Man City’s Quiet January Transfer Window: Updates on Savio, Neto, and Kimmich
Manchester City’s January transfer window was relatively quiet, as expected. The club rarely makes significant moves during this time of year, with their last impactful signing being Aymeric Laporte in 2018. However, they have plans to be active in the summer and are looking to strengthen their squad.
Financial constraints have forced City to sell Cole Palmer to Chelsea instead of loaning him out, but they still have funds available for transfers. However, any potential arrivals may depend on players leaving the club. It’s a delicate balance for City, but they are determined to reinforce their squad.
In terms of departures, City loaned out Kalvin Phillips to West Ham United. This move allows the England international to regain his form and showcase his abilities in an upwardly mobile side. Sergio Gomez’s potential departure did not materialize, possibly due to Valentin Barco moving to Brighton instead of City.
While City did make a purchase in January, bringing in Claudio Echeverri from River Plate, the 18-year-old was immediately loaned back for the rest of 2024. He is not expected to have an immediate impact on the first team.
Pep Guardiola, City’s manager, is not concerned about the departure of Phillips as he was never considered a first-team option. There was no urgent need to replace him, and it would have been challenging to find a reliable holding midfielder in January. Guardiola prefers Rodri to play the majority of games and does not want a top-class holding player who would be unhappy on the bench.
City’s priority for the summer transfer window will be finding a midfielder who can play both as an attacking midfielder and a holding midfielder. Declan Rice and Ilkay Gundogan are examples of the type of player they would pay top dollar for. However, these players are scarce in the January market.
A new full-back might also be on City’s agenda, although Guardiola has been content with their current approach. The possibility of signing a winger exists, but Guardiola has proven to find solutions even with a small squad. City would prefer versatile players who can play in multiple positions.
Looking ahead to the summer, City is exploring the signing of Girona winger Savio. The 19-year-old plays for City’s sister club and has expressed his desire to make the move. Pedro Neto from Wolves is another player of interest. City sources have downplayed rumors of a move for Joshua Kimmich in January, but a summer transfer is a possibility.
Guardiola typically avoids signing players from his former clubs, but if they express a desire to leave, like Lionel Messi in 2020, he may consider it. Bernardo Silva’s departure is also a possibility, as he has shown interest in leaving for a new challenge. His contract contains a release clause, making it easier for him to secure a move.
In terms of departures, Bernardo Silva and Scott Carson are the most likely candidates. Silva’s potential departure would increase the need for a midfielder or a winger. Carson, although rarely playing, is valued for his presence in the dressing room and may be kept around for another year.
Overall, Manchester City’s January transfer window was relatively quiet, but they have plans to strengthen their squad in the summer. The focus will be on finding a versatile midfielder and potentially a new full-back or winger. The club is exploring signings such as Savio and Neto and may consider a move for Kimmich. Departures, including Bernardo Silva, may also affect their transfer plans.