According to a report from Daily Mirror journalist David Maddock, the Sky Blues look set to tussle with bitter Premier League rivals Liverpool over the signature of ‘prized‘ European talent Aster Vranckx – and the teenager could apparently be made available for just £1.5 million.
Vranckx, who has started seven games for Belgian side KV Mechelen this season, registering a goal and two assists in that time, apparently burst on to the scene earlier this campaign before scoring in a 2-0 win over Anderlecht back in February.
Despite having watched him previously, scouts sent by both City and Liverpool have been particularly impressed with the youngster’s recent development – so much so that they now plan to go head to head for his signature as the recent pandemic clouds a money-spending market.
Should City focus on youth development this summer?
Yes, the market is too unpredictable
No, we need to bolster the squad
A scout report from Bristol Live claims that the 17-year-old has a ‘high footballing IQ‘ and plays in the ‘no.6′ role akin to City midfielder Fernandinho’s natural position – with his tall and athletic build potentially enticing Sky Blue scouts to seriously consider a swoop for the teenager.
While it’s certainly unclear that he could replicate our Brazilian club legend in future years, the fact he could be made available for as little as £1.5m may represent a potential bargain in the air.
Indeed, according to Maddock, City have sent representatives to watch the midfielder on ‘three separate occasions‘ – potentially highlighting a strong interest.
As the market becomes unpredictable due to the impact of a recent pandemic, any perceived bargain buy should be welcomed at the Etihad.