Manchester City Prepared To Let Defender Leave With Premier League Club 'Keen'

Despite the brilliance of Kevin De Bruyne and Bernardo Silva, it is often the case one of Manchester City's unsung heroes emerges to play a vital role in a key victory.

It was particularly evident in the final game of the 2021/22 season, where the Blues - who needed three points to retain the Premier League title - fell 2-0 down to Aston Villa at the Etihad Stadium.

Multiple world class talents were not producing levels nowhere near their best, so Pep Guardiola made three inspired substitutions that went on to change the game.

Raheem Sterling - who is still considering his Manchester City future - set-up the first goal with his lightening burst of pace and cross to the back post, before Oleksandr Zinchenko produced a neat piece of skill to beat his man and lay-off Rodri.

Finally, as if it needs any introduction, Ilkay Gundogan's brace secured a memorable comeback for Manchester City at the end of one of the craziest seasons in modern memory.

Going back to Oleksandr Zinchenko, the Ukrainian has been in the spotlight now more than ever for both on the field and off the field matters.

Oleksandr Zinchenko could be on the move this summer (Sportimage / Alamy)

Off it, the 25-year-old has had to deal with Russia's ongoing invasion of his home country, but his help with aid efforts from Manchester throughout the campaign have not gone unnoticed.

On it, the full-back has showed immense quality for both club and country, with his future at Manchester City called into question. With his understudy role to Joao Cancelo at present, there is thinking he would be able to get regular first-team football elsewhere.

Fabrizio Romano has revealed Manchester City are prepared to let the four-time Premier League winner leave, with Brighton & Hove Albion's Marc Cucurella targeted as his replacement, with an official bid coming soon - a decision that was made back in May.

In addition, the Athletic add Everton are the keenest club in the Premier League to acquire Oleksandr Zinchenko's services and Frank Lampard would like to integrate him into his new look midfield next season.

The players current stance on rumours is unknown, but Manchester City's recent moves to sign a replacement left-back would seem to point in one direction.