Manchester City boss, Pep Guardiola has already concluded a number of big money transfer deals in order to rebuild City’s squad to win the Premier League title as well as playing against tough sides in the prestigious UEFA Champions League trophy. A few of City youngsters, however, are down the pecking order and expected to leave the club either or loan or permanently, with a view to achieve first team football experiences on a regular basis.
Belgian international Jason Denayer is one such name who has been out of Etihad on loan for past three seasons. Man City now seems open to listen to offers for the young centre-back. The Belgian international, once rated highly by the Citizens, believed to be under serious interest from top sides in Premier League and a move might seem possible this summer.
The 21-year-old enjoyed a successful season for Scottish Premiership champions Celtic FC during 2014-15 season. Patrick Vieira, City’s development team coach, was full of praise for the youthful Belgian at that period of time. He said,
“When I watch Jason playing for Celtic, it makes us really proud. The way he is performing lets me know we are doing things the right stuff . The object is to provide players for the first team, but we know the gap is massive from under-21 to the first team – but this is one way we can get them there.”
Despite enjoying a league winning season with the Hoops, he failed to break into City’s senior team and was ship out on loan again to Turkish outfit Galatasaray for 2015-16 season. Denayer experience in a league known for its physical toughness, earned him loads of acknowledgements and was transferred in by Premier League outfit Sunderland on a season-long loan for the previous campaign.
However, the former Celtic man struggled due to his injury concerns, putting in some inconsistent performances. So, he was often forced to play out of position (in a defensive midfield role) by the Black Cats boss David Moyes. Sunderland went through a poor season as they got relegated to Championship and his future at his parent club became further doubtful.
He has already bag 8 senior appearances for the Belgian Red Devils and was marked as Belgium future star by the then boss Marc Wilmots for his powerful yet disciplined defensive displays. However, he has his weakness while tackling and dealing with aerial duels, the youngster is calm, composed, and knows how to use his physique while holding on to the ball. He is a good passer of the ball and also a great blocker. He is known for his intercepting attributes to break down opponent’s attacking threats.
However, Denayer is not in the future plans for Pep Guardiola who has already has Vincent Kompany, John Stones, and Nicolas Otamendi in his ranks. A few big signings have also been lined up in order to boost the strength of the backline. However, the young centre-back is well capable of slotting into a number of mid-table Premier League outfits in the form of Stoke City, Swansea City, and Bournemouth, who need reinforcements. Since they intend to construct their game from the back, Denayer would fit in well at these clubs.