Man City Could Target Newcastle United Star to Replace Departing Star – Report | OneFootball

Three Possible Replacements for Kyle Walker at Manchester City

As Manchester City braces for the potential departure of Kyle Walker, speculation mounts about who could fill the void left by the club’s steadfast defender. Football Transfers has provided insights into three promising candidates who could step into Walker’s boots, prompting discussions about the future dynamics at the Etihad Stadium.

Exploring New Horizons

Pep Guardiola recently confirmed that Kyle Walker has expressed his desire to pursue his football career outside of England. After an impressive stint of over seven years at Manchester City, the England international’s wish to explore playing opportunities abroad has been met with a mix of surprise and understanding from the football community.

Guardiola remarked, “Two days ago Kyle asked to explore the options to play abroad,” following an emphatic 8-0 victory against Salford City. The manager acknowledged the difficulty in envisioning the club’s recent success without Walker’s contributions, stating, “We cannot understand [what] the club did these years without Kyle.”

Photo: IMAGO

Potential Candidates to Replace Walker

With Walker’s departure on the horizon, attention has turned to who could possibly replace such a key figure. Football Transfers suggests three players as potential replacements, each bringing unique qualities to the table:

Jeremie Frimpong: The Attacking Dynamo

Jeremie Frimpong, currently with Bayer Leverkusen, has been identified as a candidate who could inject a new attacking dimension into Manchester City’s play. Despite not fitting the typical mould of Guardiola’s full-backs, Frimpong’s prowess as a wing-back under Xabi Alonso’s guidance suggests he could offer something different. His connection to Manchester City, having spent nine years in their academy, adds a layer of suitability to the prospect.

Photo IMAGO

Jules Kounde: Versatility in Defence

Barcelona’s Jules Kounde is another name linked with a move to the Etihad. Known for his ability to adapt from a full-back to a centre-back during play, Kounde’s potential availability could be timely, given Barcelona’s financial challenges. His high-level experience and versatility make him an attractive option for a team looking to refresh its defensive strategies.

Photo: IMAGO

Valentino Livramento: Premier League Proven

Lastly, Valentino Livramento of Newcastle has been highlighted as a fitting successor. Despite Newcastle’s likely reluctance to sell, Livramento’s impressive performances in the Premier League demonstrate his capability in both defensive and offensive roles. His speed and skill on the right flank could make him an invaluable asset for Manchester City.

Photo: IMAGO

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As a Manchester City supporter, the news of Kyle Walker’s intention to leave is bittersweet. Walker has been a cornerstone of City’s defence and his contributions on the pitch will undoubtedly be missed. However, the potential arrival of talents like Jeremie Frimpong, Jules Kounde, or Valentino Livramento presents an exciting new chapter for the club.

Frimpong’s history with City’s academy and his explosive pace make him a thrilling option, one that could see a homegrown talent return to make a mark on the first team. Kounde’s adaptability and experience at the highest levels of European football would provide solidity and flair to City’s backline. Meanwhile, securing Livramento would be a coup, given his proven Premier League capabilities and potential for growth.

Whichever direction the club decides to take, it’s clear that the departure of Walker will mark the end of an era, but also the beginning of a promising new phase in Manchester City’s esteemed history.