Manchester City have reportedly identified Sassuolo's Manuel Locatelli as a potential target in next summer's transfer window.

Locatelli, 23, has developed into one of the best central midfielders in Serie A and has become a key figure for Roberto De Zerbi's team this season.

According to the Daily Mail, Pep Guardiola's side are keeping tabs on the Italy international, who is expected to cost in the region of £30m.

Locatelli initially burst onto the scene at Italian giants AC Milan, where he made his top-flight debut for the club aged just 18 in 2016.

However, after falling down the pecking order over time at San Siro, the midfielder moved to Sassuolo in 2018 and has since flourished with the Black and Greens.

Locatelli, who has a contract with Sassuolo that runs until 2023, has also been linked with current Serie A holders Juventus and is said to be keen on a move to a club competing in the Champions League.