Lyon plot move for Manchester City defender who they prefer to teammate Eliaquim Mangala

SUNDERLAND, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 19: Jason Denayer of Sunderland reacts during the Premier League match between Sunderland and Hull City at Stadium of Light on November 19, 2016 in Sunderland, England. (Photo by Chris Brunskill/Getty Images)

After he arrived in Lyon on Tuesday and held talks with the Ligue 1 side, the future of Manchester City outcast Eliaquim Mangala appeared to be back in France.

But following claims of a medical that turned out to be false, things have gone quiet on the topic of Mangala to Lyon, with L’Equipe suggesting that he also has interest from clubs in Italy and elsewhere to consider.

And today L’Equipe has broken a story that may explain the silence, with a report that Lyon are not convinced that Man City’s €20 million (£17.6 million) asking price for the 26-year-old represents value for money. Additionally, some within the club are not convinced by Mangala’s profile and considering his other options, he is a possibility but not a definite target at this stage.

It is one of Mangala’s City teammates who is suddenly more appealing to the French team, with Jason Denayer of great interest to them. Lyon tried to sign the 21-year-old Belgian international two years ago and have a long-standing interest, and it is reported that they are now prioritising a deal for Denayer over Mangala.

The suggestions have been that Denayer will be loaned out again next season, and he is one of seven from City that newly-promoted La Liga club Girona FC want on loan.

Lyon are already working on a deal to sign Denayer, who would cost less and they feel could be a better investment in the long-term than Mangala. And with City open to selling a number of fringe players this season, a tempting offer from Lyon could lead to them cashing in on Denayer.

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