Six clubs tipped for transfer battle for Manchester City defender that Pep Guardiola ‘loves’ | OneFootball

A new report has tipped Manchester City’s Issa Kabore for a late transfer battle from a number of clubs across Europe during the final days of the ongoing market.

The 23-year-old Burkina Faso international is eyeing the next step in a highly-rated career that is continuing to develop at the very top level of the game following a challenge season last time out.

The City Football Group talent spent the last campaign as part of Rob Edwards’ Luton Town defence that ultimately succumbed to relegation from the Premier League, but returned to the Manchester City training centre with high hopes of breaking into the top of Guardiola’s plans.

Despite having not been selected for the club’s pre-season tour of the United States, Kabore continued to train with Pep Guardiola’s first-team squad upon their arrival in Manchester, and was selected for the recent matchday squad against Ipswich Town.

With that being said, Manchester City do still have to make a decision on the player, including whether to retain his services in their first-team operation and add further depth in their rearguard for a long season.

According to the information of the Manchester Evening News’ Joe Bray, Manchester City are continuing to field interest in Issa Kabore, who could yet leave this week – either permanently or on another loan agreement away from the Etihad Stadium.

The report names Premier League duo Everton and Aston Villa as two clubs that may be in the market for a new right-back after injuries in the opening two weeks of the new season, whilst all of Augsberg, Venezia, Stade Reins and Werder Bremen have asked about availability.

Manager Pep Guardiola has recently commented on the possibility of Issa Kabore remaining at the club beyond the transfer window, to which he responded, “Maybe. He trained really good and helps with positions that we need it. Maybe. We have to decide – it is not already decided.”

The Catalan coach has been left impressed by Issa Kabore’s attacking traits showcased in training, and may feel as though the young defender adds a different profile of right-back to his existing options.

During a recent training session, the Manchester City manager was keen to praise Kabore’s goalscoring abilities by shouting, “Issa, you are a full-back and you want to score a goal, I love you! Why not?! Why not?!”

Should Issa Kabore remain at Manchester City, he will face the stern test of competing for a starting berth against the likes of Rico Lewis and veteran club captain Kyle Walker in the first-team plan.