Transfer news: Manchester City end pursuit of Porto duo Eliaquim Mangala and Fernando

The demands of Porto were considered too high

Friday 31 January 2014 18:30 GMT

Manchester City continue pursuit of Porto pair Eliaquim Mangala and Fernando (Miguel Riopa/AFP/Getty Images)

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It is understood Manchester City have given up on signing Porto duo Eliaquim Mangala and Fernando - at least until the summer.

The Independent reported last night that the Premier League table-toppers were readying a £38m move for defender Mangala, and a £12.4m deal for Brazilian midfielder Fernando.

However, Porto's demands were considered too high for players who will not necessarily make an immediate impact on the first team.

It's expected City will return in the summer.

City always viewed the prospect of signing the 22-year-old Mangala as slim, with so many clubs seeking to secure his services and Manchester United joining Paris Saint-Germain among those who are interested. But both the City manager Manuel Pellegrini and director of football Txiki Begiristain admire Mangala and see him as the partner they need for Vincent Kompany in central defence.

Transfer deadline day January 2014 - LIVE

Porto's willingness to sell was always going to be a problem as the club are contenders for their domestic title.

Earlier today, Pellegrini did not rule out deals but did not wish to discuss them.

He said: "For the moment - sorry - no news, but I promise tomorrow you will know all about it."

Who have City been linked with this month?

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