‘I want’ - Man City wonderkid makes crucial demand amid Newcastle United links
Oscar Bobb has been linked with Newcastle United as part of a potential Bruno Guimaraes deal
Oscar Bobb has admitted he wants more first-team football but is prepared to bide his time at Manchester City.
A relative unknown until last season, Pep Guardiola entrusted the Norwegian wonderkid 26 times - mostly from the bench - to ease him into the professional ranks. Capable of playing as a No.10 or out wide, Bobb’s technical abilities quickly became clear.
A gap in City’s squad opened up following Riyad Mahrez, Ilkay Gundogan and Cole Palmer leaving the Etihad. Boob took his chance - and Guardiola knows he can rely on the youngster should the opportunity arise.
Newcastle United supporters know all too well of Bobb’s qualities after he dealt them last-gasp heartbreak in January. A 91st-minute winner at St James’ Park was his first Premier League goal and may not be his final strike on Tyneside.
Reports have suggested Man City could use Bobb as bait to finalise a deal for Bruno Guimaraes. Toon chiefs have been robust with their £100million valuation since the midfielder’s release clause expired in June.
The champions believes £80million is a fairer mark and Bobb - as well as full-back prodigy Rico Lewis - may be offered on loan to sweeten the deal. Speaking on City’s pre-season tour in the US, the Norway international outlined his future goals.
“I enjoyed last season a lot, but this season I want to play more, play a bigger part,” Bobb said. “Playing for this manager (Guardiola) has always been a dream and, if I have to wait a bit longer to eventually get more playing time, then I don’t mind.
“There’s been times where I thought it might be very hard (to break into the team) but, as soon as I got the smallest opportunity, I thought there’s no other options really.”