Manchester City Transfer Update: Guardiola Navigates Potential Departures and Future Signings
Manchester City have maintained a relatively low profile in the transfer market this summer, a stark contrast to their rivals who are scrambling to close the gap after City’s fourth consecutive Premier League title. While other clubs splash big money, City’s focus is on managing their own squad—especially concerning players who might leave and those they aim to retain.
Pep Guardiola and the Etihad hierarchy are currently navigating the departures of key players, with Ederson and Julian Alvarez both linked to significant moves. Recent reports suggest City have struck a deal with Atletico Madrid that could see Alvarez leave for up to £82 million, contingent on various performance-related add-ons.
Despite speculation linking long-time star Kevin De Bruyne with a lucrative move to the Saudi Pro League, Guardiola has dismissed these rumors. However, he acknowledged that the future of first-choice goalkeeper Ederson remains uncertain. While no formal deal has been concluded, Guardiola’s comments during pre-season have hinted at possible changes.
“I don’t know,” Guardiola said when asked about Ederson’s future. “He has to explore his options, maybe now other possibilities.”
Guardiola continued, “Of course, I’d like him to stay. I don’t know the situation… Absolutely, he’s been crucial. He’s been the goalkeeper for a team that has seen incredible success over the last seven or eight years. We will see until the last day of the transfer window, as anything can happen.”
Guardiola’s reference to the “last day of the transfer window” underscores the uncertainty surrounding multiple City players. Ederson had a £25 million offer from Al-Nassr rejected, with no follow-up bid received.
Should Ederson depart, City might need to seek a new goalkeeper. If they do, they have an iconic shirt number—the No.1 jersey—up for grabs. Currently, Ederson wears No.31 and Stefan Ortega dons No.18, leaving No.1 as the only first-team number available. Other unassigned numbers include No.12, No.13, No.14, No.15, No.21, and No.22, along with several more in the 20s, 30s, and 40s.
With the transfer window still open, Manchester City’s plans are far from settled, and their approach to bolstering the squad will be closely watched as the season progresses.
