Transfer Zone

Manchester City & Fiorentina Chasing 'Little Maradona'

Manchester City have lodged a bid for Salernitana's Peruvian midfielder Roberto Merino, who has been likened to a "little Maradona" by his agent...

Jun 4, 2009 11:16:11 AM

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Roberto Merino

With Gareth Barry's transfer sealed, Manchester City are reportedly set to boost their midfield further with the signing of Roberto Merino from Italian side Salernitana, according to the player's agent Jose Alberti. Fiorentina are also interested in the player.

"He is the kind of player that forces the defending team to pick up at least four bookings per game because he is really fantastic," Alberti proudly explained to Mediagol.

"Right now he has received an offer from Manchester City and another one from one of the clubs that want him. We have been contacted by Fiorentina, and wearing the purple shirt next season would be an honour for Merino. He is really a little Maradona."

If the Viola choose to follow up their interest in Merino, City will face stiff competition for the player's signature. At 27-years-old, Merino is also something of a journeyman after only joining the Serie B outfit earlier this year. The Peruvian stands at only 5ft 5in, which may hamper the former Servette player in the physical Premier League.

Anthony Wright, Goal.com