Man City Opinion: Why Cityzens should sign Argentine prodigy Thiago Almada?
According to a report from Wales Online, Manchester City are plotting a move for Argentine midfielder Thiago Almada.
The report states that the highly rated Argentine is also watched by Sporting Lisbon, which in return could spring a new partnership between the Portuguese outfit and Cityzens as the latter are willing to fund Lisbon’s move for the player.
Almada currently plays for Velez, Argentina’s top division club, and holds a release clause worth €25m.
Almada, a great midfielder in the making
The 18-year-old broke into the public’s eye when he was named in Guardian’s next generation in 2018.
Almada broke into the Velez’s main team last season and put some impressive displays in the process. In fact, he racked up 3 goals and 2 assists in 16 outings.
He has also played 7 matches for Argentina’s U-20 set-up so far, making his debut earlier this January. Primarily an attacking midfielder, Almada can also play as a second striker.
In the previous season, where Velez finished sixth in the league and further ensured his team’s qualification to Copa Sudamericana first stage, Almada cut an impressive figure even in the limited opportunities given that he appeared as a substitute in 9 games out of 16. Notably, he was chosen as the man of the match on two occasions.
What will be the plans for Almada at Etihad?
Elsewhere, the Sky Blues don’t have to be busy in the current transfer window as their previous season’s playing 11 turns out to be unbreakable at the moment.
However, they have struck gold by signing Spanish midfielder Rodri, who is touted to fill the void of the ageing Frenandinho.
Yet, they have to plan the contingencies for David Silva, who will be seeking an exit at the end of next season. With that being said, Pep Guardiola should look out for young talents rather than the short-term options.
In such a case, Almada is a brilliant addition, citing his young age and the potential he holds. Furthermore, the Argentine teenager can provide the former Barcelona gaffer with man solution since he is adept at playing as a fulcrum in the attacking line-up.
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However, given his creativity and diminutive nature, which is akin to his compatriot Lionel Messi, Almada can be a midfielder with attacking intent.
Verdict
Guardiola has forged many talents into big forces and one best example is Messi, one of the modern-day greats. And the former Bayern gaffer shouldn’t miss out on recruiting another Argentine in Almada, who is poised for a great future.