Enzo Maresca wants Manchester City to test Real Betis's resolve over Natan when the winter window opens. The City boss has reportedly requested a January move for the Brazilian centre-back.
Whether the club shares his enthusiasm is another matter.
Who is Natan?
Natan, 25, has been a regular for Betis this season, making nine appearances. He played 45 times last season and helped the Spanish club reach the Conference League final, where he faced Maresca's Chelsea.
That game appears to have left an impression. Sport Witness, citing claims from Spain, reports that Maresca has tracked the defender since his Chelsea days and has now asked City to pursue a deal.
The player's route to Seville was a loan from Napoli in 2024, made permanent the following year for €9million. Betis now want around €40m (£35m) to part with him.
Competition for places
City already have Rúben Dias, Marc Guéhi, Abdukodir Khusanov and Vitor Reis as centre-back options, while Joško Gvardiol can also fill in centrally. Adding a fifth senior name to that queue would raise questions about who makes way.
There is also the small matter of Natan's own preference. The report claims he would rather join Barcelona, who explored a move in the summer without making an offer.
Where things stand
Betis rejected a €27m approach from Leeds United in the summer. Brentford and Fulham have previously been credited with interest.
City have not made an offer or opened negotiations. The interest remains unconfirmed and no deal is close.
Transfer planning is said to be continuing as normal despite the uncertainty around the club's Premier League appeal.