In a recent print edition, Marca has reported that Manchester City are locked in a three-way transfer battle for Sevilla centre-back Diego Carlos this summer. It is believed that Pep Guardiola’s team will have to overcome Manchester United and Liverpool in the race to acquire the services of the Brazilian defender in this off-season.
The Spanish outfit are willing to let Carlos leave with the report going on to claim that an ‘important offer’ would be ‘well-received’ if any of his potential suitors, including Man City, end up launching a move for him during this summer transfer period (transcripted and translated by Sport Witness).
Carlos’ Majestic Debut Campaign In Spanish Football
The former Estoril defensive ace was in fine form for the side from Seville last season after he put in many dominant performances at the heart of Julen Lopetegui’s defence. The Brazilian sensation was involved in 45 matches for the Spanish club last season, registering two goals and one assist in multiple competitions.
Carlos made a good impression at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan Stadium in his debut season as he averaged 1.0 tackles, 1.0 interceptions and 4.6 clearances per 90 minutes in La Liga and the UEFA Europa League. The 27-year-old ended both those competitions with a pass success rate of 83.8% to his name, which goes to show how reliable he can be when distributing the ball out from the back (stats via whoscored).
What Will The Brazilian Centre-Half Bring To The Etihad Stadium?
The Barra Bonita-born talent is proficient at reading the game and can maintain a solid defensive shape at the back. Standing at 1.86m, Carlos is an imposing presence and excels at winning headers and earning possession back for his team. He can sense the danger quickly that enables him to make some vital clearances when his teammates need him to cover as the last line of the defence. At 27, the Sevilla star is enjoying the prime stage of his playing career at the moment, so Guardiola will be in pole position to get the best out of him if they can win the chase for his signature this summer.
Is Carlos The Right Fit For Man City This Summer?
A defender of Carlos’ skillset will be welcomed with open arms at Man City next season as he could potentially strike up a commanding defensive partnership with Aymeric Laporte. The Brazilian will also add some serious competition for Nathan Ake, Nicolas Otamendi and John Stones for a regular starting spot in Pep Guardiola’s first XI.
All in all, Carlos will be an excellent fit for the Mancunian outfit as he would bolster their defensive options significantly in the upcoming campaign. However, there are some question marks over whether he will be able to make a smooth transition to the Premier League. If the South American centre-back can maintain his good form, then he could help Man City overtake Liverpool at the summit of Premier League football and also, put up a proper fight for the Champions League crown as well.
