Pep Guardiola targets Barcelona goalkeeper to be Man City No 1 in place of Joe Hart — reports

Marc-Andre ter Stegen played for Barcelona against Liverpool on Saturday evening in a 4-0 defeat. Michael Regan / Getty Images

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has targeted a move for Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre Ter Stegen after deciding Joe Hart is not good enough to be his No 1, according to media reports.

Hart, 29, has been City’s undisputed first choice goalkeeper since 2008, also earning the same status for the England national team.

However, the Daily Express has reported that Guardiola is unconvinced by Hart, and in particular his distribution — a part of his game that was given extra attention during City's pre-season tour of China.

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Hart’s lacklustre displays for England during Euro 2016, that saw him produced two costly errors, also reportedly left Guardiola unconvinced in his ability.

The Express report claims Guardiola views Germany international Ter Stegen as the man to be trusted between the City sticks.

Ter Stegen, 24, is regarded as one of the finest goalkeepers in Europe, although has so far found his playing time at Barcelona limited due to manager Luis Enrique’s decision to play him almost exclusively in cup and Uefa Champions League fixtures. Last season, he started just six Primera Liga games, and is thought to be eager to secure regular action this season.

Barcelona are reportedly prepared to allow Ter Stegen to leave, although City will need to match his £67 million (Dh321.7m) release clause to complete the deal.

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