Manchester City and Liverpool are locked in a transfer tussle for Shakhtar Donetsk’s talented midfielder Georgiy Sudakov, with Manchester City potentially having an ace up their sleeve. Sudakov, who has been on the radar of several Premier League clubs, could be a significant acquisition for either team, given his impressive performances and potential for growth.
Sudakov’s connection to the Premier League was first noted when Chelsea’s Mykhaylo Mudryk, his former teammate, recommended him to the London club. However, a move didn’t come to pass, leaving the door open for other English giants to express their interest. As the summer transfer window draws near, both Manchester City and Liverpool are reportedly keen to secure the services of the Ukrainian midfielder, who has already made waves as the youngest Serie A debutant in history.
Liverpool seemed to be in the lead for Sudakov’s signature, with reports suggesting a deal was imminent. Yet, Manchester City’s interest could ignite a competitive bidding war, as Sudakov has openly expressed his admiration for City’s Phil Foden. In an interview with The Telegraph, Sudakov likened his playing style to Foden’s, hinting at his willingness to join forces with the English playmaker at the Etihad Stadium.
Despite Liverpool’s advanced talks, Manchester City’s involvement adds an intriguing dimension to the pursuit of Sudakov. His contract with Shakhtar Donetsk, which runs until 2028, includes a substantial release clause, but this hasn’t deterred the Premier League contenders from considering an approach.
Sudakov’s potential move is further complicated by his close relationship with Mudryk, who has been offering him advice on adapting to the Premier League. This mentorship could sway Sudakov towards Chelsea, should they rekindle their interest. With a release clause estimated at £127 million, Sudakov’s transfer saga is poised to be one of the summer’s most captivating narratives, as he contemplates joining the ranks of England’s football elite.
“How to adapt, how it’s not easy to get into the pace of the game, so for me it’s very useful advice. He recommends moving to a top championship like the Premier League as quickly as possible because to develop your game it helps to adapt more quickly, physically and psychologically.”
It seems clear that Sudakov will have no shortage of options if he decides to seek a Premier League move between now and the start of next season. The pull of playing alongside Foden might just give City a crucial advantage, but Liverpool and Chelsea will have high hopes of signing him for themselves as the battle heats up over the coming weeks and months