There have been recent reports linking the Brazilian superstar with a move to the Etihad this summer. The belief is that Manchester City released a lot of players to other teams during the window to allow them make such a high profile signing as Neymar.
The Brazilian winger is arguably one of the most talented player across the world of football, but has fallen out of favour with current club, Paris Saint Germain. PSG signed Neymar from Barcelona for a staggering €222 million fee which holds the record for the most expensive transfer of all time.
The French club confidently spent such amount on the player with hopes that he would bring Champions League victory to them, but that is yet to come to fruition. Despite his impressive stats for the club, the home fans have frequently roared boos at the player on the pitch.
Following their failure to lift the Champions League trophy five years after Neymar’s arrival, PSG will be more than happy to release him to another club. This will further balance their financial books by lifting the burden of paying the player’s €700,000 weekly wages.
Manchester City can comfortably afford Neymar’s demands, especially now that they have had some of their first team players out of their books. Although the Brazilian will have to take a pay cut if he joins Pep Guardiola’s side, a move to England might prove to be his best option.
Why should City consider Neymar?
Having released Raheem Sterling and Gabriel Jesus to Chelsea and Arsenal respectively, Manchester City may need to sign a player to function on the flanks. Although Neymar may not have the dashing pace that City have lost in Sterling, his creativity and impressive dribbles can complement Guardiola’s tiki-taka style of play.
The 30 year old Brazilian has also proven to be versatile on the pitch, being able to perform in different areas. With an excellent attacking ability and superb view for passes in the final third, he can function on both flanks, attacking midfield, and occasionally as a false-nine.
Manchester City look to claim their first ever Champions League and Neymar could be the missing factor in the equation. He has a reputation to regain as well and the Cityzens will be elated to offer him that.
It remains to be seen whether these elements of contrasting beauty could join forces to get what they both desire.
