ESPN FC's Mark Ogden explains why he's doubtful Manchester City's late move for Riyad Mahrez will pan out.
Everton are close to completing a season-long loan deal for Manchester City defender Eliaquim Mangala, sources have told ESPN FC.
France international Mangala, who became the world's most expensive defender when he signed for City from Porto for £42m in 2014, had also been a target for Valencia and Newcastle this month.
Despite making 15 first-team appearances for City this season, the arrival of £57m club record signing Aymeric Laporte from Athletic Bilbao has persuaded Mangala to seek a switch.
And Everton manager Sam Allardyce has made a late move for the 26-year-old as he looks to bolster Everton's defensive options ahead of the final four months of the season.
City are keen to offload Mangala in order to reduce their wage bill following the arrival of Laporte and a permanent transfer, either to Everton or elsewhere, is likely at the end of the season.
Mark Ogden is a senior football writer for ESPN FC. Follow him @MarkOgden_
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Source: espn.co.uk