According to a recent report by Tuttosport (via Manchester Evening News), Manchester City are set to join the chase to secure the services of Joao Cancelo from Juventus this summer. However, the same source has revealed that the Citizens will face stiff competition from their local rivals, Manchester United in pursuit of the Serie A right-back at the end of this campaign.
Cancelo’s Productive Season At Juventus
Cancelo has enjoyed a solid campaign with Juve this term after putting in some mesmerising displays for them during this season. The Portuguese defensive ace has been quite productive going forward while he is also a reliable option when defending in his own half.
The 24-year-old has featured in 32 matches for Massimiliano Allegri’s side this term, scoring one goal while grabbing eight assists in all competitions. More importantly, he has made an average of 1.8 tackles, 0.8 interceptions and 1.5 clearances per game this season (Stats taken from Whoscored).
The former Benfica starlet has also earned 14 international caps for the Portuguese national side and has three goals to his name for his nation so far.
What Will The Portuguese Talent Bring To The Etihad Stadium?
Cancelo is versatile enough to play as a right-back or be deployed in a more advanced role down the right flank. The Portuguese defensive ace boasts excellent pace and is a very penetrative dribbler while in possession of the ball. He can also whip in some dangerous crosses from the wide areas which is one of the main reasons why he has eight assists to his name this season.
The potential acquisition of Cancelo will undoubtedly bolster Pep Guardiola’s defensive options at the Etihad Stadium. The form of Kyle Walker has been underwhelming at times this season. Hence, Cancelo could provide more competition for the English full-back as Guardiola tries to steer his team towards UEFA Champions League success next season.
Cancelo’s Addition: Good Move For The Citizens?
At 24, Cancelo is about to embark upon the peak years of his career which Man City can look to benefit from over the next few years. It could be a shrewd move by the Citizens if they end up luring the Portuguese right-back to the blue half of Manchester ahead of the new campaign.
