Manchester City are reportedly set to battle Newcastle United for 29-year-old French attacker Nabil Fekir this summer.
According to Fichajes, Premier League champions Manchester City have entered the race to sign 29-year-old Real Betis playmaker Nabil Fekir, a target for Newcastle United.
The French international was one of the best attackers in Ligue 1 during his time with Olympique Lyonnais and was on the radars of some of the continent’s best clubs. A move to Liverpool appeared close but eventually broke down in the summer of 2018.
Fekir eventually joined Real Betis and has emerged as a major player for them over the years. At 29, the 2018 FIFA World Cup winner is in the prime of his career and has possibly one big move left in him. While a move to Newcastle United would have been an intriguing prospect, the entry of Manchester City into the equation offers him an altogether different opportunity.
Pep Guardiola’s side have been dominant for several years and are currently in the midst of a rebuild. Erling Haaland and Julian Alvarez have come in to compensate for the losses of Gabriel Jesus and Raheem Sterling.
One player who is now linked with a move away from the Etihad is Bernardo Silva. The Portuguese international has been touted as a target for Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain. Silva has been a key player in the Manchester City juggernaut, and his ability to carry the ball forward was seen in last weekend’s FA Community Shield loss to Liverpool.
Losing him would leave a void in the Manchester City squad that needs addressing. This has brought Fekir to their attention, and a move could be on should the former end up moving. This represents a challenge for Newcastle, who could do with attacking reinforcements of their own.
The Magpies have chosen to strengthen their defence this summer. The attack lacks punch, and bringing in a versatile attacker like Fekir, who can play in multiple positions, is a welcome move for Newcastle United. The 2018 FIFA World Cup winner can function both as a playmaker and a goalscorer and is a matchwinner on his day.
Add to it his ability on the dead ball, and we are looking at a player who can make a serious impact on the field. Whether it be Newcastle United or Manchester City, either side could do with an attacker who can think outside the box and can carry the ball forward with purpose.
The Magpies will be advised to go all in on Fekir and make him their marquee signing this summer. The sooner they do it, the better the chances they have of trumping Manchester City to the finish line.
