“We’re prepared to offload Kelvin Phillips and two additional players to generate funds for a goal-scoring sensation who has outperformed Lionel Messi,” stated the Manchester City owner, indicating readiness to sell four players to finance the acquisition. Liverpool has abandoned the pursuit of the £160 million-rated star.

Manchester City has been advised to let go of two players in the upcoming January transfer window. While the winter period typically sees limited activity for the team, Maximo Perrone’s recent acquisition turned out to be a brief stint as he quickly went out on loan to Las Palmas.

City’s significant midseason signings, like Aymeric Laporte in January 2019, have notably impacted their success, yet the club often prefers avoiding the market due to cost inefficiency, though it remains a possibility.

Although City boasts a relatively smaller squad compared to other Premier League teams, the possibility of departures exists, and fans have voiced their desire to see two players leave. A survey conducted by MEN Sport among supporters gauged the preference for each player’s retention or sale during the January window.

Kalvin Phillips emerged at the bottom of the list, with a mere 11.7 percent of fans advocating for his stay. Phillips has struggled to secure significant playing time since his arrival from Leeds United, leading him to contemplate a move for more regular action, especially in pursuit of a place in England’s Euro 2024 squad.

Sergio Gomez is the other player subject to potential sale, garnering only 46% support. Although the teenager has shown promise in sporadic appearances on the flank, a starting position seems improbable in the near future. Zack Steffen, City’s backup goalkeeper, narrowly surpassed the threshold for retention with 61.8 percent of the vote.