with City already committing significant funds elsewhere this window.
On Monday, City agreed a deal worth €37.5m (roughly £34m) to sign Palmeiras winger Allan Elias, further illustrating the club's determination to refresh their forward line. Liverpool's Cody Gakpo has also emerged as a player under consideration should the Ndiaye deal not materialize.
Beyond the search for attacking talent, Maresca has been vocal about his desire to bring in leadership figures before the window shuts. City's squad has undergone a notable shift in experience this summer following the exits of Bernardo Silva, Rodri, John Stones and Nathan Aké — all of whom carried significant standing in the dressing room.
Rúben Dias and Erling Haaland have already been designated as captains by Maresca, but the Italian coach is keen to add further options to that leadership group. Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández, who has previously captained the Blues, is understood to be a key target in this regard.
Chelsea had set a deadline of 14 August for City to submit a formal bid for the 25-year-old, and while that date passed without an offer being lodged, City are still expected to pursue a deal for Fernández before the window closes.
Discussing the broader need for experience within his squad, Maresca said: