Manchester City are reportedly set to replace departing sporting director Txiki Begiristain with former Newcastle United star Hugo Viana.
The reigning Premier League champions are believed to have agreed a deal with Portuguese giants Sporting CP over a deal that will see Viana make a move to the Etihad Stadium - and The Guardian have reported the former Portugal international will work alongside Begiristain during ‘a lengthy handover period’.
Viana has overseen a fine turnaround in fortunes with Sporting and has been credited with the impressive appointment of former Braga manager Ruben Amorim, who has been linked with several big name clubs in recent months. Viana has also played a part in the big money sales of Manuel Ugarte, Matheus Nunes and Nuno Mendes in recent seasons and is now set to return to the Premier League for the first time since his disappointing spell with Newcastle came to an end in 2006.
But how could a City side look if Viana was handed an integral role at the Etihad Stadium?
9. LW: Jack Grealish
The former Aston Villa star will hope to solidify his place on the left-hand side of City's front three. | Getty Images
10. RW: Jeremy Doku
Jeremy Doku has said he can see improvements in his performance after a slow start to the 2024/25 season - and he will hope to continue that next season. | Getty Images
11. ST: Erling Haaland
There may well be interest in the Norway striker but City are believed to be keen to hand him a new deal amid reports suggesting Real Madrid are keen. | Getty Images