Manchester City and manager Pepe Guardiola seem ready to pay €35 million for AS Monaco defender Benjamin Mendy in the summer, according to Calciomercato.com via France Football.
Guardiola has shown interest in the player because of his desire to improve City’s defense. The Premier League side has allowed 35 goals in 31 games this season.
Reports claim that Mendy actually rejected a chance to move to Manchester last summer. The left-back instead chose to join Monaco from Marseille for €15 million.
Manchester City fullback Gael Clichy is set to leave the Citizens at the end of the season and Mendy would be his replacement.
However, Mendy has produced at such a high level for his French side that he has even garnered the attention of Premier League leaders Chelsea.
The 22-year-old Frenchman has scored one goal and recorded eight assists in 33 appearances in all competitions for the Ligue 1 leaders this season.
Mendy possesses strong characteristics in crossing down the left-flank, hence the high number of assists. The defender also dribbles the ball and makes passes at a high level. Mendy can also win the ball in the air through a strong aerial game.
As a defender, Mendy defends the ball well and contributes defensively as the position requires versatility in defense and in offense.
If Manchester City somehow signs Mendy in the summer transfer window, the acquisition would be a big boost for the club’s struggling defense. Mendy’s qualities and abilities would suit the Premier League side well.