Transfer Centre

Man City target Ben Chilwell as Joao Cancelo nears exit after Pep Guardiola bust-up?

By Ben Sully | 30 January 2023

Manchester City could reportedly move for Chelsea left-back Ben Chilwell to replace Joao Cancelo, who is set to leave following a bust-up with Pep Guardiola.

Manchester City have reportedly identified Ben Chilwell as a possible replacement for Joao Cancelo, who is set to join Bayern Munich after a bust-up with Pep Guardiola.

Since joining from Juventus in 2019, Cancelo has made 154 appearances for the Citizens, contributing nine goals and 22 assists.

The Portugal international has started only three of the club's 10 competitive fixtures since returning from the 2022 World Cup.

Guardiola has decided to utilise the likes of Rico Lewis, Kyle Walker and Nathan Ake ahead of Cancelo, who has been an unused substitute in Man City's previous three matches in all competitions.

According to the Daily Mail, Cancelo has been vocal about his lack of playing time, while his relationship with Guardiola has become strained.

Joao Cancelo celebrates scoring for Manchester City on October 8, 2022 © Reuters

The 28-year-old has had heated discussions with Guardiola, which reportedly reached a breaking point when he was left out of the side for Man City's 1-0 win over Arsenal in the FA Cup on Friday.

With the relationship believed to be irreparable, Man City have accepted a loan proposal from Bayern Munich.

The defender is set to join the German champions until the end of the season, with the deal also including a buy option of £61m.

Cancelo's versatility has been useful for Man City over the last few seasons, but his departure will leave them short in the left-back area.

Ake has been utilised as a makeshift option, while Sergio Gomez is yet to start a Premier League game since joining from Anderlecht.

Ben Chilwell in England training on September 25, 2022 © Reuters

With the Citizens looking to strengthen the left side of their defence, The Sun claims that they could consider a move for Chilwell.

The Premier League champions were said to be interested in Chilwell before he joined Chelsea from Leicester City in August 2020.

While a move in January is unlikely, Man City could decide to make a bid in the summer, although it remains to be seen whether Chelsea would entertain any offers.

Chilwell, who is under contract with the Blues until June 2025, has been out of action since October with a hamstring injury.

Chelsea boss Graham Potter is hopeful that Chilwell could return to the squad for Friday's Premier League meeting with Fulham.