Man City now have serious interest in signing another “great” midfield star

Seemingly set for a summer spending rebuild, Manchester City are now reportedly seriously interested in signing another fresh face in midfield after already welcoming Nico Gonzalez in January.

Man City transfer news

The Cityzens commenced their much-needed rebuild last month, but may have to wait until the summer if they want to see the fruits of their labour as injuries continue to arrive.

As they kicked off their Champions League play-off tie against Real Madrid, Manchester City looked about as stable as they have been all season with a recognised backline sitting behind John Stones in what seemed their most successful attempt to replace Rodri yet. And then, following a frustrating trend, the injuries arrived.

First, off went Jack Grealish in the first-half following his impressive role in Erling Haaland’s opener. Then, pulling Pep Guardiola‘s plan apart, off went Manuel Akanji at half-time to force Stones back into his usual defensive role. Making matters worse, it has since been confirmed that the Swiss defender suffered a serious injury.

The injuries have quickly exposed the Blues’ need to rebuild and with the likes of Kevin de Bruyne currently on course to depart as a free agent this summer, those at The Etihad are already assessing their options.

According to Graeme Bailey for The Boot Room, Manchester City are now seriously interested in signing Charles De Ketelaere from Atalanta following a revived campaign in Italy.

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The Belgian hasn’t enjoyed a simple rise to the top, having initially become a transfer flop at AC Milan before a move to Atalanta revived what was threatening to be a spell to forget in Italy. Now back on track, De Ketelaere could get his biggest move yet.

“Great” De Ketelaere could replace De Bruyne

Whilst replacing De Bruyne is a near-impossible task at Manchester City, De Ketelaere should be among the top candidates to do exactly that. At just 23 years old, the attacking midfielder is back to his best and becoming an AC Milan regret rather than one they’re glad to see the back of. And when the summer arrives, he could put San Siro failure behind him once and for all.

Having a hand in 10 Serie A goals so far this season, De Ketelaere looks destined to steal more and more headlines as he heads towards the peak of his powers. Described as a “great player” by analyst Ben Mattinson, the 23-year-old has certainly kept up with De Bruyne and more this season.

When the summer arrives and De Bruyne potentially departs, the Atalanta star should be among the candidates that Manchester City turn to when searching for replacements. De Ketelaere ticks almost every box.