Pep Guardiola. (REUTERS)
Manchester City have reportedly identified a key addition to their defence as Pep Guardiola ramps up his search for a ‘specialist’ right-back for the Citizens.
City are set to have a busy January, with the latest setback in their title bid only reinforcing the idea that new recruits are required to get the 10-time champions over the line ahead of Arsenal in 2025/26.
Following their 1-1 draw with Brighton & Hove Albion, Guardiola’s side are set to welcome Antoine Semenyo after swiftly negotiating his move from Bournemouth, while some outlets have linked them with a move for Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, who could come in to aid their depleted defence.
However, a report has since suggested that another area of their backline could be of interest to Guardiola as City eye up their next concrete target.
Man City ready to battle European giants for Brentford defender Michael Kayode
According to Fichajes, Man City see Brentford defender Michael Kayode as someone who ‘perfectly fits’ the profile of player they desire to fill their right-back position.
In recent years, that space has been occupied in somewhat unorthodox fashion by Matheus Nunes, particularly over the last 12 months following the departure of Kyle Walker, who had held that berth since joining in 2017.
And with the Citizens after more of a specialist in that area, Kayode is deemed as someone who ticks all the boxes.
However, City will not be alone in their pursuit, with the Italian receiving interest back home from the likes of Juventus and Inter, while Newcastle United are also keen on the 21-year-old.
With Rico Lewis the only other recognised right-back at the club, it would be no surprise to see Guardiola hunt for another player in that position.
The defence has not been at its best in recent weeks, either; City have conceded damaging equalisers to Chelsea and Brighton in the last week alone, while they shipped two to Leeds United and four to Fulham before Christmas, albeit while fortunate to emerge victorious.
Therefore, an upgrade to the back four is well overdue, and there seems to be no shortage of funds available, considering their imminent purchase of Semenyo and reported chase of Guehi.
Kayode’s experience in the English top flight will make him an ideal candidate to slot in seamlessly – if indeed Brentford are happy to entertain what would surely be a big-money approach following their circa-£15m move last winter.
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