- Manchester City target Kevin De Bruyne’s Replacement
Kevin De Bruyne might play two more years at Manchester City, perhaps four, or he might even surprise us all and play until he is 40. However, as a top club striving to maintain leadership in Europe, especially in the ever-competitive English Premier League, Manchester City have started searching for players who could potentially replace him.
Since his return to the Premier League in 2015, Kevin De Bruyne has dominated English football with his incisive passing, exceptional all-around playmaking, and eye for goal. He has been Manchester City’s go-to man for magical moments under Pep Guardiola.
Manchester City are now targeting PSG midfielder Xavi Simons as a potential replacement for the Belgian maestro. Xavi Simons has been highly impressive this season while on loan at German club RB Leipzig.
The 20-year-old midfielder has lit up the Bundesliga with his dribbling, passing, and overall playmaking abilities. Xavi Simons has scored 7 goals and provided 11 assists in the Bundesliga this season, leading Leipzig’s pursuit for a place in next season’s UEFA Champions League.
Manchester City has been monitoring the Dutch midfielder for two years now. They had their eyes on him when he signed for PSV Eindhoven last summer, but PSG swiftly reacquired Xavi this summer before City could make any move.
Will PSG Sell?
With the exceptional season Xavi Simons is currently having with Leipzig, his value has now soared to around £60m. Xavi will return to PSG next season, as the club aims to build a new core, particularly if Kylian Mbappé departs this year. While prying Xavi Simons away from PSG seems nearly impossible, if there is a side capable of convincing the midfielder and getting the deal done, it’s Pep Guardiola’s City.
According to reports, the Citizens reportedly seek to secure an understudy for next season. Similar to how Phil Foden seamlessly replaced David Silva in the side, City aim to bring in a player who will learn directly from Pep Guardiola and Kevin De Bruyne.
Manchester City also like on Jamal Musiala. The Bayern Munich attacking midfielder possesses a different profile from what De Bruyne offers, but Guardiola admires Musiala’s close control and technique.
