With the summer transfer window just a couple weeks away, Gavin Bazunu is one of Europe’s hottest properties.
This week Bazunu was linked with a move to Everton with reports that the Toffees might look to cash in on England number one Jordan Pickford.
The Firhouse shot-stopper made 44 League One appearances for Portsmouth this season and has been rumoured to make a move further down the south coast to rivals Southampton.
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Still just 20 years old, not turning 21 until February 2023, the former Shamrock Rovers’ prodigy is a wanted man.
“It's a small bit up in the air as to what will happen,” said the Irish Independent’s Dan McDonnell on Football Saturday.
“Man City have a slight dilemma with Ederson who is a top class goalkeeper and Bazunu who is rated extremely highly, but I don’t know if Bazunu necessarily wants to be a number two.
“It’s at the stage where there are proper discussions taking place (regarding Bazunu’s long-term future). I think if City do sell him, it’s very possible they will have the buy-back option which is the best of both worlds.”
Bazunu was pictured at Tallaght Stadium speaking with Republic of Ireland boss Stephen Kenny on Friday night, as their old side cemented their place at the top of the league after a 1-0 win against title rivals Derry City.
With Mark Travers putting in an impressive season with Bournemouth playing a vital role in their promotion to the Premier League, and Caoimhin Kelleher continuing to impress at Liverpool whenever Alisson is unavailable, Bazunu will want to make sure he plays to maintain his grasp on the number one shirt at international level.
“I think what we know about Bazunu is that he wants to play so I don’t think he would go somewhere without knowing that there is genuinely going to be gametime and if he had to wait somewhere for someone to move on, he won’t be waiting too long,” said McDonnell.
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Irish players have been encouraged by Kenny to perhaps broaden their horizons and look outside of the English leagues to secure first team football. Josh Cullen is a prime example, excelling at Vincent Kompany’s Anderlecht side.
Bazunu has been linked with clubs further afield, with clubs in Serie A and the Bundesliga keeping tabs on Irish ‘keeper. The relationship between Bazunu and Manchester City’s head of goalkeeping Xabi Mancisidor has developed closely, with the Spaniard keeping a very close eye on his loans at Rochdale and Portsmouth.
The opportunity to work with one of the best coaches in world football, Pep Guardiola is also an attractive proposition for Bazunu to bide his time at Eastlands.
Bazunu would suit a continental way of playing football, comfortable on the ball, willing to get involved in build-up play, he displays all the hallmarks of a modern goalkeeper.
Whatever happens, wherever Bazunu ends up, the Irish number one shirt is in safe hands.
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