Mganchester City might be forced to dip back into the transfer market for an attacker due to mounting injury problems, but any potential move for Eberechi Eze has hit a snag with a significant change in his transfer terms.
Reports indicate that Eze’s release clause expired at 5 PM GMT on Friday, complicating City’s pursuit of the talented midfielder. Throughout the summer, the England international hada been strongly linked with a move to Manchester City, especially after Julian Alvarez’s departure to Atletico Madrid. Alvarez’s exit has left a void in City’s attack, and Eze, with his Premier League experience and technical prowess, seemed like an ideal fit for Pep Guardiola’s side. Last season, Eze recorded 15 goal involvements in 27 appearances, scoring 11 goals and providing four assists.
City’s attacking depth has taken another hit with Oscar Bobb’s unfortunate leg injury, which will sideline him for several months. Bobb was expected to play a more prominent role this season after making 26 appearances last term.
Pep Guardiola commented on Bobb’s injury, saying, “It happened during a training session, and unfortunately, he had a significant injury. He will undergo surgery, and we hope to have him back as soon as possible, maybe in three or four months. We are saddened by this, not just because of his impressive pre-season, but because any long-term injury is a big setback. We look forward to seeing him return to action soon.”
In addition to attacking concerns, Manchester City is also keeping an eye on the future of their goalkeeping department. While Ederson is expected to stay at the club for now, City is reportedly scouting potential successors. One name that has emerged is German goalkeeper Michael Zetterer.
According to Fabrizio Romano, “Michael Zetterer was City’s top replacement option if Ederson had left the club. Zetterer is now set to start the season with Werder Bremen, although three other Premier League teams could still make a move for him; Marseille also considered him in July.”
Zetterer, who is 29 years old, had a breakout season with Werder Bremen last year, making 27 appearances. While it’s unclear how advanced any talks are, if they have even begun, Zetterer remains a name to watch as City prepares for the future.