Manchester City closing in on former Manchester United defender Jonny Evans

London, Aug 28: Former Manchester United star Jonny Evans is close to his £30million Manchester City move with West Brom wanting Eliaquim Mangala.

However, the Baggies boss Tony Pulis is refusing to let Evans, 29, leave until he has a replacement and has asked for France centre-back Mangala on loan from Manchester City as part of a deal.

Evans is an experienced Premier League defender who is also a coveted international player for Northern Ireland and Pep Guardiola wants the Northern Irishman to add experience to his backline.

Guardiola wants Evans to add competition to his defence line of skipper Vincent Kompany, John Stones and Nicolas Otamendi.

Manchester City had a £18m bid rejected but have not given up hope of getting Belfast-born Evans and they are unlikely to let Mangala move on loan to West Brom, who has been an unused sub for them so far this season.

Meanwhile, Jonny Evans has broken his silence over his future to assure the fans that he is committed to the club.

Evans wrote in West Brom's match-day programme for their Sunday clash with Stoke, insisting he has simply been focused on regaining his fitness.

“Obviously, there’s been a bit of speculation around my future here but from my point of view, it’s very simple," he said.

“All I’ve been concentrating on is getting fit and getting back out on the pitch and doing my bit for the team.

“Every window there’s always speculation over transfers but as players, these things are often out of your control and it’s best not to think about it too much.

“Until anybody tells me differently, I’m only committed to Albion and I’m only thinking about getting in this team. It’s a great club and I’m proud to be captain.”