Manchester City, fresh off their record-breaking fourth consecutive Premier League title, enter the summer transfer window with a potential shake-up looming. Despite their dominant performance, key players might be seeking new adventures, making this an intriguing period for Pep Guardiola’s squad management.
As Guardiola, possibly heading into his final season, navigates this period, he faces the task of evolving one of the world’s most formidable squads. Among those considering a move is playmaker Kevin De Bruyne, a cornerstone of City’s success. De Bruyne, who will soon turn 33, revealed he is enticed by the lucrative offers from the Saudi Pro League. After missing five months last season due to a severe hamstring injury, he might decide that nine glorious years at the Etihad are enough.
Should De Bruyne depart, Newcastle’s Bruno Guimaraes, with his £100 million release clause, is a prime candidate to fill the void. Bayern Munich’s Jamal Musiala and RB Leipzig’s Dani Olmo are also on City’s radar as potential replacements.
City’s goalkeeper Ederson is another key player linked with a move to Saudi Arabia. After seven successful years at the Etihad, speculation is rife that he might be ready for a new challenge. However, with back-up keeper Stefan Ortega recently extending his contract and impressing last season, the transition might be smoother than anticipated.
Jack Grealish and Bernardo Silva are two other stars who could be on their way out. Silva, often rumored to be considering a move for lifestyle reasons, remains highly valued by Guardiola. Despite a £50 million release clause making his departure a possibility, Barcelona and Paris St Germain are keen to acquire his talents.
Grealish’s situation is different. After a stellar role in City’s Treble-winning campaign, he struggled last season due to injuries and poor form, ultimately losing his spot in England’s Euro 2024 squad. With City having paid £100 million for him in 2021, they might accept around £50 million for the 28-year-old if a suitable offer arises. Jeremy Doku’s impressive performance on the left has further complicated Grealish’s position, prompting City to consider signing a new right winger. Crystal Palace’s Michael Olise and Wolves’ Pedro Neto are potential targets, though they face competition from Manchester United, Chelsea, and Arsenal.
This summer promises to be pivotal for Manchester City, as they balance potential high-profile exits with strategic acquisitions, ensuring they remain at the pinnacle of English football.
