Former Manchester United defender Jonny Evans is apparently ‘hoping to leave West Bromwich Albion to join Manchester City’ – as per latest reports. With his contract at West Brom expiring at the end of next season, Evans is destined for a move out of Hawthorns this summer.
The Northern Irish international has been one of the most in-demand defenders in the Premier League this season, having been linked with the likes of Arsenal, Leicester City as well as Manchester City. The league leaders, in particular, did show a keen interest in the services of Jonny Evans, who was deemed as a backup for veteran defender Vincent Kompany before they signed Aymeric Laporte earlier this year.
That being said, Pep Guardiola has always been a man of perfection! Considering their recent woes in the Champions League, the Catalan boss will definitely look to iron out his side’s weaknesses in the upcoming transfer window. The defensive department, in particular, might be in need of a reshuffle with the likes Vincent Kompany already into the final stage of his career.
Aymeric Laporte and John Stones have been decent this season but with their lack of defensive cover, the newly crowned Premier League champions might get into deep trouble next season. Although Nicolas Otamendi has been an ever-present figure in the City backline this season, the arrival of a new centre-back is imperative for the runaway champions of the Premier League.
Therefore, the acquisition of Jonny Evans might prove to be a smart decision by head coach Pep Guardiola. The 30-year-old has been a key defensive figure for West Bromwich Albion, despite their poor form this season.
Since leaving Manchester United in the summer of 2015, Jonny Evans has transformed into a reliable option in the defensive department and he has built a formidable defensive partnership with Ahmed Hegazy this season, which reflects his leadership qualities in the defensive third of the pitch. In addition, Evans is a dogged defender, who is not afraid to act aggressive and commit himself into every tackle, something that’s been missing from the current crop of Man City defenders.
At the age of 30, Jonny Evans already has ample experience of playing in the Premier League, unlike Aymeric Laporte. His vast experience coupled with his ability to lead the defensive charge makes him one of the most sought-after centre-backs in the Premier League. Therefore, the addition of this former Manchester United defender can be a boon for Manchester City next season, as they aim to continue their dominance in the English top flight.
