When word first came through from France on Friday that Lyon are now looking at Jason Denayer rather than his Manchester City club-mate Eliaquim Mangala, the reaction was negative towards the latter.
How bad must Lyon think Mangala is if they ditch him for Denayer, given the season the Belgian had at Sunderland?
Well, that’s not really the case and if money were no object, it’s almost certain Lyon would move for Mangala over Denayer, but then they still may not get him.
As we explained at the time, Mangala’s trip to Lyon this week was widely given more importance than it was due, with the defender considering many clubs.
L’Equipe state in their Saturday edition ‘his price (€20m) and his salary would be brakes on his arrival’.
So, it’s too much money for Lyon, and there’s some preference at the club for Denayer instead. There’s no clear indication whether Lyon would be looking for a loan or permanent deal from Manchester City.
Manchester City need to find better solutions for both players this summer, because last time the best choices weren’t made.
Denayer was left kicking around until the end of the window, and Valencia’s deal for Mangala was never going to be made permanent at the price stated, regardless of how well he played.
After a good season in La Liga, Mangala should have takers, if he doesn’t leave permanently perhaps a Premier League loan would be a good chance for Manchester City to then eventually get a good fee. Lyon looks a better fit for Denayer, especially if the club are as keen as L’Equipe believe.
