Tottenham transfer disaster with Man City to exploit clause and ruin Conte plan for right-back signing

Man City loanee Pedro Porro

Manchester City could complete a defender transfer that would antagonise Tottenham Hotspur and one other club, according to a report.

One of the most powerful clubs in the world from both the financial and sporting aspects, Man City have long since become an attractive destination for top players. They have proven themselves to be capable of outbidding rivals for major targets.

In turn, they have constructed a very strong squad for Pep Guardiola. The manager has led them to four of the past five Premier League titles on offer.

The defending champions are behind Arsenal in this season’s title race. However, they still have the potential to improve their own squad and close the gap again.

And reports are now explaining how they could beat a different domestic rival to the signing of a defender, not by outbidding them this time, but by getting him for a lower price.

The player in question is Sporting CP wing-back, Pedro Porro. The Spaniard was on City’s books before, but never made a senior appearance before leaving for the Lisbon-based side.

His game has developed significantly since then, so there has been speculation about a Premier League return. Specifically, Porro has become a top target for Tottenham Hotspur.

Spurs need to strengthen in Porro’s position of right wing-back. As things stand, none of Emerson Royal, Matt Doherty or Djed Spence have proven reliable.

However, for Tottenham to sign Porro, they might have to bid as high as his release clause, which stands at €45million (£39.6m).

The problem, as a report from Record has reminded, is that Man City have a buyback clause for Porro. Indeed, they can acquire him again for just €23m (£20.2m).

This would be the “worst case scenario” for Sporting, since they wouldn’t get as much money for a player they feel they could otherwise make a big profit on. Meanwhile, Tottenham obviously wouldn’t be particularly happy about it either.

Man City among Pedro Porro transfer competition

In addition, Record adds that Real Madrid have joined the race for the 23-year-old. But still, Man City have the advantage.

At right-back, Guardiola can currently call upon Kyle Walker, Joao Cancelo (who often plays at left-back instead) and the emerging talent Rico Lewis.

Hence, City’s need for Porro might not be as great as Tottenham’s. Still, they could stay ahead of the competition by beating them to a deal for their target.

City’s squad depth is among the best in the world, so they may yet be able to find room for Porro. But after gaining more opportunities with Sporting, he will have to make sure his next move allows him to continue his progress.

Porro has provided 11 assists and three goals from 24 appearances this season. Since joining Sporting, he has built up a collection of 20 assists and 12 goals from 90 appearances.

His destiny could be to represent a Premier League or La Liga club. It is advantage City at the moment, but that is bad news for everyone else.

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