According to a recent report by the Sun, Manchester City are optimistic about their chances of clinching a deal to secure the services of Velez Sarsfield midfielder Thiago Almada. The same source has also mentioned that Pep Guardiola has sent scouts to catch the youngster in action for the Primera Division club ahead of a potential £20m deal in the summer.
The Rise Of Thiago Almada
Almada, who has been dubbed as the new Lionel Messi, was born in Buenos Aires and has come through the youth ranks of Velez Sarsfield before making his debut for their first-team last year.
The Argentine wonderkid is widely regarded as one of the best young talents coming out of South American football. At the tender age of 17, the Primera Division prospect has massive potential and could turn out to be a world-class player in the coming years.
Almada’s Record This Season
Almada has featured in 16 matches for the Argentine outfit this term, scoring three goals while grabbing two assists across all competitions. He is also an integral member of the Argentina Under-20 side, having made seven appearances and scoring one goal for them so far.
What Does The Argentine Whizkid Offer On The Pitch?
The 17-year-old has decent pace under his belt which helps him dribble with the ball and be creative in the opposition half. He can also link up play well from midfield and has added goals and assists to his game as well.
The acquisition of a player of Almada’s potential will undoubtedly bolster Guardiola’s attacking options in the future. However, he is still quite a raw talent and needs time to develop his game and be ready for Premier League football in a few years.
Almada’s Addition: A Move For The Future?
The Man City boss has shown in the recent past that he is ready to give his young players a chance as evidenced by Phil Foden’s recent emergence in the club’s first-team. Guardiola gave him a chance on Saturday when he repaid the faith of the Spanish manager by scoring the only goal of the game against Tottenham Hotspur.
Almada can look to follow on Foden’s footsteps as he has all the makings to become a class act in midfield as long as he can fulfil his true potential.
