Manchester City: Pep Guardiola’s defensive overhaul continues with an eye on Kalidou Koulibaly
Pep Guardiola is planning a ruthless transfer window at Manchester City.
Man City have begun their summer market on an aggressive note after conceding their Premier League title to Liverpool with a prominent 18-point margin. Thus far, the club executives have concluded two transfer deals, Ferran Torres and Nathan Ake, with no signs of slowing down in the coming weeks.
With a target of recruiting five players in the ongoing window, the Sky Blues are making a statement of intent as they try to regain the Premier League summit in the upcoming campaign. The arrival of two players has, already, injected some quality to the squad which struggled with injuries and lack of defensive cover last season.
As far as signings are concerned, Pep Guardiola might have to tinker with his list of coveted targets with a few departures expected during the process of shaping the roster ahead of the 2020/21 term.
Coming as a breakthrough story, Eric Garcia, Manchester City’s academy graduate, has rejected a contract extension with the club. Signed from the famous La Masia, the Catalan defender is eager for a move back to Barcelona as they search for a long-term replacement for an ageing Gerard Pique.
Pep confirmed that young prospect Eric Garcia wants out at City 👀 pic.twitter.com/hfjLYTu51I
— B/R Football (@brfootball) August 6, 2020
Despite Garcia’s decision to move on being a minor setback, Pep Guardiola has already eyed a player from Barcelona – Sergi Roberto – who could be used as a potential makeweight to facilitate the defender’s move to Camp Nou.
Guardiola, however, is still searching for a groundbreaking defensive acquisition, acting as a major sign on intent from the Sky Blues who seek their third league title in four seasons. Nathan Ake is understood to be a squad member who provides optimum cover with a versatile presence.
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In that category, Napoli’s Kalidou Koulibaly has been identified as a candidate who would fill the role of a colossal presence in the back-four since the departure of club captain Vincent Kompany. But the transfer fee could prove to be a sticking point in the negotiations.
Notwithstanding a fractured relationship with Napoli since the transfer saga involving Jorginho, Manchester City are prepared to bite the bullet and initiate dialogues with the Serie A side – who have marked Koulibaly above £75million. City’s official bid is expected to arrive at Napoli’s table next week.
Must Read. Pep Guardiola interested in Barcelona superstar. light
"It’s claimed City have officially contacted Napoli to find out the conditions to sign the centre-back.Txiki Begiristain has informed Koulibaly’s agent Fali Ramadani that City are ‘willing to offer a substantial salary’ to secure his client’s signature. (Foot Mercato via Sport Witness)"
Given the pressing need for a defensive stalwart, Pep Guardiola has repeatedly requested his paymasters to sanction the deal for the 29-year-old who has interested cross-town rivals Manchester United, too.