Joao Cancelo, Manchester City, Etihad Stadium, Premier League
Manchester City star Joao Cancelo is now of real interest to Real Madrid as they plot to sign him in 2023, according to reports.
The Lowdown: Cancelo stars for Man City…
Following a difficult debut Premier League campaign in 2019/20, the former Juventus defender has gone on to dazzle under Pep Guardiola whilst cementing his status as a City mainstay.
Cancelo’s technical quality as a full-back is arguably unmatched, with the Portuguese gem attracting high praise for his creativity and flair over the past two seasons.
As per WhoScored, the 28-year-old is one of just five Sky Blues players to start every top-flight match so far this season, with Cancelo clearly an untouchable in Guardiola’s plans. Last season, the defender also ranked in City’s top five for shots at goal and successful dribbles per 90 in the top flight – impressive numbers for someone who is nominally a defensive player.
The Latest: Real Madrid plot Cancelo move…
As a result of his fine form at Eastlands, it appears that Champions League holders Real Madrid are plotting a 2023 move for the Portugal full-back.
Mundo Deportivo claim (via Sport Witness) that Cancelo is attracting interest from the Galacticos, who ‘will try to contact’ the player next summer.
Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has apparently earmarked the City star as a natural left-back alternative to Ferland Mendy, and while he has David Alaba for that role already, the former Everton manager plans to use the latter as a centre-half.
The Verdict: Worry for Pep?
With the player contracted until 2027, City sporting director Txiki Begiristain is in a very strong negotiating position when it comes to Cancelo. The only concern for the Premier League champions could be the appeal that a club like Real Madrid presents given their rich history and big-name status.
However, if the 28-year-old doesn’t push for a move himself, Galacticos president Florentino Perez may need to invest significantly to convince Guardiola’s side to part company.
Hailed as one of City’s ‘superstars’ by members of the press, Cancelo’s quality is best highlighted by club captain Ilkay Gundogan, who branded his team-mate ‘very important’ to the cause.
If the Sky Blues are to be pushed into a sale, it would surely take a mountainous sum for them to do business with the Madrid giants.
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