PA Images/Alamy Images

All the while the transfer window remains open there is business to be done, and the teams from the Saudi Pro League will keep insisting on certain targets from Europe’s biggest clubs, including Man City.

The Cityzens have already seen Riyad Mahrez move to the Middle East, following a number of his contemporaries there in a summer that has been dominated by the Pro League doing everything possible to be seen as a world footballing force.

Perhaps a little worryingly, the window in Saudi Arabia remains open for a further three weeks after Europe’s windows close, meaning that there’s a distinct possibility that players could be poached well after the European deadline and clubs won’t be able to replace them until January.

It’s no use believing it won’t happen either, given the amount of money that’s being bandied around at present.

Players simply don’t want to miss out on this ‘gold rush’ effect and get left behind whilst their team-mates take the decision to earn ludicrous sums of money that will ensure they and their families are set for life.

The latest City star to be linked to a move is centre-back, Aymeric Laporte.

Reliable journalist, Fabrizio Romano, has tweeted that Al Nassr, home to Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mane and others, have improved their salary offer to the player.

He also mentions that City are prepared to give the green light to any deal, so the matter is very much now in the player’s own hands.

More must-reads:

TODAY'S BEST
Celtics dominate Pacers in Game 2, take 2-0 ECF lead
Pacers star suffers injury in ugly Game 2 loss
Watch: Jaylen Brown's big second quarter lifts Celtics to halftime lead
Historic NCAA settlement reached allowing schools to pay players
Broncos HC Sean Payton raves about one QB's progress at OTAs
North Carolina basketball snags instant-impact player via transfer portal
Rams GM shares details about Stetson Bennett’s absence
Perpetual Bulls trade candidate once more hitting the rumor mill
MLB announces host venues for 2026 World Baseball Classic
Knicks marquee trade acquisition could bolt in free agency
Pistons make decision on new president of basketball operations
ESPN and longtime NFL reporter are parting ways
If Lions HC Dan Campbell's assessment of WR is accurate it could mean trouble for opponents
NBA closes investigation into embattled Thunder guard
NFL reporter predicts Cowboys' plan for QB Dak Prescott
Cavaliers make decision on head coach J.B. Bickerstaff’s future
Two young stars get hefty bonuses for making All-NBA teams
Mavericks star duo joins exclusive club with Game 1 win
Mavericks ride 'Luka Magic' on both ends late to win Game 1
Panthers shut out Rangers 3-0 in Eastern Conference Final opener