NLEX head coach Yeng Guiao. INQUIRER PHOTO/TRISTAN TAMAYO
MANILA, Philippines—Vic Manuel may want to join NLEX but the head coach Yeng Guiao feels a transaction involving the big man could be too steep of a price for them.
As per PBA.ph, Guiao feels that Alaska may have too high of an asking price for Manuel and that the Road Warriors could not meet that demand.
“Maybe we can’t give them what they want, so basically nothing will truly materialize,” said Guiao in Filipino. “I think that’s part of the consideration, who we have to give up.”
“On my part, Vic Manuel is a big asset but I don’t want to give up someone who will also be a big contributor to our cause. Of course, this will be a value-for-value transaction. We all know that, we understand that. But I think as long as it’s reasonable, as long as it’s fair, both sides benefit, maybe that’s feasible.”
Manuel is in a contract dispute with Alaska and he publicly came out that he wants to play for either NLEX, San Miguel, or Phoenix.
Guiao, however, may not want to fulfill Manuel’s wish as the Road Warriors already have a near-complete lineup heading into the 2021 PBA season with 13 players and two remaining spots to be filled up in the March 14 draft where NLEX has the third and fourth overall picks.
“We have two first round picks so those slots are reserved for them,” said Guiao. “We’re almost all set.”
Guiao, however, pointed out that Alaska should be the one to initiate trade talks.
“I think the problem is Vic Manuel himself said that he doesn’t want to play for Alaska anymore,” said Guiao. “There is pressure on Alaska to find a trade. There is no pressure on us to find a trade. I think in terms of leverage, that’s a big deal.”
“Who doesn’t want Vic Manuel? But it will really depend on the conditions Alaska proposes, if they’ll be interested in negotiating with us.”
Guiao said admitted that they are interested since Manuel already expressed his intent but the most NLEX will do is wait for Alaska to make a proposal.
“We will open our doors, but we will not come forward and make a proposal. They have to initiate it.”