Lucas Paqueta, described as a “magician” by journalist Robbie Mustoe, has long been on Guardiola’s radar. Before signing Nunes in the summer, Paqueta was Guardiola’s top goal, and the club even made an offer for the midfielder. City are’ready’ to make another bid for the West Ham star.

According to The Mail, citing TEAMtalk, the Brazil international has a ‘£86m release clause in his contract’ that will become ‘active’ in the summer. The 26-year-old would be able to give immediate support for De Bruyne, Mateo Kovacic, and Nunes, and he would be eager to earn a starting berth.

Indeed, Guardiola’s signing of Paqueta would be a spectacular one, and he would likely hope that his versatility would allow him to serve as a sort of ‘understudy’ to star man De Bruyne in the coming years.

Furthermore, despite playing a vital part for the Cityzens this season, appearing in 35 games and scoring 13 goals, Silva has been connected with leaving the club. So, if his departure occurs, Paqueta may be a great substitute for Guardiola next season, making the move even more practical.