Manchester City are reportedly set to lose out on the pursuit of Isaak Toure, who is expected to join Ligue 1 giants Marseille.
According to 90 Min, Marseille have stolen a march on Manchester City’s pursuit of Isaak Toure. The Le Havre youngster is currently regarded as one of the most gifted defenders in the lower divisions of French football and was a top target for Pep Guardiola.
Manchester City were even regarded as the firm favorite to sign Toure, who had recently travelled to the Etihad training facility. But it appears the tables have turned, with the Ligue 1 giants now on the verge of securing his services ahead of the 2022/23 season.
A centre-back by trade, Toure’s imposing 2.04m frame, coupled with his dogged defensive abilities meant he was already on the radar of several top clubs around Europe. But after a visit to the Etihad facility, he had reportedly cited his desire to join Manchester City, before eventually changing his mind.
Arsenal may have a key role to play in this as Isaak Toure is likely being brought in as a direct replacement for William Saliba. The Frenchman was on loan at Marseille this past season, but he had earlier confirmed the fact that he was going to return to the Emirates at the end of the season rather than remaining with the Ligue 1 giants.
Excited to see OM-bound, 2.04m tall CB Souleymane Isaak Touré for the very first time. Rennes also represented well as usual in a France underage team. You can follow the game and tournament here ⬇️https://t.co/pUwaBzhSTm https://t.co/KVC1DYB1Nx
— ?? Eskender Tamrat ⚽️ (@eskeFussball) June 18, 2022
Saliba’s exit has created a massive void in the Marseille defence, with the French club further losing Boubacar Kamara to Aston Villa. With that in mind, the Ligue 1 giants have opted to strengthen their quality at the back by roping in Isaak Toure from Le Havre.
Manchester City, on the other hand, will be disappointed to have missed out on the chance to sign the French defensive prospect. His imposing frame and physical traits might have made him an ideal fit for Premier League football. From a sporting perspective, the 19-year-old would have been an ideal understudy for someone like Ruben Dias.
However, with no promise of regular game-time, a move to Marseille appears to be the more logical destination for Isaak Toure, who will be keen on maintaining his solid form in Ligue 2 and proving himself in the French top-flight next season.
