Wolves were quick to reject Manchester City’s opening bid of £47million for Matheus Nunes but they are preparing for the Premier League champions to step up their interest. Pep Guardiola is a huge admirer of the Portuguese midfielder and has previously described him as “one of the best players in the world”. Guardiola wants to sign a midfielder after lose Kevin De Bruyne for about four months after hamstring surgery. Wolves would only consider a substantial offer.

City had been pushing for a deal for Lucas Paqueta but had to look elsewhere after the West Ham midfielder was the subject of a Football Association investigation into alleged betting violations.

Nunes, become Wolves record signing for £42million from Sporting last summer, will miss Saturday’s trip to Everton after being sent off in 4-1 loss to Brighton last Saturday.

City, who are also tracking Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze, are keen on a quick deal and personal terms have been agreed with Nunes. The Portuguese, who turns 25 on Sunday, seems to want to move.

City are set to announce the arrival of the Belgian winger Jeremiah Doku of Rennes. Doku replaces Riyad Mahrez, who joined Al-Ahli last month.

Aymeric Laporte has completed its move from Manchester City at Saudi club Al-Nassr, the Premier League champions have announced.

The Saudi Pro League outfit have reportedly paid £23.5m for the 29-year-old Spain defender, who has spent the past five and a half years at the Etihad Stadium.