Otamendi reportedly wants talks over his City future.
Nicolas Otamendi reportedly wants talks with Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola over his playing time, with the January transfer window approaching – but could Tottenham Hotspur offer him an alternative?
The Sun claim 30-year-old Otamendi is frustrated with his lack of game time, managing just seven appearances for City this season as the likes of Aymeric Laporte, John Stones and Vincent Kompany compete for places.
Former Valencia star Otamendi made 46 appearances for City last season and was integral to the club’s Premier League success, but this season he seems far less required.
Indeed, Otamendi has now requested showdown talks with Guardiola over his future, but fellow Argentine Mauricio Pochettino must convince offering the defender an escape route.
That is because Toby Alderweireld’s future at the club remains a huge doubt, as he is yet to agree a new contract with Spurs. Manchester United and a whole host of European heavyweights are reportedly keen.
The Belgium international may need replacing and Otamendi mirrors the kind of qualities Alderweireld brings to Spurs, in terms of aerial ability, being assured on the ball and being able to nab the odd goal from a corner.
Pochettino has set up somewhat of an Argentine connection at Tottenham, with Paulo Gazzaniga, Juan Foyth and Erik Lamela in the squad while plenty of his coaching staff originate from the South American country.
Otamendi’s wages at City are within that of Tottenham’s wage budget, with Spotrac claiming he earns £120,000 a week at The Etihad. It remains to be seen if City decide to offload the powerhouse defender.
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