Are Man City winning their local tug-of-war for Otamendi?
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After months and months of speculation that Argentine centre-back Nicolas Otamendi will become a Manchester United player this summer, the Red Devils’ local rivals look to be springing a late surprise in the race for his signature.
Manchester City are, according to the Mirror, ready to launch a late attempt at landing the Valencia man.
Rated at £35m by his Spanish club, the 27-year-old is certainly hot property this summer, but which of the two Manchester clubs would be a better fit for him?
Our below graphic highlights a few of the pros and cons associated with moving to either Premier League outfit, with the Etihad looking like the more rosy landing spot for the centre-back:
Although United’s would be an easier backline to break in to, and could well see Otamendi play alongside his countryman Marcos Rojo, the 1/5 top-four chances have had a dire history with their Argentine signings.
Rojo himself endured an injury-laden maiden campaign at Old Trafford, while Angel Di Maria was sold after one uninspiring season. Going further back, Gabriel Heinze, Juan Sebastian Veron and Carlos Tevez had chequered histories.
There would also be no guarantee that Otamendi would play in his preferred position at United, as Louis van Gaal continues to tinker tactically.
At City, a raft of familiar faces – like Martin Demichelis and Sergio Aguero – would help the Buenos Aires native settle, while the Citizens – who find themselves priced as Ladbrokes’ 13/8 Premier League favourites – would provide greater trophy challenges than the Red Devils.
On the negative side though, new centre backs haven’t fared too well at the Etihad in recent seasons, while his route to partner club captain Vincent Kompany in the starting lineup is blocked by both Demichelis and Eliaquim Mangala.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.
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