Man City To Make A Shock Move For Ex-Man Utd Star
Reuters / Peter Cziborra
In a bid to strengthen his defense despite the arrival of the likes of Kyle Walker and Benjamin Mendy, Pep Guardiola seems to have sought help from an unlikely source.
The BBC has now reported that Manchester City are in talks with West Bromwich Albion regarding the transfer of their captain Jonny Evans.
The Irish international gained prominence during his stint at Manchester United, which saw him secure three Premier League titles including the Red Devils’ last one in recent seasons.
Interestingly, the need to sign Evans has arisen from Guardiola’s intent at securing his back four, in hopes of alleviating some pressure from captain Vincent Company. The 29-year-old fits this profile of a central defender quite well.
However, just last week, West Brom are understood to have rejected a £10 million attempt by Leicester City at luring the player to the King Power Stadium. Furthermore, just last season, Arsenal were reportedly interested in securing the services of the Irishman, which was duly rejected by his club, since he had over two years still left on his contract.
The defender left United, which had been his boyhood club, as a result of not fitting into the long term plans of then manager Louis Van Gaal, swiftly ensuring his exit to the Hawthorns.
It is clear from the rising interest that he is regarded as a top player in the position, perhaps even worthy of Champions League football. The former Barcelona manager currently only possesses Eliaquim Mangala in the requisite region. However, the his future at the Etihad is believed to be all but over.
It remains to be seen whether West Brom will part with Evans for a modest fee. Moreover, the fact that the Irishman still remains a strong United fan, having supported them since his boyhood days, might just influence his decision to not move to the other side of Manchester.
Written by Naveen Kelvin 
A writer trying to craft the poetry within football. Purpose in life is to Make Good Art.