Manchester City Identify Bayern Munich Star As Top Raheem Sterling Replacement

Manchester City have reportedly identified their top summer transfer target, should Raheem Sterling leave the club.

The England international winger has been at the centre of intense speculation linking him with a move to fellow Premier League giants Chelsea this transfer window.

Following concerns over game time ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup in Qatar, Raheem Sterling showed his willingness to move clubs to Manchester City officials - who have not stood in the player's way.

Sterling - who has just one year remaining on his existing Etihad deal - is likely to command a transfer fee in excess of £45 million, despite his current contract situation.

Stamford Bridge officials have been very keen on securing the services of the player for a number of weeks now, and all signs would point towards the forward leaving Manchester City after seven years at the club.

For City, there have been plenty of questions as to whether they would be re-entering the transfer market to sign a replacement, should Raheem Sterling secure a move away from the club.

Now, it seems as though Etihad Stadium officials have identified their number one target to replace the Englishman.

According to The Sun, Bayern Munich's Serge Gnabry will leap to the very top of Manchester City's transfer wishlist this summer, should Raheem Sterling finalise a move to London this summer.

The 26 year-old Germany international winger is currently at the centre of a contract stand-off of his own at the Allianz Arena.

Should an agreement fail to be reached between the two parties, there is a suggestion and feeling in some quarters that the Bundesliga giants would be willing to cash in for around £40 million.

For now however, Manchester City's priorities will lie elsewhere, until the situation surrounding Raheem Sterling is resolved.

Etihad sporting director Txiki Begiristain and other high-ranking club officials are currently focusing their attention on signing a new left-back for Pep Guardiola's side.

Brighton & Hove Albion's Marc Cucurella is the number on target in the position, but the south coast side are standing firm on their valuation of the player - which is in the region of £50 million.

Personal terms are not expected to be an issue, with the former Barcelona academy star open to the idea of moving on in his career to the home of the Premier League champions.

Developments on the situation are expected in the next days.

However, whether that is in favour of Manchester City or Brighton remains to be seen.