While most positions tend to be upgradable for any team on the planet, this theory does not apply to Manchester City’s midfield.
As number 10's go, it’s hard to discover one that usurps the all-conquering Kevin De Bruyne, whose splendid displays led to him taking home the 2021/22 Premier League Player of the Year award.
In addition, Bernardo Silva’s unique blend of technical brilliance and dogged defensive capabilities truly make him one of the best in European football.
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As for Rodri, he has emerged as arguably one of, if not the best defensive midfielder in the world over the last 12 months.
With Ilkay Gundogan’s final-day heroics against Aston Villa doing all the talking for his sensational skillset, the major claim about the Sky Blues’ midfield could potentially ring true.
However, the Premier League champions have gone out and improved their midfield department by signing an excellent replacement for Fernandinho in Leeds United’s Kalvin Phillips.
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With their former club captain returning to boyhood club Athletico Paranaense in the summer, it was crucial for Pep Guardiola’s side to sign a backup number six to Rodri.
For the reported £42 million shelled out to secure the England international’s services, it seems like City have emerged victorious in the transfer window once again.
However, new details have surfaced that reveal that the English heavyweights plan to further elevate their strength-in-depth in midfield by targeting one of Ligue 1’s most accomplished stars.
As per a report by ESPN Brasil, as translated and relayed by Sport Witness, Manchester City are one of the many interested clubs in signing Lyon’s Lucas Paqueta.
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The Premier League champions face stiff competition to sign the 24-year-old from the likes of Arsenal, Paris-Saint Germain and Tottenham.
It has been mentioned that every club, including the Sky Blues, have put forth a ‘strong approach’ to secure the services of the Brazilian ace.
However, it has been claimed that the talks did not advance to lure the magisterial midfielder to depart the French giants.
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Additionally, Paqueta is said to have ‘adapted’ to life in France and feels comfortable at Lyon, which is why he is understood not to be eyeing an exit currently.
Ultimately, it seems unlikely that City themselves will aim to bolster their midfield, let alone direct their attention towards signing Paqueta.
Instead, acquiring the services of Marc Cucurella from Brighton and potentially having a defensive replacement ready in case Nathan Aké joins Chelsea seem like their priorities in the summer market.
There is also heavy rumours concerning Raheem Sterling's potential switch to Stamford Bridge.
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So, the Blues may look to bolster their attacking line to avoid them becoming light on options in the upcoming campaign.
Topics: Manchester City, Lyon, Premier League, Manchester City Transfer News & Rumours
Srinivas Sadhanand