Manchester City set for battle to sign “exciting” Brazil international with 3 goals this season

Brazil's Wesley Franca in action with Senegal's Iliman Ndiaye. (REUTERS/Isabel Infantes)

Manchester City’s recent form has stalled, with back-to-back draws threatening to derail their title chase.

A late Enzo Fernández strike earned Chelsea a point at the Etihad, followed by a frustrating stalemate against Brighton on Wednesday.

With the season now past its halfway point, Pep Guardiola is eager to add reinforcements to keep City in contention for the Premier League crown.

Manchester City are reportedly among three Premier League clubs chasing Roma right-back Wesley Franca, alongside Tottenham and Newcastle, according to TeamTalk.

The 22-year-old Brazilian, who joined Roma from Flamengo last summer, has impressed at the Stadio Olimpico and earned five caps for his country over the past year.

Known for his versatility, Wesley has been deployed across right-back, right midfield, and even left midfield, contributing three goals this season, including decisive strikes against Bologna and Como.

Scout Moby describes him as an “exciting” talent, a profile that clearly appeals to Guardiola, who values players capable of influencing games in multiple positions.

While Roma are not in a hurry to sell, City’s interest signals they could make a move in January to secure the Brazilian’s signature and bolster their squad as the title race heats up.

Barnaby Lane is a highly experienced sports writer who has written for The Times, FourFourTwo Magazine, Sports Illustrated, TalkSPORT, and Business Insider.

Over the years, he's had the pleasure of interviewing some of the biggest names in world sport, including Usain Bolt, Rafael Nadal, Christian Pulisic, and more.