After weeks of speculation linking the player with a January move to Liverpool, Manchester City appear to be raising interest in Gaston Ramirez.

The news could mean that City are preparing to offload current fringe player Adam Johnson as rumours mount around his departure.

Johnson has been linked with moves to Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal as he continues to play a bit-part role at the Etihad Stadium, seemingly limited to mainly substitute appearances despite Roberto Mancini’s reported admiration for the player.

City appear to be in the market for a player capable of playing on the wing after being linked with moves for Eden Hazard and Angel di Maria of Lille and Real Madrid, respectively.

Ramirez has made 13 starts for Bologna this season scoring four goals as well as making four assists and his club have reportedly placed a £15m price-tag on their star.

The 21 year-old is also a Uruguayan international and has made eight appearances for the Copa America champions since making his debut in 2010.

Although the youngster isn’t the usual big-name signing that Roberto Mancini has become accustomed to signing, Ramirez has shown this season that he is undoubtedly a standout talent at Bologna.

The Italian outfit may not be keen on seeing their talisman leave the club, however should his asking price – which is well within City’s spending range – be met, they may not have a choice in the matter.