Just one day before the blues embark on hopefully yet another successful trip to Wembley, but for now, let's sink our teeth into some fairly unusual transfer gossip.
According to the Manchester Evening News, Manchester City scouts have been impressed by the recent performances of West Bromwich Albion midfielder Claudio Yacob. The 26-year-old Argentinian, known for his combativeness, has formed an intimidating midfield partnership with Youssouf Mulumbu since moving to the Baggies in 2012 and Manuel Pellegrini is believed to be keen on introducing his fight into the team. The Argentinian has been capped three times for his country.
Another midfield monstrosity that seems to have caught the eye of Pellegrini is Newcastle United's Cheick Tiote. The Ivorian was denied a wonder-goal in a meeting between the two sides earlier this season and the Chilean has reportedly named him as a target to bolster his midfield next season. The Manchester Evening News believe Tiote would command a fee of around £18m.
(Tiote has established himself as one of the Premier League's most feared midfielders since moving to Newcastle in 2010)
Football Direct News report that Tottenham Hotspur will attempt to sign out-of-favour full back Micah Richards from the blues in summer. Richards has featured in just two Premier League games this season and has already attracted interest from Arsenal.
Reports in Italy suggest Manchester City legend Roberto Mancini could be set for a dramatic move back to England next season. The Galatasaray boss is reportedly desperate to return to the UK and could replace Tim Sherwood as manager of Tottenham Hotspur.
(Roberto Mancini spent four years at Manchester City, winning three trophies)
And finally, Joe Hart has insisted that he will be 'man enough' to take it if Costel Pantillimon is preferred for Sunday's Wembley showpiece against Sunderland.
