Published on 2024-01-24 09:06:21
Man City has agreed to let Kalvin Phillips move to West Ham for the rest of the 2023/24 campaign. With this in mind, they clearly need to find a replacement for Phillips, but any potential player will not want to sit on the sidelines like Phillips has done for long periods.
In the event of a serious injury to Rodri, it is worth considering what the club would do. Pep Guardiola is reportedly interested in acquiring Porto’s 22-year-old defensive midfielder, Alan Varela, as a possible replacement. The player has been valued at €70m by Fichajes, but Transfermarkt notes his market value is as low as €14m.
According to reports, Varela joined Porto for just €9m in 2023. If City approaches Porto for a transfer, the reported €70m valuation would present a profitable deal for the Portuguese club. However, City faces competition from Liverpool for Varela’s services.
Liverpool’s countryman, Alexis Mac Allister, has spoken about the positive experience of playing for Liverpool under Jurgen Klopp. Liverpool had previously shown interest in Varela when he played for Boca Juniors, and their longer-term interest in the player may give them an edge in securing his services.
Mac Allister spoke about his positive experience at Liverpool, highlighting the club’s desire for him as a key factor in joining. With Liverpool’s demonstrated interest in Varela, it may influence the player’s decision if given the choice.
The potential transfer of Varela to Man City could significantly impact both clubs, and it remains to be seen where the 22-year-old will end up.
