Pep Guardiola is seemingly intent on bringing one signing in particular to Manchester City in 2024.
The Citizens have interestingly been linked with a number of players who operate in the same position, which suggests Txiki Begiristain has been ordered to reinforce one specific area of the squad.
So, what rumours have emerged from Manchester City? Let’s take a look…
What’s the story?
Well, there have been a number of reports linking Manchester City to left-backs in recent weeks.
During the summer transfer window, a story from Mundo Deportivo claimed that Guardiola wanted to sign Barcelona No.3 Alejandro Balde, and even made a bid.
The Spain international has since signed a new contract at the Camp Nou.
Then – as detailed by 90min – it was said that Manchester City are looking at Inter Milan No.32 Federico Dimarco, who shone against the Citizens in the UEFA Champions League final.
Furthermore, respected South American journalist Martin Liberman claimed that Manchester City are very keen to sign Boca Juniors left-back Valentin Barco, with a separate report from Planeta Boca Juniors stating that the Citizens are preparing an £8m bid.
Amidst these stories, another article from 90min stated that Manchester City are looking at Bayern Munich No.19 Alphonso Davies, who is arguably one of the best left-backs in Europe.
One story is easy to ignore, but when so many left-backs are being linked to Manchester City, it’s difficult not to sit up and take notice.
Guardiola may be planning to revert back to a four-man defence at Manchester City
The 52-year-old has transcended the tactical side of football once again across the last season and a half, adopting a unique system which pushes central defenders into midfield, and tucks the full-backs inside as well.
It has seen the role of a traditional full-back somewhat go out of the window.
Now – however – amid links to a number of left-backs, it could be argued that Guardiola is planning to revert back to a normal defence, or simply wants to have the personnel to make that change if needed.
Whatever the Spaniard is considering, we expect it to succeed based on his remarkable track record.
