Manchester City shocker: Isco wants to join
Real Madrid starlet Isco is targeted by Manchester United, yet he reportedly favours City instead
According to reports in Spain, Real Madrid player Isco will probably leave this summer. Leading his admirers are Manchester United along with Manchester City.
However, with either Premier League giant happy to take him, the playmaker has a major resolution on his hands. Consequently, Spanish publication Don Balon has stated:
"“(The) midfielder has made a decision. If he has to leave Real Madrid next summer, he will go to Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City. The former Barça coach has already shown that he is willing to bid strongly for him with a first proposal of 80 million euros to take his services.” (Via: Don Balon)"
It goes on to say that Isco will engineer his move by “taking advantage” of Real Madrid president, Florentino Perez, who “needs” to produce funds for his team. This is possibly in relation to Madrid falling to second on football’s ‘Richest List’ to United.
There is also the fact that this current squad of galacticos are ageing and will be replaced. By today’s market valuation of Madrid-standard-players, I expect replacing their squad would be around $2 billion.
A good fit for Guardiola?
International Isco will most likely be heavily involved with Spain at the World Cup in June. Would it be best for him to have his club outcome decided before Russia 2018? Having a great tournament could naturally improve his chances of a desired transfer.
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If the 25-year-old does decide to join City, he will face extremely tough competition from Citizens forwards. Raheem Sterling and Leroy Sane have nailed down their positions. Bernardo Silva has also been quality while filling in.
Isco’s starting place for Madrid is not assured this campaign. Most noteworthy; he has featured seven times as a substitute, an indication of his current status.
There is also the issue of the horrid abuse Isco’s actress girlfriend Sara Salamo has endured for her man’s poor form. Another aspect which could encourage his leaving for England. Daily Mail say this of the issue:
"“The abuse comes after Salamo was accused by Spanish website Don Balon of leading Isco astray on a ‘vida loca’ lifestyle, resulting in a loss of form on the pitch.” (Via: Daily Mail)"
City manager Pep Guardiola was also pursuing Leicester winger Riyad Mahrez in January. With Isco preferably playing right midfield too, there could be exits. If Guardiola adds both men to his roster this summer, could we see Sane, B.Silva or even Sterling leave the Etihad?