Moroccan defender Michael Chretien has snubbed Manchester City for Seville-based Real Betis, according to his agent because of the weather.

City were earlier said to be leading the race to sign the Nancy right back, who is set to move to the La Liga outfit this week barring a last-minute glitch.

Manuel Pericet told Diario Deportivo: “If there’s no surprise, everything will be done today (Monday) or tomorrow (Tuesday). He prefers Seville’s weather to Manchester’s.”

City are however, in talks to clinch the signing of defender Tal Ben Haim from Chelsea with the Israeli international also capable of playing at right-back.

"We have made a bid," said manager Mark Hughes.

"Discussions are taking place and hopefully that will be among a number of deals that we conclude before the transfer deadline."