According to the latest reports from Brazilian media outlet Globo Esporte, Manchester City are ready to sign former Barcelona full-back Dani Alves but only if Danilo is shipped away this summer. Pep Guardiola had already worked with Alves from 2008 to 2012 when he was the manager of Barcelona, and the two enjoyed a considerable amount of success with the Spanish heavyweights.
Earlier it was heavily reported that Manchester City would sign Joao Cancelo, but the deal for the Portuguese fullback has stalled. Now Alves has become the first choice option for Guardiola. The 36-year-old is currently a free agent after his contract with Paris Saint Germain had expired last month.
It is being said that City didn’t consider Alves, but his performance in the recently concluded Copa America made them interested in him. It remains to be seen now whether Guardiola will decide to ship away Danilo in favour of Alves.
Manchester City have Kyle Walker as their first choice right-back option. However, most would agree that he is one of the weakest links in City’s back four. The Englishman is prone to errors now and then, and he also tends to lunge into unnecessary fouls and challenges. In spite of this, it seems clear that Guardiola isn’t a big fan of Danilo as Walker recently signed a new contract at the club.
Is Alves worth going after?
When the club already has two decent right-back options, then it doesn’t make sense for the club to go after Alves. Moreover, the 36-year old’s best years are behind him, and he might find the Premier League a bit too demanding at this stage of his career.
The veteran fullback might have done well in the Copa America for Brazil, but the intensity and pace of the Premier League might be a bit too much for Alves now. He can still make an impact with his forward runs, link-up play and impressive crosses, but he is likely to be found out defensively.
What should City do?
The club should look at a more long term option for the right-back position if they want to sign one. Joao Cancelo seems like a decent bet to us, and the Citizens should continue with their pursuit for him. Alves might be able to give one or two good seasons at the Etihad, but he isn’t going to be around for long. Guardiola should stick with Danilo if he doesn’t get his hands on a young and proven fullback this summer.
