Toni Kroos, Manchester City, Cityzens, Etihad Stadium, Premier League
Former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson has urged Manchester City to try and sign Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos on a free transfer next summer.
The Lowdown: Kroos’ contract
The 32-year-old is set to be out of contract at the Bernabeu at the end of June, having spent eight years already with the Champions League holders.
As per Football Insider, the 106-cap Germany international is yet to indicate to Real Madrid president Florentino Perez that he is willing to renew his deal with Los Blancos.
Spanish media have duly reported in recent days that the Premier League champions are interested in signing Kroos on a free transfer next summer.
The Latest: Robinson’s claim
Robinson, who often works as a pundit for Sky Sports, believes that the German playmaker would be an incredible signing for Man City and has implored the club to try and get him.
Speaking with Football Insider, the former goalkeeper said of Kroos possibly coming to the Etihad Stadium: “That would be a no-brainer. He would be a great addition to any squad. He brings so much experience and quality.
“Yes, he is the wrong side of thirty but he will be going to a team that is competing in the Champions League. There is going to be a host of clubs after him I’m sure.
“Somebody is going to benefit from having a brilliant player next year.”
The Verdict: World class player
When looking at Kroos’ underlying statistics, it is easy to see why he is considered one of the best passers in the game.
As per FBRef, compared with positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year, the German midfielder ranks in the top 1% for passes attempted and progressive passes, the top 3% for pass completion and the top 7% for shot-creating actions.
Would you like to sign Kroos?
Yes
No
Dubbed a ‘world class’ player by Norwegian pundit and ex-Middlesbrough forward Jan Aage Fjortoft, it is clear to see from those figures that the 32-year-old still has the ability to perform at the highest level.
Therefore, if City can sign him on a free transfer next summer, it certainly would be a “no-brainer” for Pep Guardiola.
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