Manchester City were one of the biggest spenders in the last summer but did justice to their spending with a record-breaking title run in the Premier League. But Pep Guardiola is still desperate to add some quality to his side and continues to be linked with some exciting names.
One such player, he is already made a move for is Milan Skriniar.
City Fail In Skriniar Bid
A transfer target for Pep even at the start of the previous season, Skriniar has turned into one of the most consistent CBs in Europe at the moment and it is understood that City are interested in him this summer as well.
Manchester United are also scouting for the Inter Milan man but reports now suggest that both Manchester clubs have failed in their initial approach for the player. The story claims that the Italian giants have knocked back bids of £53m each from both English giants and are determined to keep hold of their star. So should City improve their bid?
Who Is Skriniar?
Having started his senior career in hometown with Zilina, a Slovakian football outfit, Skriniar moved to Italy for the first time with Sampdoria. An impressive season at Stadio Luigi Ferraris saw him earn a move to Inter Milan, where he cemented his place in the first team, starting every league game for the Italian giants, helping them back to Europe next season.
A confident and effective defender, who is ready to throw himself around his side, the 23-year old is calm and composed even under pressure, which is his biggest strength. He is yet to show any kind of nerves, even against the best of opponents and was one of the best defenders in Serie A last season.
He is an excellent passer and is effective in build-up play while his ability to make interceptions in dangerous areas has made him much more effective at the back for the Italian side. He is hardly prone to errors, keeps it simple and is fast turning into one of the most exciting CBs in Europe at his age.
He picked up just two yellow cards all season, and also scored four goals, showing his ability at both ends of the field. And at his age, he is only going to get better and could be a coup in the making for Manchester City.
Where does He Fit In?
His style of play is perfect for what Pep Guardiola teaches at Etihad. He is confident with the ball at his feet and is effective in build-up play and will slot right into the backline at Manchester City next season. But City recently spent on Aymeric Laporte, who is yet to break into the first team on a regular basis.
They also have John Stones waiting on the sidelines while Nicolas Otamendi remains the first choice for next season as well. But skipper Vincent Kompany, who missed a chunk of the season with injuries, is no longer a trustworthy option for the English champions and Skriniar can easily be the long-term replacement for the Belgian ace.
However, Inter Milan are back in Europe next season and will not be willing to sell. So do you think City should try and persuade Inter into selling or look elsewhere?
