Manchester City are reportedly targeting five midfielders for potential exits before the end of the summer transfer window, as Pep Guardiola and sporting director Hugo Viana look to streamline an overcrowded squad following significant summer signings.
Guardiola’s Midfield Clean-Up: City Eye Kalvin Phillips, Grealish, McAtee Departures
City have already boosted their midfield with the arrivals of Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki, but with senior players returning and competition intensifying, the club are looking to rebalance the group via departures and loan deals.
Kalvin Phillips, Jack Grealish, and James McAtee are the most prominent names expected to leave, with Nico Gonzalez and Ilkay Gundogan potentially following suit under the right circumstances, according to the Manchester Evening News reporter Tyrone Marshall.
Kalvin Phillips is firmly out of Guardiola’s plans, having made just 31 total appearances since joining from Leeds in 2022.
A season-long loan to Ipswich failed to revive his campaign, and personal ambitions of regular Premier League football are likely to drive a permanent exit this summer.
Jack Grealish, who remains under contract, is attracting interest from Premier League and Serie A clubs, though high wages suggest that a season-long loan is the most viable option.
Meanwhile, James McAtee, after impressive loan performances at Sheffield United, is assessing his path between England and overseas. Clubs like Nottingham Forest and West Ham are considering offers, potentially with a buy-back clause included.
Nico González is expected to report back for pre-season with no transfer imminent, but his long-term status remains uncertain and could shift depending on his own wishes.
Finally, Ilkay Gundogan, despite triggering a contract extension earlier this summer, remains linked to a return to Turkey with Galatasaray. City have indicated they would not block a move if it aligns with his personal goals.
With five weeks remaining before the transfer window closes, Manchester City are preparing to accelerate their outgoings, aiming to tidy their midfield and create room for emerging talents and tactical flexibility ahead of a demanding four-competition season.
