In a recent report, journalist Graeme Bailey claimed that Manchester City are set to rival Liverpool for Southampton keeper Alex McCarthy this summer. It has been mentioned that the Mancunian club are eyeing a move to recruit the English goalie this off-season.
McCarthy’s Important Role At St. Mary’s Stadium Last Season
McCarthy served as a useful member of Southampton’s match-day squad in the previous campaign when he put in a string of impressive displays for the Saints in English football. The English custodian made nine appearances for the English outfit last season, conceding 13 goals and keeping three clean sheets in various competitions.
The 34-year-old did well to average 1.1 clearances and 3.1 long balls per 90 minutes in the EFL Championship. He has even been careful when distributing possession from the back after making 75.7% of his attempted passes in the second tier of English football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at Southampton will run out in the summer of 2026 which could make it difficult for Man City to arrange a cut-price move for him later this year.
Manchester City Are Set To Rival Liverpool For McCarthy: Is He Worth The Fight?
McCarthy is a solid handler of the ball and has got a wealth of experience in English football. He is a decent passer of the ball and can use his quick reflexes to make a few important saves at the back. Standing at 1.93m, McCarthy is a towering presence inside his penalty box.
The experienced goalie doesn’t hesitate to put his foot through the ball when being chased down by the opposition attackers. However, at 34, McCarthy is past his prime and would only serve as a good signing for Man City in the short-term.
The English sensation would no doubt enhance the quality of Pep Guardiola‘s goalkeeping department. He has what it takes to serve as an ideal back-up to Ederson at the Etihad Stadium next season.
All in all, McCarthy would be well worth the fight, as he would help the Mancunian giants compete across all fronts over the next few years. Therefore, Guardiola would be wise to sign him a short-term contract if Man City can convince the Saints to cash in on him ahead of the new campaign.
