Manchester City playmaker under investigation for allegedly breaching doping rules

It was always assumed that Samir Nasri would depart Manchester City during this summer’s transfer window, but the club could be forced to keep hold of the Frenchman, it has emerged.

Mike Keegan of the Daily Mail reports that Nasri is being probed by UEFA for an alleged breach of doping rules after he received an IV drip at an intravenous therapy clinic in LA in December 2016.

If found guilty of any wrongdoing, the playmaker would face a ban of up to four years from professional football, inevitably putting off potential suitors.

This has led club officials to become concerned that they may have to keep hold of an ineligible player.

The 30-year-old has two years left on his £120,000-a-week contract, meaning the Blues may be forced to pay out £12.5 million in wages to Nasri.

Nasri enjoyed an impressive loan spell at Sevilla last season, quickly cementing a place in Jorge Sampaoli’s side, but it speaks volumes that the Spanish club decided against purchasing the player permanently.

AC Milan, Galatasaray, Fenerbahce and a whole host of Chinese clubs have been linked with Nasri in recent weeks, but a move is unlikely while the uncertainty surrounding his career remains.

Keegan also reports that City could seek legal advice and explore their options with regards to the player’s contract if he does indeed receive a ban.