In a recent print edition, AS stated that Manchester City attacker Ferran Torres wants to join Barcelona in January. It is understood that the Spanish sensation is willing to give up UEFA Champions League football with Man City to ensure a move to the Nou Camp when the transfer window reopens this winter.
Torres’ Injury-Plagued Season At The Etihad Stadium
Torres has missed a significant chunk of this campaign because of a fractured foot. However, the Spaniard has still managed to catch the eye by producing a few impressive displays as a key member of Pep Guardiola’s attack. The 21-year-old has banged in three goals in seven matches for Man City this season across all competitions.
The 21-year-old deserves some credit for averaging 3.3 shots and 1.0 dribbles per game in the Premier League. He has even distributed the ball relatively well in the final third based on his pass completion rate of 77.1% in the top tier of English football (stats via whoscored).
Torres Wants To Join Barcelona This January: Should Manchester City Cut Him Loose?
Torres is a good dribbler with the ball at his feet and can make some clever runs with the ball in the attacking end of the field. He can be a streaky goal-scorer at the highest level and is proficient at getting a few shots in on-target.
The Spain international is only going to get better with each season. However, he is currently not a guaranteed starter at the Etihad Stadium and seems eager on sealing a move to Barcelona next year. Plus, there are some concerns over whether Torres would be able to regain his form when he returns from his injury.
Hence, Man City should consider cutting him loose as they can use the money generated from his potential sale to recruit a quality centre-forward during the January transfer window. The Mancunian giants cannot afford to keep hold of Torres if he has his head turned by Barca. With all things considered, Pep Guardiola should think about cashing in on him this winter but only if he can bring in a suitable replacement.