Arsenal Open Talks for Out-of-Favour Man City Defender Joao Cancelo

According to latest reports, Manchester City outcast Joao Cancelo is being considered by Arsenal for a possible summer move. The Portuguese defender’s future at the Etihad looks uncertain, prompting clubs to consider making a move for him including the Gunners.

Joao Cancelo returned from his loan spell at Bayern Munich after the conclusion of the 2022-23 season. While the German giants had the option to purchase him for €70m, the club publicly expressed their reluctance to meet this high price tag.

The Portugal international reportedly had a fallout with Pep Guardiola and it is unlikely for the player to be brought back into the fold at City. Meanwhile, the Gunners boss Mikel Arteta is considered a fan and holds a positive opinion on the player.

According to The Sun, Arsenal have emerged as one of the favourites to sign Joao Cancelo in the summer transfer window. The North London side are seriously considering making a move and have began preliminary talks with Manchester City.

Moreover, as reported by Football Transfers, Arsenal are already preparing an opening bid for the Portuguese right-back. The Gunners are to test City’s resolve by submitting a £35 million bid next week. Mikel Arteta and Joao Cancelo had previously worked together during their time at the Etihad, which has potentially fueled the interest from Arsenal.

The Spanish manager views the 29-year-old defender as a good fit for his team. The Portuguese could compete with left-backs Oleksandr Zinchenko and Kieran Tierney, who is likely to be sold this summer, or challenge right-backs Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu for a starting spot at the Emirates.

🔴⚪️ | TRANSFERS: Arsenal set to launch £35m bid for Man City star.

📰: According to CaughtOffside journalist Jason Pettigrove (via FootballTransfers), Arsenal are readying a £35m bid for Joao Cancelo after a fresh round of talks with Man City.

🖊️: “Talks between the Gunners… pic.twitter.com/LxuFSRwWMS

— Punch Drunk Arsenal (@PunchDrunkAFC) June 10, 2023

Meanwhile, a number of top European clubs have expressed interest in signing the former Juventus defender. European giants Barcelona and Real Madrid are reportedly monitoring the defender’s situation, but their financial restraints put the Gunners in a stronger position.

Player Analysis

Having joined Manchester City in 2019 for a record-breaking fee, Joao Cancelo quickly established himself as an integral part of the team. Although initially facing competition from Kyle Walker, the Portuguese eventually secured a regular spot in the starting lineup. His contributions played a significant role in City’s consecutive Premier League title victories in the 2020/21 and 2021/22 seasons, as well as their EFL Cup triumph.

The defender’s time at the Etihad has been marked by exceptional performances, highlighted by his impressive statistics. With a total of 9 goals and 22 assists in 154 appearances across various competitions (stats via Transfermarkt), he has proven to be a valuable asset to the team’s attacking prowess.

His versatility as a full-back allows him to seamlessly switch between the right and left positions, providing an additional dimension to City’s gameplay. One of Cancelo’s notable attributes is his exceptional dribbling ability, allowing him to navigate through tight spaces and overcome defenders in one-on-one situations. This not only creates opportunities for his teammates but also enables him to carry the ball forward effectively, initiating dangerous attacks.

Additionally, the Portuguese’s precise passing range, both short and long, contributes to the team’s fluidity and control in possession. His crossing ability further enhances his attacking contributions, making him a formidable force in the opposition’s final third.

Defensively, Cancelo showcases astute game reading and positioning, enabling him to make crucial interceptions and tackles. His adaptability is a key asset, as he can excel in various positions, including wing-back, full-back, and even central midfield, further emphasizing his versatility and value to the team.

The North London side have managed to successfully lure two Man City players to the Emirates Stadium last summer in Oleksandr Zinchenko and Gabriel Jesus, spending a combined fee in excess of £75m on the pair. However, there remains a disparity between City and Arsenal’s valuation for Cancelo.

The Portuguese boasts an impressive track record, having won league titles in Portugal, Italy, England, and now in Germany. As the summer transfer window approaches, it remains to be seen which club will secure the services of the talented full-back.

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