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What's the story?
With the transfer window coming to end in a few days, it is expected that clubs will be trying their best to secure the targets they've had in mind. Both Barcelona and Manchester City are challenging for league titles, as well as other major silverware, and will be busy reinforcing their team and improving the squad depth.
According to reports from various media outlet like Irish Mirror and ESPN, Barcelona will make a shock bid for Manchester City's veteran center-back Nicolas Otamendi to improve the depth of their team. City's interest in Matthijs De Ligt will play a pivotal role in Otamendi's decision to quit the Premier League champions.
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Nicolas Otamendi has played a vital role for Manchester City over the past few successful seasons. But due to the emergence of young and talented center backs like Aymeric Laporte and John Stones this season, Otamendi has slipped in the pecking order.
The 30-year-old Argentine defender has featured only 10 times in the Premier League this season and is aware of the increasing competition in the Manchester City squad.
Meanwhile, Matthijs De Ligt has already garnered huge interest across all Europe due to his majestic performances for both Netherlands and Ajax. It is no secret that European giants like Paris Saint- Germain, Barcelona and Manchester City are linked to sign the prodigy.
It is rare for a player of his age to show superior defensive abilities and composure on the ball and the calm nature of 18-year-old Dutch Center back at the back depicts why he is leading Ajax at such a young age.
The heart of the matter
Both Manchester City and Barcelona are looking to strengthen their defense, despite leading the table in their respective leagues.
It seems quite clear that Manchester City will put all their focus on signing Ajax prodigy, De Ligt, after their failure to secure the services of Frenkie De Jong. According to the report, EPL Champions are keen to bolster their rearguard and splash the cash on the young center back.
The veteran center back is bound to be unsettled and Barcelona looks to take full advantage of this opportunity. The increasing competition for Otamendi's position in the Manchester City squad makes it easier for Barcelona to complete their swoop for their target.
Rumor rating: 5.5/10
It is quite clear that Barcelona are desperate to improve their defenses, despite being top of the table. They have conceded 21 goals in 20 games in the La Liga and will turn their sight to Nicolas Otamendi after spending big to secure the services of Frenkie De Jong.
What's next?
While both Manchester City and Barcelona are looking to win the Premier League and La Liga respectively, they are desperate for success in Europe. Both the teams know the importance in squad depth needed to conquer multiple silverware.
While it is unlikely that De Ligt will leave Ajax in the middle of the season, it seems he is bound to leave Ajax to join a bigger club in the future. On the other hand, Manchester City will want to hold on tight on Otamendi and focus on their quest for winning the Champions League.
