According to a recent print edition of AS (transcripted and translated by Sport Witness), Valencia winger Ferran Torres is ‘very close’ to joining Manchester City as the negotiations between the two clubs have ‘come a long way’ over the past few days. The same source has also stated that the Spanish wide player has fallen in love with the Citizens, but is yet to give them a ‘definitive yes’ with regards to a potential transfer this summer (via Sport Witness).
Torres’ Incredible Rise To Prominence In Spain
Torres has enjoyed a productive campaign at the Mestalla Stadium after putting in a run of impressive displays on the right side of Albert Celades’ attack. He has participated in 42 matches for the Spanish outfit this term, registering six goals and seven assists across multiple competitions which highlight his growing influence in the attacking third.
The 20-year-old has found some consistency with his performances as well based on his average of 1.1 shots, 0.9 key passes and 1.7 dribbles per game in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League this season. However, the talented playmaker can improve his ball-distribution after completing only 78.1% of his attempted passes in league football so far (stats via whoscored).
Torres has also represented Spain at various youth levels, but is yet to earn a senior cap for his country. Maybe a summer move to the Etihad Stadium could give him a more prominent platform to showcase his skills and secure a place in the Spanish squad ahead of next year’s UEFA European Championship finals.
What Are The Spanish Youngster’s Best Attributes?
Torres can use his quickness and agility to make a few promising runs out on the wide areas. He can get himself into some dangerous areas in the attacking third and excels at delivering some inviting crosses into the opposition penalty box. However, the Spanish whizkid is still quite raw and would need time to improve his overall productivity in front of the opposition goal.
Will Torres Be A Decent Choice For Pep Guardiola?
Recruiting a winger of Torres’ potential will be a massive coup for the Citizens and their long-term ambitions as a football club. He will not add more creativity and goals to Pep Guardiola’s attack, but also enhance the depth of his squad at the Etihad. Plus, he will offer some healthy competition for the likes of Raheem Sterling, Riyad Mahrez, Bernardo Silva and Phil Foden at the north-west of England next season.
The Spaniard could also serve as a like for like replacement for Leroy Sane which makes him a great choice for Man City to consider when the transfer window reopens later this month. At 20, the Valencia youth product has already proven his worth in the Spanish top-flight. However, the jury is still out on whether he can maintain his impressive numbers in the Premier League, which is known for its physical nature and high intensity.
