Manchester City Still Gunning For 21-Year-Old Right Back: Is He A Risky Bet For The Club? | OneFootball

Manchester City are keeping a steady pace on the international stage, advancing to the Club World Cup while dealing with the pressure to revamp their squad. Pep Guardiola has been clear about his needs. The Catalan manager wants more depth at right-back.

With Kyle Walker approaching the end of his career at City, the alternatives are not entirely convincing. In the midst of that context, Wesley França’s name has come to the fore. The young Flamengo full-back has attracted interest from City and several European giants. Juventus and Inter have already made enquiries. But now, it’s all about the English side’s willingness to close a deal.

Should Manchester City meet Flamengo’s €30m demand for Wesley França to strengthen Pep’s right-back options?

According to Globo Esporte and CNN Brasil, as reported by Sport Witness,  Guardiola has expressly requested Wesley’s arrival. The player is still competing in the Club World Cup with Flamengo, which could accelerate his departure. Manchester City, however, have yet to make a concrete offer.

Brighton have been linked with a £20m bid, but Globo does not mention that figure. Flamengo, meanwhile, are asking for a minimum of €30m, according to director José Boto. Although City can afford that figure, it is unclear whether the English management will make a move. Even so, the interest remains latent.

Opinion:

Personally, I think Manchester City should move decisively. If Guardiola believes Wesley can adapt to the system, it is worth paying 30 million. The market no longer offers bargains in that position, and with the possible departure of Kyle Walker, the gap is real. Moreover, Wesley offers something different: physicality, aggression, a good passing ability and a great ability to recover.

He is 21 years old and has a promising development curve. Unlike Varela, Flamengo don’t seem convinced to keep him. And if Juventus and Inter have already approached, there is no time to speculate. The Club World Cup can serve as a final showcase. If he shines, his price will rise. If not, it could become a more affordable opportunity.

Compared to other young full-backs, Wesley is more vertical. He has attacking instincts, but does not neglect his marking. He is closer to the profile of a physical rather than tactical full-back, something that could fit well with England’s demands. The player will not be a risk-free signing, but in a squad like City’s, the margin for error is wider. If Pep believes in him, they should gamble without looking back.