The transfer window is in full swing with some sublime deals being struck already. Among those that show the most promise include Arsenal finally signing striker Alexandre Lacazette from Lyon along with Vicente Iborra’s move from Sevilla to Leicester.
One that seems to be at the opposite end of the spectrum is Kyle Walker’s reported move to Manchester City. The right-back had been linked for some time with Pep Guardiola’s side and the transfer isn't one that is particularly surprising. What is puzzling is the fee.
City are reportedly going to pay Tottenham a staggering £50 million for the services of the Englishman. In the modern transfer market fees of £50 million plus are hardly rare, however, is Walker worth that much?
He is renowned for his attacking play with his pace and endeavour the main focal point of his game. Defensively though, he leaves a lot to be desired. Under Mauricio Pochettino he has improved massively, but he is still suspect against the best players. His temperament was also questioned this season as the speculation regarding his future arose.
City do need full-backs for the coming season and so his signing would be a good one, however, Guardiola’s side were weak at the back last term and the signing of Walker will hardly completely solidify their back line.
His transfer also brings into question many other potential moves this summer, with Gylfi Sigurdsson in particular up for debate. Swansea have reportedly rejected a £40 million bid from Everton for the services of the midfielder, and they supposedly value the Icelandic international at £50 million.
Many have questioned this decision as they wonder whether he too is actually worth that much. Sigurdsson scored nine goals and notched 13 assists last season. Walker, on the other hand, clocked five assists, but it is of course folly to compare a midfielder and defender on such things.
Last season, Walker made 31 starts in the league, in comparison to Sigurdsson’s 37 starts. For Swansea, the midfielder was vital in their survival and formed a lethal partnership with Fernando Llorente. Walker’s influence slowly diminished across the season and he was eventually replaced by Kieran Trippier, who shone in his absence.
Nobody is doubting Walker’s ability. He is a superb attacking presence and he can improve upon the defensive side of his game, however, for £50 million, Guardiola would be hoping to have purchased a player far closer to the finished product than Walker is.
Sigurdsson, on the other hand, is outstanding. The main question marks hang over the fact he struggled at Tottenham, but he was not given much of a chance in London. After multiple consistently outstanding seasons for the Swansea midfielder, he deserves his chance at the top level again.
If Sigurdsson and Walker were to be assigned a transfer price then, the former should be worth more, and Swansea are right to hold out for £50 million and maybe more.
