Heading into this summer’s transfer window the possibility that Manchester City could see a key player or two loomed large. After a sustained era of success at the Etihad, there was always a chance that City’s most important players could seek a new challenge. To date that possibility hasn’t become a reality. But a new report from David Ornstein for the Athletic indicates that Atletico Madrid and Manchester City are close to agreeing on a deal for the sale of Julian Alvarez. If the move materializes the departure of a key player may be imminent for the world champions.
David Ornstein has reported for the Athletic that Manchester City and Atletico Madrid are close to striking a deal for Julian Alvarez. Ornstein further reports that the two clubs are now in talks over the final price and payment structure of the potential deal. Furthermore, Ornstein reports that the transfer fee for Alvarez is expected to be five times larger than the £14 million City paid River Plate to sign the World Cup winner.
It now appears that Manchester City will lose an important player this summer.
As mentioned previously there was always a possibility that City could lose an important player this summer. Based on Ornstein’s new report that player could be Julian Alvarez. The Argentinian international plays a vital role for Pep Guardiola. He can play up front or in a variety of roles for the world champions. During his two-year spell at the club, he has shown just how important he is to Manchester City.
There is an argument to be made that the contributions of Julian Alvarez and Phil Foden last season were crucial to City’s fourth consecutive Premier League title. When Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne were out injured the pair were key contributors. Whenever City have needed him Alvarez has stood up when required. It is a credit to him that no job has been beyond the Argentinian striker. But now it appears that the Alvarez could have potentially played his last game for Manchester City.
David Ornstein’s new report suggests that Julian Alvarez is edging closer to leaving Manchester City. The possibility that City could lose a key player was always there this summer. Now it appears to closer than any other time during the summer transfer window. It will be a real blow if he does leave City for Atletico Madrid. How the champions go about replacing such an important player could become the story going forward.
Who is City gonna sign as replacement?
A striker who can play as cam or a midfielder who can play CF? Zirkzee would’ve been the best option. Might even look at Evan Ferguson considering City have been monitoring him and his value has gone down over last 2 seasons.