Manchester City intend to move forward with adding Aymeric Laporte as one of Pep Guardiola's first signings despite being ruled out until August with a broken leg and dislocated ankle.

Guardiola has identified Laporte among the players he wants to bring in this summer.

Guardiola sees Laporte as an upgrade on Martin Demichelis at center half.

City have been monitoring John Stones’ potential availability at Everton, acutely aware that both Chelsea and Manchester United would like to tempt him away from Goodison, but Guardiola’s belief is that Laporte can play at the highest level for the next 10 years.

Laporte has a £39.6 million release clause with Athletic Bilbao.