As Manchester City gears up for the summer transfer window, plenty of changes are expected.
With several key players potentially leaving and exciting new faces set to join the squad, all eyes are on the Etihad as the club prepares for its next chapter.
City expert Jack Gaughan has broken down the latest insights into the club’s transfer strategy and the potential moves that could shape the team.
Wirtz Transfer Saga: Who Will Take Kevin De Bruyne’s Spot?
One of the most pressing questions on every City fan’s mind is the future of Florian Wirtz, the German creative talent who has long been on City’s radar.
With Kevin De Bruyne’s impending exit, Wirtz is being eyed as the perfect replacement in the midfield.
The situation remains complicated, though. While City has made no secret of their interest in Wirtz, the player’s family dynamics are playing a significant role in the decision-making process.
His father is pushing for a move to Bayern Munich, while his mother is inclined to see him stay at Bayer Leverkusen for another season.
Wirtz himself is reportedly more open to a move to Manchester, and his relationship with Bayern’s Jamal Musiala could influence his decision.
The Bundesliga season’s end on May 17 could bring some clarity, but it’s still a waiting game for City fans.
What if Wirtz Doesn’t Move to Manchester?
While City’s priority remains Wirtz, they are prepared to pivot if the deal doesn’t materialize.
Players like Rayan Cherki and Xavi Simons have been mentioned, but for now, Wirtz is the main target.
Within the current squad, Phil Foden and Omar Marmoush could also step into the role, providing flexibility depending on Jack Grealish’s future at the club.
However, with Grealish’s limited appearances since December, a departure may be on the cards.
City will want a good return on their £100 million investment from 2021, but a transfer depends heavily on the summer’s outgoings.
Key Areas City Are Looking to Strengthen
Midfield and full-back positions are high on City’s shopping list for the summer.
One player who could join is Morgan Gibbs-White, should Nottingham Forest fail to secure Champions League football.
Gibbs-White’s versatility as a No 8 could provide depth in the midfield, and his addition would strengthen an already solid lineup.
Full-back options are also being closely monitored. Nico O’Reilly has impressed at left-back, but City could still pursue Andrea Cambiaso from Juventus, a player who can operate on both wings.
Cambiaso’s flexibility fits Guardiola’s tactics, and City may look to address the right-back position more urgently.
As for the goalkeeping situation, Ederson’s future will have a significant impact on whether City pursue another goalkeeper like Porto’s Diogo Costa.
What Happened to Abdukodir Khusanov?
Abdukodir Khusanov’s absence from the first team has left many wondering what’s next for the Uzbek midfielder, especially after he was named Player of the Month in February.
Khusanov’s limited game time can be attributed to a combination of factors, including his late arrival at the club and the emergence of other players like O’Reilly and Gvardiol.
However, the 20-year-old has been focusing on his development, including working hard to improve his English.
The long-term goal for Khusanov may involve more consistent playing time, and with the right opportunities, he could emerge as an important part of the squad moving forward.
De Bruyne’s Future: Will He Stay or Go?
As one of the most iconic players in City’s history, Kevin De Bruyne’s contract situation has raised plenty of questions.
With his current deal nearing its end, the 33-year-old’s future at the club is uncertain.
Despite ongoing interest from clubs like Chicago Fire and Napoli, De Bruyne is unlikely to stay in the Premier League.
City may decide it’s time to part ways, and his final match at the Etihad on May 20 could mark the end of an era for the Belgian.
Who Could Replace Pep Guardiola?
A question that has been looming for years is who will take over from Pep Guardiola when he decides to step down.
While Guardiola’s future remains uncertain, there are a few potential candidates to replace him, with Germany’s Julian Nagelsmann standing out as a likely successor.
Nagelsmann’s success at Bayern Munich and his recent achievements with Germany make him an attractive option for City.
Other names like Luis Enrique have also been suggested, but for now, Guardiola shows no signs of leaving anytime soon.
Homegrown Players: Who Will Stay and Who Will Go?
Manchester City’s homegrown player situation is an important factor in their squad planning for the 2025-2026 season.
With eight homegrown players required for both Premier League and Champions League registration, City will need to make some decisions.
Kyle Walker’s future is uncertain, while players like Jack Grealish, John Stones, and Nathan Ake may also be on the move.
However, young talents like Rico Lewis and O’Reilly could step up, providing valuable homegrown options for the team.
Are There Any Surprises on the Horizon?
City’s scouting network is always active, and players like Carlos Baleba and Adam Wharton are being watched.
Baleba, a midfielder at Brighton, has impressed City scouts, although negotiations with Brighton could be challenging.
Similarly, Wharton, currently at Crystal Palace, has caught the attention of top clubs, including Real Madrid.
However, these players may not be top priorities, especially given the £50 million fee paid for Gonzalez from Porto.
What About the Loan Players?
Several players are returning from loan spells, and City’s plans for them are still up in the air.
Callum Doyle, Juma Bah, and Maximo Perrone all have uncertain futures, but they will likely be given time to prove themselves.
While players like Vitor Reis and Claudio Echeverri are still developing, City could integrate them into the first team in the near future.
Doyle, however, is seeking a permanent move away from the club after several loan spells.
As Manchester City continues to prepare for the summer transfer window, the club’s plans remain fluid, with key decisions still to be made regarding incoming and outgoing players.
One thing is clear: the next few months will be crucial in shaping the team’s future.