Man City prepare bid for sensational World Cup star
Manchester City are preparing a bid for French defender Benjamin Pavard after showing interest in the defender according to German paper Süddeutsche Zeitung.
Pavard, currently at the World Cup with France, made the world stand up and take notice with a splendid volley against Argentina and has had already impressed many clubs with performances.
His inclusion in the starting XI ahead of Monaco’s Sidibe came as a surprise to many but for those who were following VfB Stuttgart in the Bundesliga last year, it was the deserved recognition of the development of the young defender.
Pavard was deployed in a variety of positions for the German club, playing in right back and defensive midfield positions but was shifted permanently to centre back after the arrival of coach Tayfun Korkut. His composure on the ball, passing ability, and technique means he can comfortably play a variety of roles.
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Those qualities at such a young age have attracted the attention of Europe’s biggest clubs with Manchester City, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich all registering an interest in Pavard.
VfB Stuttgart sporting CEO Michael Reschke has admitted interest in Pavard is growing but is adamant the club will keep him for at least another season even if it means making a loss on the transfer.
"“The Pavard theme has picked up even more pace. There is interest and requests from top clubs in Europe. But we would not sell Benji for 50 million euros this summer. We want to keep him.” – Michael Reschke confirmed after interview with BILD."
The player himself doesn’t seem too keen to leave Stuttgart at this point as he feels he owes the club but has admitted that he wants to play Champions League football.
It is widely tipped that Pavard wants to remain in Germany with his eyes set on a Bayern Munich contract, however working with Pep Guardiola may be too good to turn down.
Bayern Munich are prepared to wait until next summer when Pavard’s €35 million release clause comes into play and with VfB Stuttgart hoping to keep the player for at least one more season, City will have their work cut out to sign the player.