Billy Gilmour is a loan target for Rangers (Getty Images)
As per El Desmarque (h/t The Express), Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is eager to sign midfielder Billy Gilmour from Chelsea.
Gilmour, 18, joined Chelsea’s U18 side from Rangers’ youth system in the summer of 2017 and helped the side win the English Youth League in his debut season at Stamford Bridge.
He also played a crucial part in the youth team’s run to the final of the UEFA Youth League last season, contributing with 4 goals and 1 assist in the competition.
The youngster made his debut for the Blues’ first-team against Sheffield United in the Premier League last August. He has been impressive for the team, despite featuring in limited games. And he made his qualities known to the football world in the FA Cup meeting against Liverpool in midweek.
Meanwhile, Manchester City have faced issues in defensive situations throughout the campaign and have already conceded 29 goals so far, which is too low by their standards of last season where they let in just 23 goals in 38 games.
They haven’t been dominant in the midfield as they were in the previous title-winning campaigns, with Brazilian ace Fernandinho mostly playing in the backline due to limited options in the defensive unit. Former Atletico Madrid man Rodri was brought in to fill the defensive midfield role but the Spaniard hasn’t lived up to the expectations.
They have been beaten by teams like Norwich City, Wolves twice and Tottenham in the league and there was evidence of their dismantled midfield line in each of these games. Hence, to strengthen the squad and add depth in their ranks, going into the market for Billy Gilmour would be a wise choice.
The 18-year-old is capable of playing in both the deep-lying role and the advanced role and he has done well so far. He was at his best against Liverpool a few days back and was able to stop almost every one of the Reds’ attacks.
The Scottish U21 has the ability to succeed at a higher level and could be a key player for City if they manage to get a deal done for the teenager. And his 4 assists and 2 goals in the Premier League 2 is proof of his abilities while moving forward.
Verdict
With just one year left for Fernandinho in his contract at Etihad, Guardiola must look to sign defensive midfielders as early as possible. And Gilmour has already done enough to catch the attention of the league.
Therefore, City must plot a move for the teenager and lure him to Etihad in the summer and he could be their player for the future.
