Manchester City is gearing up to extend their reign as Premier League champions into a sixth consecutive year by reinforcing their squad during the upcoming transfer window.
With the transfer market officially opening on June 14, City will likely see both incoming and outgoing transfers as they compete with other top teams for the best available talent.
One major point of discussion is the contractual situation of Kevin De Bruyne. Despite interest from Saudi Arabian clubs, the Times reports that De Bruyne is open to extending his current contract with Manchester City.
Under Pep Guardiola, De Bruyne has been instrumental in City’s dominance in recent seasons. Although his current contract is set to expire at the end of next season, the midfielder seems inclined to stay at the Etihad Stadium for a bit longer.
De Bruyne’s season was marred by a hamstring injury that limited him to just 15 Premier League starts. Nevertheless, he managed to contribute four goals and ten assists. As he aims to leave his injury troubles behind,
De Bruyne’s continued presence will be crucial for City as they seek to fend off challengers. His reluctance to move to the Saudi Pro League is good news for City, as his impact since joining in 2015 has been significant.
On the other hand, City faces uncertainty with Kalvin Phillips. The club has lost a potential suitor for Phillips following Leeds United’s failure to secure promotion back to the Premier League.
Leeds was one of the clubs linked with Phillips, but their chances of re-signing him were dashed by their loss to Southampton in the promotion play-off final. This result also influenced City’s transfer plans in other ways, including the permanent move of Taylor Harwood-Bellis to the Saints.
Phillips, who had a lackluster loan spell during the second half of the season, needs to find a club where he can play regularly and revive his career.
His performances at Leeds previously earned him a call-up to the England squad and attracted City’s attention. However, with Leeds no longer an option, Phillips must find a new club, either in the Premier League or abroad, where he can regain his form and make a significant impact.
The search for a suitable destination for Phillips continues. He requires a team that will offer him consistent playing time, enabling him to recover the form that made City interested in him in the first place.
As City navigates the summer transfer window, balancing the retention of key players like De Bruyne with the departure of others like Phillips will be crucial to their ongoing success.
