Man City battling Man Utd to sign £30m+ “cheat code” who may replace Walker

Manchester City are now battling Manchester United for the signing of a full-back who could be brought in to replace Kyle Walker this summer, according to a report.

City eyeing replacements for Walker

It could be a summer of major change at the Etihad Stadium, with a number of long-serving players potentially set for exits, including Walker, who has already been sent out on loan to AC Milan for the remainder of the season.

There have been widespread reports suggesting Milan want to make the right-back’s stay permanent, which means a replacement will be necessary, and Pep Guardiola has identified a number of potential targets over the past few months.

One option City have in mind is Juventus’ Andrea Cambiasowith a summer approach expected for the full-back, who is able to play on both sides of the backline.

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Another player on the shortlist is Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpongwho has a “genetleman’s agreement” in place to leave the German club at the end of the season, with a deal expected to be possible for £33.1m.

However, according to a new report from TEAMtalk, Man City could face major competition for Frimpongwith rivals Man United now ready to battle it out for his signature.

The report makes it clear the full-back will leave Leverkusen at the end of the season, with the reigning Bundesliga champions in the process of identifying alternatives, and it seems as though a move to the Premier League could be on the cards.

City are said to be keen on bringing in a long-term replacement for Walker, while they are also looking to sign the Leverkusen defender’s teammate, Florian Wirtz.

“Cheat code” Frimpong is a top attacking full-back

The Dutch defender has received high praise for his ability on the front foot in the past, being lauded by freelance scout Antonio Mango in light of his performances for his national side.

The 24-year-old’s attacking prowess is underlined by the fact he ranks extremely highly on a number of key attacking metrics over the past year, when compared to his positional peers.

The only concern over the potential signing of the full-back is the fact he has been described as “average defensively” by journalist Muhammad Butt, indicating he may be better suited to a more advanced role, rather than being brought in as a like-for-like Walker replacement.

That said, Guardiola may feel Frimpong’s attacking output makes up for his defensive shortcomings, so it could still be worth pursuing a move this summer, and £33.1m seems like it could be a fair fee.