Manchester City, fresh off their triumphant third consecutive Premier League title, have set their sights on bolstering their roster for the upcoming season. Among their targets is Marco Verratti, Paris Saint-Germain midfielder. Reports indicate that City has expressed keen interest in acquiring the Italian playmaker as they look to solidify their squad amid uncertainties surrounding the futures of Ilkay Gundogan and Bernardo Silva.
Le Parisiens who are on the verge of securing another French league title, may be open to parting ways with Verratti if a substantial offer comes their way. Despite signing a contract extension that binds him to the French capital until 2026, Verratti himself is said to be yearning for a fresh challenge beyond his long-standing tenure at PSG, as reported by GFFN.
Verratti has made a total of 36 appearances, including 27 in Ligue 1, demonstrating his significance to the team’s success. Also, the midfielder recently achieved a remarkable milestone, becoming only the second player in PSG’s history to reach 400 games for the club. Jean-Marc Pilorget holds the record with 435 appearances, highlighting the significance of Verratti’s achievement.
While Manchester City pursues Verratti’s services, PSG has also shown interest in one of City’s star players, Bernardo Silva. Barcelona and PSG have been monitoring Silva’s situation closely, and the Portuguese playmaker has been contemplating a potential departure from the Etihad Stadium, as his future with the Premier League leaders remains uncertain. However, former PSG winger Jerome Rothen has cautioned Silva against joining the Parisian club, citing a mismatch between the player’s style and the philosophy of the club’s owners.
Contrary to City’s pursuit, recent reports suggest that Verratti is reluctant to leave PSG despite inquiries from Manchester City. The Italian midfielder has been an integral part of the French side for over a decade. However, PSG’s somewhat turbulent 2022/23 campaign has led to criticism from fans, with Verratti being one of the targets of recent protests organized by Collectifs Ultras Paris. The player has taken additional measures to enhance his home security in response to these protests.
Although the club is reportedly open to selling Verratti during the upcoming transfer window, the 30-year-old midfielder seems determined to remain in the French capital and bounce back from what has been a challenging season for him individually. PSG’s disappointing exit from the UEFA Champions League, where Verratti’s mistake resulted in an early goal for the opponents, further adds to his motivation to regain his form and help the club achieve their elusive European success.
As Pep Guardiola and City’s sporting director Txiki Bergiristain prepare their shortlist of summer transfer targets, midfield reinforcements have been identified as a priority. With Gundogan and Silva potentially departing, City aims to strengthen their midfield with the acquisition of talented players like Verratti. The Premier League champions are also considering other options, including Alexis Mac Allister from Brighton and Joshua Kimmich from Bayern Munich.
The saga surrounding Marco Verratti’s potential move from PSG to Manchester City continues to unfold. While City’s interest in the Italian midfielder is evident, PSG’s stance remains uncertain.