Manchester City are preparing a summer bid for Real Madrid midfielder Isco.

The Manchester Evening News says City have been encouraged to revive their pursuit of Isco as he battles to convince Real coach Carlo Ancelotti he deserves automatic selection.

Isco was touted as the first marquee signing of the Manuel Pellegrini era nearly two years ago but the former Malaga playmaker ended up moving to Real Madrid, rather than following his old Malaga manager to Manchester City.

The Spain international, like compatriot Asier Illarramendi, always seems to be vulnerable to the Real merry-go-round that will doubtless continue this summer.