Paulo Dybala: the Juventus free agent who could solve this problem for Manchester City

Paulo Dybala is set to leave Juventus for free in the summer after failing to agree a new deal, according to reports.

The Argentine forward has been a key member of the Turin club’s squad since his arrival from Palermo in 2015, making 283 appearances for the club.

Now the 28-year-old is set to depart the Italian giants with his contract expiring at the end of the season, as per Fabrizio Romano.

According to the journalist, Dybala will not sign a new deal with Juventus and is now set to depart the club this summer.

He tweeted: “There’s NO agreement between Juventus and Paulo Dybala. He will not sign a new deal at current conditions, while his contract runs out in June - he’s set to leave as [a] free agent.

“Juventus’ position is now clear after meeting with Dybala’s agent today morning.”

With the news he will be available for free at the end of the season, we take a look at whether he’d be a good signing for Manchester City.

Does he fit the system?

The Sky Blues haven’t played with a ‘traditional no.9’ this season instead opting for a false-9, something that pundits and fans have questioned if that is the right decision for the club.

However, Dybala could help solve the argument with the Argentine also an option in both roles, as well as able to play as a no.10 and winger if need be.

Goal-scoring stats

Goals win games and Dybala has helped contribute to 19 of the goals this season forJuventus, scoring 13 and assisting six, but how does he compare to City’s attacking options?

He has found the back of the net more times this campaign in all competitions than Phil Foden (11), Gabriel Jesus (6) and Jack Grealish (4), but not Raheem Sterling (14) and Riyad Mahrez (22).

In terms of assisting his teammates, Dybala has more than Grealish (3) and Sterling (5), but less than Guardiola’s other attacking options.

Consistent performer?

Interestingly when looking at his average rating in Serie A this season, Dybala trumps City’s  forward’s Premier League displays thus far.

According to whoscored, the Argentine is averaging a rating of 7.41, while Foden is the Sky Blues best performer with 7.26 and Jesus their lowest with 7.04.

Verdict

Based on the above talking points, it could be argued that the addition of Dybala to Guardiola’s squad would allow for them to revert to a traditional no.9, while continuing with two wingers either side of him.

In terms of fees needing to be paid for the player, it makes little sense not to explore the option, especially when it would be a free transfer. However, with rumours of Erling Haaland being on the club’s radar and the potential he has, it’s likely they will pursue the latter.