Yuki Abe to sign for Man City - ESPN

ESPN have shocked the footballing world by announcing today that Manchester City's billionaire owners are not targeting the likes of Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo this summer but instead looking toward Japanese duo Yuki Abe and Keisuke Honda.

Favourite: Yuki Abe is loved in Leicester

Abe signed for Leicester City under Paulo Sousa from Urawa Red Diamonds and after a shaky start to life in England has established himself as a firm favourite amongst the Foxes' faithful. ESPN believe that Roberto Mancini's City are lining-up the Japanese pair to work alongside each other as they have done previously for the Japan national team.

Abe's dedication to the East Midlands club was initially questioned in some quarters, but his commitment to learning English and working with his teammates to establish a rapport has earned him respect and, often, adoration from fans.

The possible move from the Citizens has raised the eyebrows of some, who believe the move for Abe in particular could act as a publicity stunt to raise the profile of the club in the Far East, with Abe immediately loaned-back to the Foxes after signing for City. 

Leicester City manager Sven Goran Eriksson is yet to comment and neither player has made a statement.