Manchester City are attempting to pull off a late deal to take both Eliaquim Mangala and Fernando from Porto, who are demanding €46m (£37.8m) for the pair, which is above the English club's valuation.
City had planned to move for the 22-year-old French central defender Mangala, and Fernando, a 26-year-old Brazilian defensive midfielder, in the summer. But Porto's changing financial situation has meant the Portuguese club are keen to bring in funds as soon as possible.
While negotiations were taking place on Thursday evening, both sides accept that a deal for one or both players has only an outside chance of occurring. If Mangala was bought by City then Joleon Lescott may be allowed to leave.
