Manchester City have been heavily linked with a move for star striker Erling Haaland in recent weeks. The Cityzens are in need of a striker to lead their offence as they currently lack a clear number-9. Moreover, their only striker Gabriel Jesus has mostly played on the wings this season. Further on, the Brazilian is anticipating an exit in the summer over lack of playing time. That would leave City with no out-and-out striker in the squad unless Haaland arrives. As a result, Manchester City are exploring other options as well, with a young striker from French club Stade de Reims now linked with a move.
Gabriel Jesus has endured a successful career at Manchester City. The club signed him in 2015 from Brazilian club Palmeiras. Jesus has since netted 94 goals and assisted 46 in 231 games for City.
However, his time seems to be up at the Etihad as he looks set leave. Amidst the colossal strikers linked with a move to Manchester City, 90min report that the club is interested in exciting prospect from Stade Reims.
Manchester City to swoop in 19-year-old Reims striker
City’s search for a striker has landed them in France. Reims’ teenaged striker Hugo Ekitike is now on their radars. Ekitike has massively impressed at Reims attracting many of the Europe’s top clubs. The 19-year-old has score 9 times for Reims in 21 league games this term, chipping in with 2 assists. He also racks up 15 shots on target in those games, a tally bettered by no other Reims player.
Furthermore, the Manchester City target has completed 26 dribbles in 21 games, ranking third among the Reims squad. Ekitike also posts 5.2 touches in the opposition’s penalty box per 90, which are evidence to his attacking threat. He also comes up with a chance created, 2.5 shots creating actions and 17.7 times pressure applied on the opponent per 90. The numbers are a proof that the youngster offers enough attacking intent.
The Reims striker is an exciting young prospect Manchester City are trying to poach. However, his talent needs nurturing which City manager Pep Guardiola can provide. Reims have price tagged Ekitike with £30 million anticipating that top clubs will come after him. Moreover, the same report from 90min claims that a host of Premier League clubs in Arsenal, Chelsea, Wolves, Newcastle United and West Ham United are keeping a tab on Ekitike.
All of the clubs named in the report apart from City are in dire need of a striker and are ready to battle it out for Ekitike. However, City seem to be the most appealing name on the list should the club table an offer for the striker. Moreover, is Jesus leaves in summer, that could pave the way for the Reims prodigy at Manchester City.
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