Manchester City are very mindful about meeting the Premier League’s homegrown quota and as such, are lining up a move to sign West Ham youngster Reece Oxford in the summer, according to the Daily Mail.
Oxford would provide competition for current centre-backs Nicolas Otamendi and Eliaquim Mangala but, more than likely, would feature for City’s U21 and be available to be called upon if and when required.
The 17-year-old has made 11 appearances for the Hammers this season and burst onto the scene with a spectacular display against Arsenal on the opening day of the season.
Oxford also has versatility on his side and can play in a central defensive midfielder role, which means he could add the same depth to the position as Martin Demichelis does now, only with a much higher ceiling.
Guardiola is confident of being able to lure Oxford to the Etihad with Champions League football on offer and an ever-growing academy of youth players.
The Daily Mail also reports that City will turn their attentions to Everton and England defender John Stones if a move for Oxford did not materialise.
West Ham will not want to sell one of their star assets and will battle to keep him at the club.
