According to the Chinese national online news service, Manchester City are among the clubs interested in the services of Lucas Martinez Quarta. The River Plate defender has attracted the interest of several top European clubs, as revealed by his manager. The list includes Man City, although they will face stiff competition from Real Madrid, Borussia Dortmund and AC Milan.
Taking a closer look at Lucas Martinez Quarta
Martinez Quarta has been a mainstay in the River Plate backline ever since his promotion to the first-team back in 2016. He has featured in almost 100 competitive matches for the Argentine giants. Also, the defender has won two caps for La Albiceleste. So there is no wonder why he is considered as the future of Argentine defence.
Martinez Quarta’s style of play can be compared with Real Madrid’s leader Sergio Ramos. Standing at 1.83m, he is never afraid to commit himself into tackles. The 23-year-old is also an excellent reader of the game and has the ability to make crucial interceptions by coming out of his line. These qualities make him an intimidating presence for the opposing attackers.
However, what makes Martinez Quarta simply a class apart is his technical prowess. Unlike most other robust centre-backs, the River Plate star is gifted with quick-feet. It allows him to dribble his way out of intense situations and thereby, distribute possession from the back.
Where does he fit in at Manchester City?
Manchester City currently have a shortage of reliable options at centre-back. Their key defender Aymeric Laporte has struggled with injury for the majority of the campaign, which considerably exposed their backline. Meanwhile, players like Nicolas Otamendi and John Stones haven’t done enough to impress Pep Guardiola.
Martinez Quarta, in that regard, should offer the Catalan with the much-needed depth in the defensive department. He can serve as a backup for Laporte and given his style of play; the Argentine could be considered as a direct replacement or even an upgrade over his compatriot Otamendi.
Why Manchester City must go through with a move
Manchester City are destined to face a host of difficulties in retaining their star players following their ban from European competitions. It is combined with the Coronavirus pandemic, meaning it would perhaps be a good idea for them to start from scratch. That’s where the addition of Martinez Quarta could make sense.
The Argentine international is yet to prove himself at the highest level of football. But, he has gained a considerable amount of experience at the domestic level while boasting a lot of potential. Moreover, the 23-year-old is unlikely to cost a fortune, thus providing Guardiola with a cost-effective option in his bid to bolster his side’s defensive department.
