Looks like Manchester City might be ready to let their captain move on at the end of the season. Pep Guardiola’s probably thinking some of his players’ best days are behind them, especially with the young lads like Rico Lewis coming through.
With players like him graduating through the youth sides, it makes sense for City to do away with a few of their old players to accommodate talent for the future in their side.
Manchester City have put up a price as low as €18m for Kyle Walker as per Fichajes. This is not the first time in recent seasons that Walker has seen himself linked with a move away from City. He was subject to interest from Bayern Munich as well as a return to his boyhood club, Sheffield United.
His current deal at the Etihad lasts until 2026 which basically means that the next two transfer windows are the club’s best chances to cash in on their highly successful captain. At 34, there might not be a lot of football left in him.
He has been a bit hit-and-miss lately, which has got people talking. He’s been a rock for City over the years, helping them to six Premier League titles, but his recent form has been shaky. Some reckon it might be time for a change, and Guardiola could be thinking the same.
Final season at City for Walker?
Further, the report also suggests that Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli are the front-runners to sign the former Tottenham man. Bassam Al-Hurayji and Ali Majrashi are their two right-back options. Possibly, their interest in signing Walker stems from the fact that there seems to be a lot of gap in skill levels of their backline and the rest of the squad.
Once again, the opportunity to link up with Riyad Mahrez on the right side of the attack might serve as an attractive prospect for the six-time Premier League winner.
If Walker does go at the end of the season, it’ll be a big moment for him and the club. He’s been a massive part of City’s success, and his legacy is secure. But football’s always changing, and sometimes you’ve got to make tough decisions for the greater good.
A move to Al Ahli or another club could give Walker a fresh challenge and a fitting end to his career earning him that big cheque before he finally calls it quits.
