According to the reports from Calciomercato, Manchester City are one of the two clubs interested in signing veteran Italian defender Leonardo Bonucci. French heavyweights Paris Saint Germain are also said to be interested, and both clubs are waiting for a cue from the player or Juventus to sign the player.
The report mentions that with the arrival of Matthijs De Ligt, one of the defenders will have to leave the club in the summer. Apparently, Bonucci could be that man. The Italian even though vastly experienced, is yet to play club football outside of Italy. Therefore it remains to be seen whether, at the age of 32, Bonucci would like to experience a new league.
Why are Manchester City after a defender?
It is no surprise to see the Premier League holders wanting a defender after the departure of Vincent Kompany. Even Nicolas Otamendi is being linked with a move away as he is not guaranteed regular game time. City have been heavily linked with a move for Leicester City’s centre back Harry Maguire. However, the price tag of the English defender has continued to be an issue.
Therefore someone like Bonucci can be a cheaper alternative to Maguire. However, the Italian won’t be a long term option as he is already 32.
What will the defender bring at the Etihad?
The defender might not be a long term option, but the Italian is still going strong as he made 41 appearances in all competitions last season. He even managed to contribute with three goals and three assists. Juventus once again secured the Serie A title, but the Champions League and the Coppa Italia eluded them.
Bonucci is one of the finest defenders in world football with impressive overall attributes. His reading of the game, strength on and off the ball and ability to be calm and composed in possession still make him a top option.
Should City go after him?
Sending Kompany away to bring in a similarly aged player would look like a counterproductive move from the Citizens. There is no doubt that Bonucci can thrive in the Premier League, but a signing like him wouldn’t make much sense. The defender was signed by Juventus last season only so Bonucci still has a long term contract at the club until 2023. Therefore, he won’t come in cheap and paying a significant amount for a 32-year-old defender wouldn’t be ideal. So even though the Italian is still a top defender, Guardiola should look for a younger alternative.
