Sevilla are in advanced talks with Sporting CP to sign Marcos Acuña, according to Fabrizio Romano. The Argentinian, who is a left-back and left-winger, is said to be Sergio Reguilon’s replacement.
Their previous Spanish left-back is heavily linked with Manchester United, and this could be the last step in the transfer to England instead of making his return to Sevilla. His price tag stands at around €30 million, but United are unwilling to pay the full fee.
Sevilla in Advanced Talks to Sign Marcos Acuña
A Squad Regular
Marcos Acuña joined Sporting Lisbon in 2017 after a great season for Racing Club in Argentina. In his last season, Acuña scored ten goals and made 13 assists in 28 games in all competitions for his Argentinian club. His performances earned him a transfer to Portugal’s capital.
Since then, the Argentinian has been a staple in Sporting’s squad over the years. In his three seasons, he took part in 135 matches for the club. His appearances have come in many positions, including left-back, both wings, midfield, and centre-back. The 28-year-old also has good European experience on his CV.
According to Sevilla’s official website, the squad only contains one left-back. At 31 years old, Sergio Escudero will find it difficult to bear the load of matches in all competitions. This is exactly why Julen Lopetegui needs another player in the position. The ability to balance attack and defence is a requirement for the modern full-back role, and Acuña ticks all the boxes.
The Argentinian’s versatility also makes him a great candidate for Sevilla. He would be able to play in other roles if injuries strike the team, helping them compete on all fronts.
Sergio Reguilon and Marcos Acuña Compared
With the need for a left-back apparent, Sevilla have a choice to make. Should they bring Reguilon back, or finalize a transfer for Acuña?
Both players’ scoring record for last season is similar. The Argentinian made three-goal contributions for his team, while the Spaniard made six, both in their domestic leagues. In terms of crossing, an important ability for left-backs, Acuña made 165 compared to 103 for Reguilon.
Defensively, Reguilon made 1.36 interceptions and won 1.18 tackles per 90 minutes played. The Sporting player’s stats are similar once again, with 0.98 interceptions and 1.65 tackles won per 90. The two left-backs are very difficult to separate in terms of numbers.
Apart from statistics, what separates the two players is their age. At 23-year-old, Sergio Reguilon is one for the future. If Sevilla signs him on a permanent deal, he will be able to grow and help the team for years to come. On the other hand, Acuña’s advantage is his experience. The 28-year-old has a lot of matches under his belt and would help the development of other young players. Lopetegui’s other option in the position is in his 30s, which means the younger option might be a better investment.
What it Means for Manchester United
If Sevilla close a deal for Acuña, Reguilon could turn to Manchester United as his new home. There is not much place for him at Real Madrid, and, according to a series of Tweets from Fabrizio Romano, “he’d love to join Manchester United this summer”.
Personal terms are not going to be a problem for United. On the other hand, Real want around €30 million, which the Red Devils are not willing to pay. They are also unwilling to add a buy-back clause in the contract, which is demanded by his current team.
United are said to be seriously working on the transfer and will look to make the deal happen before their opening match in the Premier League. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s men will host Crystal Palace at Old Trafford on Saturday the 19th of August.
Main Photo
