Russian champions Spartak Moscow are preparing for the departure of Serdar Tasci, after claims Stoke City want to sign the former German international.
Mark Hughes could be looking to bring in a central defender this summer, and Tasci in an option for the Stoke City boss.
Spartak coach Massimo Carrera has admitted Tasci could be on his way out in this window, and according to The Telegraph the Russian club are preparing for the German defender’s departure by targeting Manchester City’s Eliaquim Mangala.
The Frenchman looks surplus to requirements with the Premier League side, and may need to move before the window closes.
However, according to Sport Express the Manchester City player has refused the move, but details of the offer were not specified. The Russian sports outlet adds Mangala now has other offers from Italy, France, Turkey and Spain. The Manchester City defender spent last season on loan with Valencia, and a return to Spain is a possibility.
Mangala’s decision can subsequently have an impact in Stoke City’s pursuit of Tasci. Spartak will only sell the defender to Stoke City if they can bring in replacements, and it seems the Moscow club will have to keep looking.
