Manchester City are reportedly considering selling right-back Kyle Walker this summer, with Bayern Munich showing interest in the English international. As a result, City have identified Benjamin Pavard, currently playing for Bayern, as their top choice to replace Walker.
Walker has been a key player for City since joining the club in 2017, making 254 appearances and winning numerous trophies, including five Premier League titles and the Champions League. However, last season saw him spend more time on the bench as manager Pep Guardiola switched to a different formation. At 33 years old and with just one year left on his contract, Walker may be open to a change of scenery.
Bayern Munich has expressed interest in signing Walker, prompting City to search for a suitable replacement. According to reports, Pavard is City’s priority signing if Walker leaves the club. The French World Cup winner has been a crucial player for Bayern since joining from Stuttgart in 2019. He has made 162 appearances for the club, winning four consecutive Bundesliga titles and the 2020 Champions League.
Pavard’s versatility is one of his strengths, as he is capable of playing as a right-back or centre-back. This makes him an ideal fit for Guardiola’s system at City. The 27-year-old still has one year remaining on his contract with Bayern, which expires in 2024.
Interestingly, Pavard was also recently linked with City’s arch-rivals Manchester United and Barcelona. However, it seems that United’s interest may have cooled, with manager Erik ten Hag believing that Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Diogo Dalot are sufficient options at right-back.
City has been active in the transfer market this summer, signing Mateo Kovacic from Chelsea and pursuing a deal for Josko Gvardiol from RB Leipzig. However, they could also be losing other key players in addition to Walker. Former captain Ilkay Gundogan has already joined Barcelona, and Riyad Mahrez has been linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League.
As the transfer window progresses, it remains to be seen whether City will proceed with the sale of Walker and the acquisition of Pavard. The talks between City and Bayern will likely determine the outcome of this potential transfer.
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