Manchester City are in the market for a new left-back. They have earmarked Marc Cucurella as one of their topmost targets so far. But the Cityzens will be aware that it would be a difficult job to land the Spaniard to the Etihad, without the hefty fee at least.
Brighton have set their asking price for Cucurella at about 45 million pounds. Manchester City will look to sweeten the deal by adding some players in the mix. Academy boy James McAtee is believed to be such a player who may be used in a swap deal.
McAtee has already courted interest from Brighton. It may be a decent opportunity for them to get a player they desire while earning some good money for Cucurella. With high hopes of a bright future at the Etihad, City too are hesitant to let McAtee go. As a result, they have offered him on loan to Brighton.
However, Pep Guardiola is reluctant to let McAtee go permanently. The midfielder has shown an incredible amount of promise at the youth levels. 17 goals and 7 assists in 22 games is no mean feat, and it got McAtee promoted to the senior squad as well. He made his debut for the senior team when he came on as a substitute in 6–1 win over Wycombe Wanderers in the League Cup. His Premier League debut came against Everton.
Suitable Deal?
With McAtee only being available on loan, the deal may not be as attractive to Brighton. They do not want to lose their most prized asset only for a temporary addition.
Cucurella is easily one of the top fullbacks in the league. A La Masia graduate, he is strong both physically and technically. He has adapted to Premier League football very well and has all the attributes of a future star. Brighton should not be looking to part with him until a suitable offer comes in.
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