Manchester City Ready To Swoop For Diego - Report

According to the News of the World, Manchester City have turned their attention to Werder Bremen star Diego as they continue their quest for a marquee signing this winter.

The Sky Blues were expected to complete a world-record deal for Kaka last week, but the Brazilian opted to remain with AC Milan even though he stood to earn close to €300,000 per week in England.

It was a huge blow for the Eastlands upstarts, who had hoped to team up the former FIFA World Player of the Year with the in-form Stephen Ireland and new signing Nigel de Jong in midfield.

But manager Mark Hughes hasn't wasted much time identifying his second choice to take the playmaking reins, if these tabloid reports are to be believed.

It is understood that the Citizens are ready to launch a €27 million bid for Diego, who is expected to leave Germany in the summer at the very latest.

The 23-year-old is coveted by some of Europe's top teams, with Juventus - who are hoping to replace the retiring Pavel Nedved - long tipped as the most likely destination.

However, the former Porto player is on the record as saying he will go to the highest bidder; and with City prepared to offer him over €190,000 per week, they could well sway the Brazilian international.

Also in the Premier League club's favour is the presence of Robinho, Diego's close friend, compatriot and former Santos team-mate.

Mike Maguire, Goal.com