Demichelis nears Etihad exit

Manchester City defender Martin Demichelis could be leaving Etihad in the winter, according to a report in Manchester Evening News.

The 34 year old is currently behind Vincent Kompany, Nicolas Otamendi and Eliaquim Mangala in the pecking order, meaning he is unlikely to get much playing time this season.

And with his contract also due to expire at the end of the current campaign, it is believed that Demichelis will request to leave in January.

The veteran defender reportedly wants to return to River Plate before calling time on his professional career.

However, Manchester City officials may not allow Demichelis to leave considering that they still hold him in high regard.

It was at River Plate that the centre-back began his career, making 51 league appearances for the Millionaires before joining Bayern Munich.

And after spending last 12 years abroad, Demichelis probably believes the time has come to return home.