It is very disheartening to see a player like Fabian Delph struggling to reestablish his authority in the English Premier League. The midfielder’s much-hyped transfer to Manchester City proved to be a disaster for his career as neither he nor the club has been able to sort things out until now.
Injuries have prevented him from taking forward-steps in his development and it has been the main reason for his on and off football career. He was supposed to be in the thick of things after showing some promise in the last season but Pep Guardiola has gone frustrated over his injury concerns and now wants to offload the player in a bid to free some funds.
According to reports, Stoke City have expressed their interest in the midfielder. The 27-year-old remains one of the most coveted players in the top tier and the Potters want to bolster their midfield by roping him in.
If Mark Hughes needs to conquer things this season, he has to introduce some competition in every section, especially in his midfield department. Stephen Ireland’s return from injury is unknown while Gianelli Imbula’s performance in the last season has made his future uncertain at the BET365 Stadium.
The gaffer did bring in some quality in Darren Fletcher but Delph’s arrival will bring in the much-needed balance in the side which has been missing. The 27-year-old is best suited in a deep lying role in the center of the park as he has the necessary quality and flair to boss the midfield.
It is his versatility that makes him different from the other midfielders. Delph can also play up in an advanced position to get involved directly in the attack. His array of passing and knack to deliver the final ball with ease could make the difference at the BET365 Stadium if he does arrive.
City are very willing to offload the player and are ready to make a deal with any club who can offer in the region of £14m for his services. But the midfielder is not ready to give up entirely and has been pushing for a season long loan deal.
Guardiola already has a plethora of midfielders at his disposal and it is very unlikely he is going to give Delph another chance to shine at the Etihad Stadium. It will be very difficult to make any comment on his future but given the current situation, a move to Stoke would only do good for his career.
