According to an exclusive report from the Sun, Man City look set to battle it out with arch rivals Man United to sign Argentina prodigy Thiago Almada – potentially as a successor to club legend David Silva as he approaches the end of an illustrious Sky Blues career.
Almada, who has started 10 Superliga matches for native club Velez Sarsfield this season, scoring four goals from midfield in that time, is seen as one of South America’s most upcoming talents – with Argentine fans and pundits alike apparently viewing him as ‘the new Lionel Messi‘.
Now, as per this exclusive report, Pep Guardiola and co tout him as a future heir to club legend Silva and are willing to battle United in the race for his signature – and the 19-year-old’s value currently stands at around £15 million plus extras.
Should Man City sign Almada for £15 million?
Yes, sky high potential
No, focus on signing a centre-back
City have been linked with a move for the promising teenager for over a year, but now our interest has been reignited thanks in part to our cross-town rivals potentially being ready to poach his services.
As Silva’s decade-long Etihad stay draws to a close, the Sky Blues see Almada as his equal in regards to eventually replicating the Spaniard’s influence.
Even though ‘Merlin’ has averaged more shots and key passes per game this season, Almada does possess the edge in terms of crosses and completed dribbles according to WhoScored – potentially highlighting the notion he could bring his own different strengths to the table.
However, if we are serious about acquiring him, City may need to act fast – especially if United are also waiting in the wings.