Oleksandr Zinchenko has forced Pep Guardiola to rethink his summer transfer plans.
Manchester City’s manager is ready to shelve his search for a top class left back due to Zinchenko’s outstanding performances as makeshift cover for Benjamin Mendy.
But there remains uncertainty over Mendy’s long-term future after two injury-plagued seasons at the Etihad and concerns over his attitude.
The France international will still have to convince Guardiola he can establish himself as City’s first choice left back, with Zinchenko now providing him with serious competition even if he can maintain his fitness.
Guardiola placed a new left-back on his list of priorities for the upcoming window, along with a holding midfielder and centre back.
He is also considering adding another forward, despite Leroy Sane, Riyad Mahrez and Gabriel Jesus all struggling to hold down a regular place.
But winger Zinchenko has been a revelation after rejecting a move to Wolves last summer.
It has been enough to convince Guardiola to hold off a move for Leicester’s Ben Chilwell, who has long-been tracked by City.
Top class cover for Fernandinho remains the ultimate priority this summer, with Atletico Madrid’s Rodri emerging as a leading candidate and Lyon’s Tanguy Ndombele also tracked.
They may also need to look for a replacement for Ilkay Gundogan if forced to cash as a result of the German refusing to sign a new contract.
Cover in central defence could also be needed, with Nicolas Otamendi considering his future.
