According to a report from Mirror, Galatasaray have set their sights on securing Manchester City left-back Sergio Gomez on loan. The Turkish club are eager to end the loan spell of ex-City full-back Angelino, intending to send him back to RB Leipzig ahead of schedule.
Negotiating an agreement with Leipzig could pave the way for Gomez to be considered as a potential replacement for Angelino, although he’s not their sole target of interest. Galatasaray are contemplating an initial 18-month loan offer for Gomez, which may also incorporate an option for a permanent transfer.
Gomez’s Struggles At Manchester City
Signed for £11 million from Anderlecht in August 2022, he became a part of Pep Guardiola’s treble-winning team. However, he has encountered difficulty securing a spot in City’s starting lineup. Guardiola has frequently employed a back-three formation this season, with Josko Gvardiol and Nathan Ake also playing at left-back ahead of the 23-year-old Spaniard.
Gomez has only started three matches for City across all competitions this season and hasn’t been included in a Premier League game since September. He is tied to a contract at the Etihad Stadium until the summer of 2026, making it challenging for a club to secure a permanent deal for him in January. However, a potential loan arrangement could be a feasible option, and Man City might consider agreeing to such a deal.
Would Guardiola Approve A Loan Move Even If It Means Having No Conventional Left-Back Available?
Despite Gomez’s potential, the Spaniard has found it challenging to secure regular playing time in Man City‘s star-studded squad. Pep Guardiola’s tactical variations, including the frequent utilization of a back-three formation, have limited Gomez’s opportunities.
Guardiola’s tactical variations, including the frequent utilization of a back-three formation, have limited Gomez’s opportunities. The Spaniard’s defensive system heavily relies on the versatility of his players, often using midfielders or center-backs to deputize in full-back roles.
Despite this adaptability, going without a recognized left-back for an extended period could potentially disrupt defensive cohesion and limit attacking options down the flanks. While a loan move could offer Gomez valuable playing time and development opportunities, it could leave the Sky Blues without a traditional left-back option in the squad.
On the flip side, sanctioning a loan move for Gomez might signal Guardiola’s confidence in the versatility of his squad or indicate potential plans for reinforcements in the transfer market.
