City consider Spanish star to replace stricken Mendy

Espanyol's Aaron Martin is thought to be of interest ot Pep Guardiola's side as they look to fill the void created by Mendy's prolonged absence.

The loss of the former Monaco man, who is the most expensive defender in history, came as a bitter blow to Guardiola, who, having not signed a back-up left-back during the summer, will now be forced to rely on Fabian Delph, Danilo or Fabinho to fill in until the Spaniard can strengthen his squad once again.

Napoli's Faouzi Ghoulam is one name that is thought to be high up in City's thinking, but Liverpool are currently favourites to sign the Algerian international.

Reports in England suggest that Mendy's replacement is more likely to come from the Spanish League, with 'talkSPORT' reporting that Aaron Martin is the club's No1 target.

The 'Sky Blues' signed Pablo Zabaleta from Espanyol back in the day and are thought to see Martin as a long-term option at left-back.

Martin is just 20 years old but has already made 38 appearances for the Catalan side and has started all seven of his side's La Liga games so far this campaign.

The Spain U21 international is under contract with Espanyol untill 2022, not that money would be an issue for City.

City have excellent contact in Catalonia thanks to Guardiola's history with Barca and the acquisition of Girona via the City Football Group and these links may have contibuted to identifying Martin as a target.