Manchester City are not too far away from cementing a place in the Champions League next season. And manager Pep Guardiola is making some serious plans to help his side compete with the best next season. He is looking to improve on almost every position in the squad and is looking at SL Benfica star Nelson Semedo as his first-choice right-back next season.
The Citizens have used the likes of Gael Clichy, Pablo Zabaleta and Bacary Sagna in this role alongside Fernandinho, to add some strength to the back line. But none of those options are expected to be the first choice for the club next season and Pep Guardiola is convinced that Semedo is the right option for his side.
Manchester United, Chelsea, Juventus and Barcelona are also interested in his signature but latest reports suggest that Guardiola has opened talks with the player’s representative over a move this summer.
Also capable of playing as a wing-back or also as a left-back, the 23-year old Portuguese international is growing in stature by the year. He moved to the Benfica senior side at the start of the previous season and has 42 appearances to his name to date. He has also won two national caps for the Portuguese senior side and is a star in the making.
Known for his exceptional eye for passing, Semedo is one of the safest attacking full-backs in Europe. He has two goals and 11 assists to his name, playing as a part of the backline and is one of the most productive defenders in Europe this season.
His dribbling abilities and spell-binding pace, allow him to get beyond the opposition back line but his discipline at the back and his understanding of the game, allow him to put in strong performances between both the boxes. He is comfortable with the ball at his feet and even at his age, shown ridiculous calmness even under severe pressure.
City are also looking at Kyle Walker and Hector Bellerin. The duo has previous experience of English football but are not viable options as they are currently playing for direct PL rivals. Semedo is a better option as he will cost less and could also be at the club for a long time in the future.
As already explained, City have limited resources in this position and Guardiola will look to keep hold of one of his experienced stars, to help Semedo adjust to the challenges of the Premier League. Do you think the 23-year old is right for Manchester City?
