Sergi Roberto (Getty Images)
According to Sport (h/t Daily Mail), Manchester City are keen on signing Barcelona star Sergi Roberto ahead of next season.
The 28-year-old is a product of Barcelona’s La Masia academy. Since joining the senior set-up in the 2011/12 season, the versatile player has been a regular member and has helped his side lift numerous trophies over the last nine years. He is one of the main players in the Catalans’ squad and has been consistent for a long time.
The Spaniard has already won six La Liga titles and two Champions League titles with Barcelona and his versatility has been known to the footballing world. He is one of the most experienced footballers in Europe and thus, Manchester City should fight hard to secure his services in the summer.
City, meanwhile, haven’t been the dominant force they once used to be. They failed to defend the league title as Liverpool were way ahead of them in the race. Pep Guardiola’s men also failed to reach the finals of the FA Cup as they lost in the semifinal to Arsenal, who ended up winning the trophy on Saturday.
However, they are still in the race for the Champions League title but the manager needs to bring in reinforcements if they are to return to their dominant best next season. They need to add new faces to the squad to keep the depth intact.
Though City have a huge squad with a lot of world-class players, they have been inconsistent throughout the campaign. They also lack depth in some key areas. At right-back, Kyle Walker has been the only regular starter while Joao Cancelo hasn’t been at his best.
The Portuguese international has failed to fight for the spot and has been below Walker in the pecking order. Walker is also already 30 and needs a proper backup. Thus, a right-back is a must in the summer.
In that regard, Roberto would be a fantastic signing for the club. The Spanish international has made 387 career appearances and his experience could be key for City next season. Moreover, he is a versatile player and can do equally well in midfield. City are set to lose David Silva this summer and Roberto could also be a replacement for his compatriot in the midfield.
His inclusion would definitely add depth to the squad, whilst also bringing healthy competition. The Spaniard would also bring in a wealth of experience and he knows a thing or two about winning trophies.
With limited quality in the right-back, it is clear City are in dire need of a right-back and they have also fallen short in midfield with Silva’s departure. Thus, signing Roberto would give the manager various options to choose from as he is capable of playing in various positions.
