Journalist Alex Crook has reported that Kyle Walker looks set to stay at Manchester City this summer despite interest from multiple clubs.
Walker played a key role in City winning a historic treble last season, but he has been widely linked with a move away from the Etihad Stadium this summer.
The 33-year-old right-back was not happy with his reduced role in Pep Guardiola’s side last season, as after the World Cup the manager adopted a four-centre-back system.
Walker did seven-straight games at the end of the season due to the injury absence of Nathan Ake, but he was left disappointed when he started the Champions League final on the bench.
It’s been widely reported that Bayern Munich are interested in signing the England international, with manager Thomas Tuchel even calling Walker in an attempt to convince him to join.
Newly promoted Premier League side Sheffield United – the club where Waker began his career – are also interested.
Is Walker set to stay?
On Monday, talkSPORT chief football correspondent Alex Crook explained live on air that Walker looks likely to stay with the treble winners this summer.
When asked about Sheffield United’s transfer plans, Crook said: “They have budget limitations this summer, I think only about £20m to spend this summer, which isn’t a lot for a newly promoted team.
“They have an interest in Kyle Walker but it looks like he’ll probably stay at Manchester City now.”
MCN view: Keeping Walker could be smart business
Keeping Walker for one more season would suit City perfectly.
Guardiola is going to stick with his four-centre-back set-up this season, so Walker’s minutes will be limited.
However, as he showed towards the tail-end of last season, in the event of an injury he is more than capable of stepping in and contributing.
As long as he accepts his new role, it makes more sense for City to keep Walker than try and find someone else to come in as a back-up option.
However, there have been reports that City are willing to offer the defender a new two-year contract. For a 33-year-old, that may be unwise.
