Ilkay Gundogan is out of contract in 2023 and may not sign a new deal if he isn’t given assurances over playing time next season, so there’s a chance he could leave. Bernardo Silva also has an uncertain future as he’s open to joining Barcelona and may be granted a departure if his asking price is met.
That would leave Pep Guardiola with a hole in midfield, so a ball-playing central midfielder would be required. Kalvin Phillips is a target from Leeds United, but he’s Fernandinho’s replacement. Daniel Murphy of Manchester Evening News says Manchester City need a cultured deep-lying playmaker who would fit Guardiola’s philosophy.
Frenkie De Jong could be sold this summer according to reports in Spain, so he’d be a good option. The 25-year-old had a hand in six goals from 32 La Liga games this season, completing 91.3% of his passes, creating 43 chances, having 51/60 successful dribbles, being dribbled past just 11 times and averaging a tackle (35) or interception (20) every 45 minutes.
Manchester United are leading the race for De Jong’s signature, but they’re trying to lower Barcelona’s asking price to €60m (£60.1m). It may take in excess of €70m (£51.5m) to bring the Dutch international to England, so City should hijack the deal while it’s in limbo. He’s been a player on their radar for some time.
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