Manchester City last night agreed to allow Eliaquim Mangala to join Napoli on loan, which may help their Premier League rivals Chelsea in their attempts to sign Kalidou Koulibaly from the Italian club. Mangala has started 47 league games since City paid £42 million for him two years ago, but has not yet appeared in the first-team squad this season, with John Stones, the £47.5 million arrival from Everton, becoming first choice at the Etihad Stadium. Any deal for Mangala could provide the cover that Napoli need if they are to let Koulibaly depart for Stamford Bridge.

• Southampton have lodged a £13 million offer for Sofiane Boufal in the hope of beating various other English clubs to the signature of the Lille winger. The