PSG have bid rejected for Joao Mario

Paris Saint-Germain have had an official proposal rejected for Sporting CP midfielder Joao Mario, according to France Football.

The Saints are determined to reinforce their ranks ahead of the 2016/2017 campaign and the Portugal international has emerged as one of their top targets.

France Football has learned that Paris Saint-Germain submitted a €35 million offer for the highly rated footballer, but said proposal was swiftly rejected by the Lions chairman Bruno de Carvalho.

Sporting CP bosses have a figure closer to the player’s €60 million release clause in mind, meaning that the Saints will have to delve deep into their pockets if they want to recruit the 23-year-old midfielder.

Joao Mario has been one of club’s star performers this season and he appears to have nailed down a regular starting berth in the national team as well, with Portugal priced at 8/13 to win their opening Euro 2016 fixture against Iceland.