Manchester City’s focus will be on winning the Premier League for a sixth consecutive season. To achieve this, they plan to strengthen their roster during the upcoming transfer window.
This summer could see both arrivals and departures, with several names already linked to the team. The transfer market officially opens on June 14, and clubs worldwide will be vying for the best players.
Unsurprisingly, City is a major topic in the media. Here are some recent updates with our insights included.
De Bruyne’s Contract Status:
According to the Times, Kevin De Bruyne is “open” to extending his contract at City but has attracted interest from teams in Saudi Arabia this summer.
De Bruyne has been instrumental in City’s recent success under Pep Guardiola. His current contract expires at the end of next season.
Despite starting only 15 Premier League matches this season due to a hamstring issue, he managed to contribute 10 assists and 4 goals.
According to MEN Sport, De Bruyne aims to overcome his injury problems next season, posing a challenge for teams trying to dethrone City.
The player reportedly lacks interest in joining the Saudi Pro League, which is good news for City. Since joining in 2015, De Bruyne has made a significant impact and seems set to continue for at least another year.
Kalvin Phillips Situation:
City has lost a potential suitor for Kalvin Phillips following Leeds United’s failure to secure promotion back to the Premier League.
Leeds, one of the teams linked to Phillips, failed to achieve promotion after a decisive goal by Adam Armstrong against Southampton at Wembley Stadium on Sunday. This result also led to Taylor Harwood-Bellis’s permanent move to the Saints.
According to the Mirror, Leeds’ inability to get promoted means they won’t be able to re-sign Phillips from City this summer.
MEN Sport suggests Phillips should move on this summer to revive his career. West Ham is unlikely to pursue a permanent deal after his poor loan spell in the second half of the season.
A return to Leeds could have benefited all parties, as his performances there earned him an England call-up and prompted City’s interest. However, with that option off the table, the search for a suitable club continues.
Phillips needs regular playing time to develop into the player City envisioned. Whether that opportunity lies in the Premier League or elsewhere remains to be seen.
