Manchester City are considering possible replacements to reinforce their squad with key players linked to exiting Etihad. Despite winning a record 4th Premier League title in a row, City won’t be entirely happy with their campaign.
The Manchester Blues were unable to defend in Europe bowing out in the Quarter Finals at the Etihad on penalties. Moreover, the Citizens failed to lift the FA Cup against an inconsistent Manchester United. Although Pep Guardiola’s side did manage to retain the league, however, Arsenal almost had them.
Considering Arsenal have a young squad, the Gunners will be strengthening even more in the summer and coming at City stronger in the next season. Moreover, key Manchester City players like Kevin De Bruyne, Ederson and Bernardo Silva could be leaving the Etihad.
City’s reign at the top to end?
According to Manchester Evening, Manchester City Chairman, Khaldoon Al Mubarak, has stated that City may not be buying plenty this summer. However, with some of the key players leaving the Etihad, City may not be in a soft spot anymore.
Additionally, City will be hoping to sell Joao Cancelo and Kalvin Phillips in this transfer window. Cancelo was sent on loan at Barcelona. The fullback enjoyed his time in Spain and Barcelona are also open to signing him permanently. However, financial troubles at Barcelona can hamper the deal from being concrete.
West Ham made a short term loan deal for Kalvin Philips in January 2024. The Hammers had an option to make the move permanent. However, West Ham chose to opt out. City are also considering to offload Sergio Gomez from the Etihad. The Citizens may also consider cashing in on Matheus Nunes who has struggled to find his feet. Additionally, Vincent Kompany’s Bayern are keen on signing Jack Grealish.
Moreover, Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson has been the center of attention from Saudi. The Citizens are open to Ederson leaving. Furthermore, the Citizens will only consider suitable offers for the Brazilian.
Even Belgian star Kevin De Bruyne has stated about being open to Saudi move. The soon to be 33-year old attacking midfielder said:
“Saudi? At my age you have to be open to everything. You’re talking about incredible amounts of money in the last stage of my career, you have to think about that”.
Bernardo Silva is another name to the list who could be priced away from the Citizens amidst interest from PSG. With such high profile probable departures, Pep Guardiola will be keen to fill in the holes and build a complete squad once again.
How will Manchester City Cope: Possible options!
Manchester City have plenty of squad depth and financial resources to cope up with the alarming situation and reinforce their roster. Although, the problem is that some of City’s players can’t really be upgraded and barely replaced.
A suitable replacement for Ederson in goal is necessary. Manchester City can move ahead with Stefan Ortega who has impressed despite limited gametime. However, if the Citizens want a younger option, Alexander Nubel could be a potential choice.
Manchester City were ready to make a move for Lucas Paqueta. But, Paqueta’s connection with betting allegations has almost collapsed any possibility of the move. Regardless, Bruno Guimaraes is another potential midfield replacement at the Etihad. The creative midfielder has a different play style but could replace Bernardo Silva.
The Citizens were also considering Real Madrid’s Rodrygo as a forward considering his performances against them. Although, the Brazilian winger will continue to play with the record Champions League winners. Crystal Palace’s Michael Olise is considered another alternative by Guardiola’s side.
Florian Wirtz could be the ideal replacement for Kevin De Bruyne. However, it seems unlikely that Wirtz would be leaving Leverkusen this summer. Moreover, if the German impresses at the EURO, Wirtz’s asking price would be quite heavy to pay.
Manchester City will be keen to reinforce and maintain their squad depth and keep asserting their dominance by winning a record 5th league title in a row. However, the Citizens may endure a tough summer ahead.
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