Man City confident of Pepe signing

Manchester City have been boosted in their pursuit for Real Madrid defender Pepe, The Star reports.

The Citizens boss Manuel Pellegrini is believed to be keen in boosting the club's defensive setup at the end of the season, in spite of signing Eliaquim Mangala from Porto for around £32m last summer.

According to The Star, the Citizens could move for the Portuguese international, who is keen on a fresh challenge away from the Bernabeu next season.

The 31-year-old was expected to leave Los Blancos over the summer, but an injury to French youngster Raphael Varane halted his transfer.