Big money: Brazil star Neymar could arrive at City in the summer for £145m

Manchester City can make Brazil star Neymar the first marquee signing of the Pep Guardiola revolution.

Neymar, 24, is one of the most sought-after players in world football and City would need to meet the £145million buy-out clause in his Barcelona contract to land him.

But former Barca and Brazil star Ronaldinho believes City are ready to make a concerted bid to land Neymar, who recently revealed he would love to play under Guardiola, who takes over at City on July 1.

Ronaldinho said: “Neymar has already stated his desire to play for Pep.

“That was a big statement with most people knowing that Pep would be joining Manchester City in the summer.

“We know they can pay wages that no other club in Europe has the power to do.”

Neymar’s father claimed in a court case last week that a top English club had made approaches to sign his son in the January window. It is believed that club was Manchester United.

Ronaldinho believes City will flex their considerable financial muscle to land Neymar in a deal that would shatter the British transfer record and leave United frustrated onlookers.

He added: “There has been a lot of talk about Neymar’s future recently, but I believe rumours of a move to Real Madrid are false.

“I will advise him to stay at Barcelona for at least a few more years, but if he wants City and they want him, we know they have the power to make it happen.”