Manchester City’s growing influence in the Premier League has made them a clear frontrunner in the title race although only a handful matches have been played so far. Pep Guardiola’s side are by far the best side in the Premier League as they are yet to taste a defeat in this season.
City went on to splurge the cash in the summer but despite the squad’s refurbishment Pep remains interested in a number of players. According to reports, the gaffer wants to bring Lyon defender Mouctar Diakhaby in January.
Defence has been the only section Guardiola is not well equipped with. John Stones and Nicolas Otamendi has been the preferred partner in the backline but the absence of adequate cover, in the long run, could hit them hard.
Vincent Kompany has been ruled out with an injury while Eliaquim Mangala has fallen in the pecking order. Guardiola could use the latter as bait in the deal to make the move even more concrete. Lyon’s interest in Mangala is no more a secret and the French club tried to snatch the player in summer.
But at that time Guardiola hesitated as he didn’t have the required options at his disposal but if a move for Diakhaby happens Mangala might move in the other direction.
Diakhaby earned his reputation with his rough and tough defensive skills, which came to everyone’s recognition, given his brilliant display last season. Guardiola had his representatives present as assistant manager Mikel Arteta and Txiki Begiristain when Lyon defeated Everton in the Europa League. The 20-year-old featured in the match and gave a very exemplary account of himself which has further intensified the speculation.
Chelsea also continue to watch the player as Antonio Conte has been longing for a modest centre back and might launch a formal offer when the transfer window opens. However, they might have to battle it out with Manchester City who have emerged as a financial firepower these days.
The Citizens apparently had no problems in picking up their transfer targets in the summer, as it was a pretty smooth ride for the Sky Blues. Pep would be hoping for a similar outcome next January and Diakhaby could be one of the many entrants at the Etihad Stadium.
Standing at six feet four, the youngster could throw a challenge to Otamendi who has been a regular this season. The youngster is tipped to be the most promising player to have emerged from the France in the recent times to the Premier League.
