With Joao Cancelo’s surprise emergence as arguably the standout left-back in Europe and Oleksandr Zinchenko coming up trumps during the business end of the season, some may question why Manchester City are in need of reinforcing the position this summer.
However, increasing links to Brighton & Hove Albion’s star full-back Marc Cucurella are certainly a sign that Manchester City aim to bring in a more traditional left-back option next season.
This could allow Joao Cancelo to compete with Kyle Walker as the first-choice right-back while a contingency plan is also in place in the event that Oleksandr Zinchenko, who is constantly linked with an exit decides to depart the club in the summer.
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As a result, City officials have been speculated with showing an interest in one of Europe and the Premier League’s most exciting young left-backs.
According to a report by Tim Spiers of the Athletic, Rayan Aït-Nouri is on Manchester City’s ‘radar’ as the player is ‘attracting attention’ from several big clubs across Europe.
However, it has been stated that Wolves are not expecting any ‘firm offers’ from any interested sides willing to prise away the Frenchman from Molineux.
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Ultimately, Bruno Lage’s side’s confidence could be well-placed as the youngster came on loan from Angers to Wolves as recently as in 2020, before signing a permanent deal just last season.
From a Manchester City perspective, it is worth pointing out that potentially exploring the option of signing the French Under-21 international could be a sign that the Premier League champions may take on a more direct approach going forward due to the added physical threat of Erling Haaland next term.
With Aït-Nouri capable of operating as both a left-back and a left wing-back as well, the highly-rated talent’s tactical versatility could be a factor that impresses Pep Guardiola into considering his acquisition as well.
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Only time will tell whether Manchester City decide to go all in for either Rayan Aït-Nouri or Marc Cucurella next season as it is clear that their intention is to bolster the left-back position in the summer.
Topics: Wolverhampton Wanderers, Manchester City, Premier League, Manchester City Transfer News & Rumours, Transfers, Football
Srinivas Sadhanand