According to a recent report by Fotospor (translated by Sport Witness), Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is eyeing a move to secure the services of Caglar Soyuncu from Leicester City when the transfer window reopens in January. The same source has also claimed that the Turkish defensive ace is expecting to stay at the King Power Stadium at least until the end of this campaign.
However, the Citizens are currently desperate to strengthen their defence this winter after losing both Aymeric Laporte and John Stones to injury. Hence, Soyuncu fits the bill perfectly as he will an ideal candidate to fill in until Laporte completes a full recovery from his knee problem.
Soyuncu’s Impressive Form For Leicester This Season
The Turkish centre-back has made a brilliant start to this season after he helped the Foxes secure three victories and two draws in six matches in the Premier League. The East Midlands outfit currently holds the joint-best defensive record along with the league leaders, Liverpool after both teams shipped in just five goals each so far this term.
Soyuncu’s incredible run of form under Brendan Rodgers’ tutelage has been a joy to watch for the Leicester City supporters. Therefore, the Foxes are better off keeping him at the club for the long-run as he could help them break into the Premier League’s ‘Top 6’ this season.
Soyuncu has featured in seven matches for Rodgers’ side this term and has one assist to his name across all competitions. More importantly, on the defensive end, the Turkish centre-half has made an average of 2.8 tackles, 1.5 interceptions and 5.0 clearances per game in the English top-flight (stats via whoscored).
What Does The Turkish Prospect Offer On The Pitch?
The 23-year-old does not have the pace to make recovering runs at the back but he can read the game well and can position himself in the correct areas which allows him to make some vital clearances for his side. He can also make a few timely interceptions when his teammates need him to step up the most.
Why Rodgers Cannot Allow Soyuncu To Leave In January
Soyuncu can be a solid defender at the back when he is playing with confidence on the field. However, he needs to be more consistent with his performances if he wants to be a success story in English football. Rodgers cannot allow one of his best defenders to leave in January especially when the Foxes have an outside chance of securing a top-six finish in the Premier League this term.
