Manchester City want to sign West Brom's Jonny Evans
Manchester City have had two bids - the second worth £18million - rejected by West Brom for their star centre-back Evans.
Former Manchester United player Evans still has two years on his contract at West Brom, who are under no pressure to sell.
But City’s riches and their push to sign more defenders before the transfer window closes means a deal could be struck.
And former Chelsea great Nevin says Evans is a smart choice after City missed out on Van Dijk.
“Along with every other top club Van Dijk would have been the perfect fit,” Nevin said on 5Live.
“But I don’t think they’re going to get him.
“So Jonny Evans, a big thing about centre-backs is he’s 29. He’s coming into his peak period. Lots of other players you buy him them 29 and they don’t have a sell-on (value).
“But they’re not worried about a sell-on, they’re buying him at his peak.”
Southampton are determined not to sell Van Dijk, who has handed in a transfer request.
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Liverpool remain favourites to sign the Dutchman, with Chelsea also keen, although a deal would likely cost the Reds around £60m.
As for Evans, Nevin thinks the Northern Irishman could be a crucial signing for City if he does make the move to the Etihad.
“It makes sense,” Nevin said. “It’ll probably be a little bit more than £10m.
“Manchester City have been exposed. They’ve got a weakness there, they have got a problem and someone has to come in there. There could be one or two injuries and centre-back is the area.”
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