Man City considering parking Cucurella move next summer as Brighton demand £50m

Manchester City have threatened to walk away from negotiations with Brighton for left back Marc Cucurella until next summer.

The reigning Premier League champions previously made a £30million bid for the Spaniard and the Seagulls rejected it as they value him at £50m.

City deem that valuation to be too high even though Cucurella is keen on the move. Meanwhile, Brighton have offered the player an improved contract to stay at the club.

City's alternative targets at left back include Benfica's Alex Grimaldo and Stuttgart's Borna Sosa.

Pep Guardiola's side may also wait until next summer to go back in for Cucurella.

The Spain international made 35 appearances for Brighton last season, following his £15m move from Getafe. He signed a five year contract, and the Seagulls have ambitions to hold onto their man for a little while longer - unless City stump up.

City and Brighton entered negotiations after the former sold Oleksandr Zinchenko to Arsenal for £32m, with the Ukrainian leaving the Etihad after six years with the Citizens.

The Spanish fullback, who won an Olympic silver medal with his nation last year, is adept with the ball at his feet, and able to provide assistance in the final third when Brighton offer him the chance to get forward. He scored his first goal for the Seagulls in May's 4-0 win over Manchester United.

City's only recognised left-back is Joao Cancelo, so they will be keen for another - which ultimately leaves Brighton able to drive up the price, as they have no need to sell.