Officials at MANCHESTER CITY are keeping tabs on the relatively obscure Sierra Leonean defender, Juma Bah.

Scouts from the Etihad are assessing the teenage centre-back, who currently represents the Ronaldo-owned Spanish club Real Valladolid, with a possible transfer on the horizon for the January window.

Juma Bah of Real Valladolid is a target for Man City

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Juma Bah of Real Valladolid is a target for Man CityCredit: Getty

At only 18 years of age, Bah has made a notable impression in his first LaLiga season after joining on loan from AIK Freetong in Sierra Leone.

There are also reports linking Newcastle with the 6ft 5in rising talent, while Everton and Crystal Palace are also monitoring his progress closely.

The impressive defender has appeared seven times for Valladolid this season.

His career started with AIK Freetong in 2021, followed by an outstanding loan at Freetonians SLIFA, a club in the Sierra Leone National Premier League.

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Bah made the switch to Valladolid this summer, initially set to play for their B team.

However, he has quickly adapted to the first team, gaining invaluable experience at such a young age.

He made history by debuting against Real Sociedad in a 0-0 draw, thus becoming the first player born in Sierra Leone to play in Spain’s top division.

Man City is expected to have an active January transfer window.

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Manager Pep Guardiola will be keen to address the team’s recent difficulties, which included a run of six games without a victory across all competitions.

During this challenging period, City conceded an alarming 17 goals.

The reigning champions are also contemplating enhancing their midfield depth.

As reported by SunSport, the Premier League champions are eyeing a £50.3 million bid for Martin Zubimendi.

While Zubimendi’s release clause is reasonable, manager Guardiola was initially reluctant to make significant moves in the January window.

Nevertheless, with ongoing injury challenges and poor performance, a change of heart may be needed, as Guardiola is hesitant to overburden his younger players.