Skrtel in City's sights

Manchester City are reportedly poised to swoop for Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel if he fails to negotiate a new deal extension.

The Slovakia international central defender has been linked with a possible summer move to the Etihad Stadium amid reports suggesting City boss Roberto Mancini is a big fan of the player. Big-spending Russian club Anzhi Makhachkala have also been credited with an interest in the 27-year-old, while Skrtel's agent is adamant that the player would be happy to stay put at Anfield as long as he gets assurances from new boss Brendan Rodgers that the club will be aiming high next season. Karol Cstonto said: "Some changes have been made at the club and he wants to know what the aims and ambitions are. And of course, we will discuss the issue of Martin's new contract. "Liverpool is a big club and just because they haven't made the Champions League this year doesn't mean they would not do it next year. "There are expectations on both sides, though." If Skrtel is not convinced that Rodgers can help the Merseysiders progress from Kenny Dalglish's tenure then a move to champions City could well appeal.