This week has seen Manchester City linked with Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes. Craig Hope reported earlier this week for the Daily Mail that the Brazilian international is looming as a target for the world champions. Although that move does seem like it may be a tough one to pull off in January for a host of reasons. Now Spanish midfielder Pepelu of Valencia is reportedly a target for the world champions. On closer inspection, a move for the Valencia midfielder may be more practical than a move for Guimaraes next month.
Steve Kay has reported for Football Transfers that Manchester City’s scouts have been impressed with Spanish midfielder Pepelu. Kay goes on to report that Manchester City’s scouts have completed data analysis and watched video footage of Pepelu recently. Furthermore, Kay reports that Manchester City sees the Spanish midfielder as the ideal player to step into Rodri’s shoes this season. Lastly, Kay reports that Manchester City see Pepelu as a cost-effective option to sign in January.
Perhaps it will be a player like Pepelu who could fill the void in Manchester City’s midfield.
With the January transfer window fast approaching Manchester City’s need for a midfielder or two is clear to see. The Premier League champions have been linked with a host of midfielders recently. Bruno Guimaraes is just one, but a move for Newcastle’s captain could be hard to make in January. Perhaps Manchester City will look at other options in January. That’s where a player like Pepelu could come into the equation.
Watching Pepelu play you can see why he’d be a player of interest to Manchester City. He is tidy, is in possession, and strong in a challenge. Playing as a number 6 for Valencia, he is a no-nonsense player who does the work that is of the utmost importance to his team. That’s the type of player Manchester City need in midfield. So there is a case for City to potentially move for the Spanish midfielder.
Pepelu is the latest midfielder to be linked to Manchester City. He likely won’t be the last over the coming week. But if Manchester City want a no-nonsense midfielder, he may be the man for the job. Although he wouldn’t be cheap as Steve Kay reports that there is a €100 million release clause in his current contract. But as a player, he is a no-nonsense midfielder and that may suit City’s midfield needs next month.