PSG superstar prefers to stay despite interest from Premier League giants Manchester City: Reports
Marco Verratti wants to stay at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) despite attracting transfer interest from Premier League giants Manchester City, according to French daily Le Parisien.
Verratti is the longest-serving player in the current Les Parisiens squad, having arrived from Italian club Pescara for €12 million in 2012. The midfielder has made 414 appearances across competitions for the Ligue 1 heavyweights, bagging 11 goals and 61 assists.
The Italy international has had a successful spell at the Parc des Princes, winning 29 trophies, including eight Ligue 1 titles. He could have another league winner's medal if he helps PSG beat Strasbourg on Saturday (May 27) and clinch the title.
However, there are doubts about Verratti's future with the Parisians ahead of the summer. The Italian's performances this season, which have seen him provide just one assist in 36 games across competitions, have left much to be desired.
According to the aforementioned source, the runaway champions are prepared to sell the midfielder if they receive a suitable offer. It appears Verratti will not be short of options if he leaves Paris as several clubs have reportedly checked the possibility of signing him.
Manchester City are among the club to have enquired about Verratti, as per the said report. The Cityzens are said to be in the market for a new midfielder as Ilkay Gundogan could be on his way out this summer.
The German's future with the Premier League champions is in doubt as his contract ends on June 30. Arsenal and Barcelona have been credited with an interest in snapping him up.
Hence, a swoop for Verratti would make sense for Pep Guardiola's side. However, the former Pescara man prefers to stay at PSG if the report is to be believed, handing City a blow.
How did Marco Verratti fare in last game for PSG?
Marco Verratti's last appearance for PSG came in their Ligue 1 clash against AJ Auxerre on Sunday (May 21). He played the full 90 minutes, helping Les Parisiens claim a 2-1 win. However, the midfielder was not involved in any of the goals.
Verratti completed 135 of the 140 passes he attempted, boasting an accuracy of 96%, the most by any player in the game. The Italian won seven duels, which was the best record across both teams. He also made three tackles, including one last-man challenge.
Furthermore, Verratti made one clearance and two interceptions. He won four freekicks after being fouled four times. He also had more touches (155) than any other player in the game.