According to reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano, Manchester City now have an ‘official bid ready’ for Brighton to open talks over a deal for left-back Marc Cucurella.

The Lowdown: Zinchenko to Arsenal

As per Romano, Arsenal have come to a full agreement over the signing of Sky Blues full-back Oleksandr Zinchenko. The journalist reports that a £30m guaranteed fee has been agreed to by both clubs, and that the Ukraine international is set to undergo his North London medical this week.

As a result, this leaves Pep Guardiola without cover at left-back, with Joao Cancelo his only senior option remaining in the position.

The Latest: Romano’s latest news

With Zinchenko on his way to the Emirates, Man City are keen to bring in a replacement this summer.

Romano has now shared details of Guardiola’s preferred option, with the Premier League champions poised to make a move soon.

Taking to Twitter, the journalist revealed: “Following Zinchenko deal completed with Arsenal, Manchester City have an official bid ready to open talks for Marc Cucurella - he’s always been Guardiola’s top target as new LB.

“Bid to be submitted soon in order to negotiate with Brighton as soon as possible.”

The Verdict: Poor replacement?

When looking at the two defenders’ underlying statistics, the idea that Cucurella is a poor replacement for Zinchenko could certainly be suggested.

When compared with positional peers across Europe over the past year, Zinchenko rather incredible ranks in the 99th percentile for assists, progressive passes and progressive carries (via FBRef).

However, for the same stats, Cucurella ranks in the 20th percentile for assists, in the 87th percentile for progressive passes and in the 79th percentile for progressive carries (via FBRef).

Of course, Guardiola will believe he can improve the Seagulls starlet, but he clearly has some way to go to reach the Ukrainian's level.