During his time with Valencia, Nicolas Otamendi genuinely looked like one of the finest defenders in world football. During his time with Manchester City, however, Otamendi doesn't even look like the finest defender in East Manchester called Nicolas.
Real Madrid, however, must not have been paying too much attention to Otamendi's atrocious 18 months at Eastlands and instead must be remembering him as the Valencia centre-half who was outstanding during his season at the Mestalla.
'Los Blancos' are apparently resigned to losing long serving centre half and Bernabeu favourite Pepe who, according to reports, is set for a big money move to China at the end of the season.
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Real manager Zinedine Zidane is expected to recall youngster Jesus Vallejo from his loan spell at Eintracht Frankfurt but will also look to bring Otamendi back to La Liga to provide experienced cover for Raphael Varane and club captain Sergio Ramos, according to AS.
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It is believed that Pep Guardiola will be happy to allow the Argentina international to leave the Etihad Stadium in the Summer after failing to impress during his two seasons at Eastlands.
No fee has been mentioned for Otamendi as of yet, but it is unlikely that City will be able to command a fee anywhere near the £36m they forked out for him in 2015.
(H/T AS)
Topics: Manchester City, Football, Pepe, Real Madrid
