Transfer News: Barcelona, Manchester City tracking Stephen Eustaquio

Manchester City are reportedly interested in GD Chaves youngster Stephen Eustaquio, who is also being tailed by La Liga giants Barcelona.

According to Daily Mail, Manchester City have reportedly locked their eyes on a youngster that is gaining traction as the next David Silva. GD Chaves youngster Stephen Eustaquio is not only on the radar of Pep Guardiola but his former team Barcelona as well, among other reputed clubs.

Stephen Eustaquio’s footballing journey may have just begun. But, that has not stopped the comparisons from being ushered in on the tidy playmaker. His move to Chaves has seen the player become an integral member of the squad and his performance in Liga NOS is already welcoming comparisons with David Silva.

The player himself though, draws inspiration from Sergio Busquets and even went on to say that he bases his own style on the field in an attempt to mirror the Barcelona icon.

“I think there is no smarter player in the field than Sergio Busquets, so I look at him when I occupy the position of No 6, half defensive.”

Barcelona, Manchester City, Real Betis and local giants Sporting CP are all thought to be interested in Eustaquio, with reports that Sporting have already made an opening offer. Eustaquio’s current release clause stands at around £13.3 million.

Swapping shirts literally? (Picture Courtesy - AFP/Getty Images)
Swapping shirts literally? (Picture Courtesy – AFP/Getty Images)

With the player himself admitting to his likeness for Sergio Busquets, there is little to clear as to Barcelona’s interest in the youngster. The Catalan giants are looking for recruits to help phase out Busquets in the coming years. And, bringing in Eustaquio at this moment would be the perfect choice.

It would enable the Portuguese midfielder to learn the tricks of the trade and closely observe the Barcelona superstar before finally following in his footsteps.

Manchester City may have been looking to phase out David Silva. But, Fernandinho isn’t getting any younger and the squad lacks a proper holding midfielder, which has seen City being linked with the likes of Jorginho and Fred, before the two chose to join Chelsea and Manchester United, respectively.

Pursuing Eustaquio should make sense for Manchester City. The player will be available for a cut-price buyout fee and will be relatively more open to changes in his playing style and growing at the club.

Barcelona and Manchester City, though, will have to move fast if they are to beat Sporting CP and land Eustaquio. The Portuguese giants have already lodged an offer and should be the favourites at the present moment. There is still a fair way to go. But, Eustaquio doesn’t look like he will be plying his trade for GD Chaves for long.

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