Man City hoping for ‘breakthrough’ in quest to secure deal for vital Guardiola acquisition – report

The Man City fans in the Transfer Tavern are pleased with the work that Pep Guardiola has done to bring down the average age of their side’s squad. Under previous managership, the Sky Blues had relied on a group of experienced and aged personnel, and that’s a tactic that was never going to work long-term.

Young players like John Stones and Benjamin Mendy have come in to solve that problem, and now – according to the Telegraph – Pep Guardiola is eager to bring in another solution.

The Telegraph reports that Guardiola has identified Fred as the perfect replacement for Yaya Toure and, thereafter, Fernandinho – having impressed in the heart of the midfield for Shakhtar Donetsk. At 24-years-old, the Brazilian would certainly be able to serve as a long-term solution for Guardiola, and the club are said to be hopeful that they can secure a ‘breakthrough’ in their quest to land him next summer.

Signing a central midfielder isn’t a pressing issue for the club this season, given that the likes of Fernandinho and Yaya Toure can play in the role, whilst even Fabian Delph can step in if required.

That being said, long-term, Pep Guardiola will need a better solution, and Fred would be a good choice. Strong, competitive, excellent on the ball – Fred shares many traits with Fernandinho, and his time at Shakhtar Donetsk – quite like his older Brazilian – will no doubt serve him well ahead of a potential move.

Landlord’s Verdict

Not much is known about Fred in England, but he has made quite the impact at Shakhtar in recent years.

He, in many ways, resembles Fernandinho in terms of his style of play, and so he would be a pretty natural replacement.

He won’t be cheap, of course, but he’d be the long-term solution they crave.

Man City fans – thoughts?

Let us know below!