Fernandinho confirms on Twitter that he wants to join Manchester City

The Brazilian midfielder has been a long-time target for City

Fernandinho of Shakhtar Donetsk (GETTY IMAGES)

Brazilian midfielder Fernandinho has confirmed he wants to join Manchester City.

The 28-year-old has been a long-standing target for City, who are looking to bolster their squad ahead of the reported impending arrival of Manuel Pellegrini as coach.

Fernandinho has already claimed that current club Shakhtar Donetsk are pricing him out of the market as they hold out for a fee close to the £42.5million escape clause inserted into his most recent contract, which is not due to expire until 2016.

Having helped Shakhtar to another title, it is clear the player wants to leave in order to boost his chances of making Brazil's World Cup squad.

He has been left out of Confederations Cup plans by current boss Luis Felipe Scolari and, in responding to a question on Twitter from a City fan this morning, has confirmed he wants to join the deposed Barclays Premier League champions.

When asked: "Do you want to join City? Please answer! Really hope you join", Fernandinho replied: "yes my friend!!!"

City are currently unavailable for comment as they are flying to the United States for their two post-season encounters with Chelsea.

PA