Redaction Simon Brett with Freddie Pye
Published on 2024-07-24 17:00:00
Manchester City had contingency plans in place for the potential departure of Kevin De Bruyne this summer, with rumors linking him to a move to Saudi Arabia. However, Pep Guardiola has confirmed that De Bruyne will not be transferred during the current transfer window, with contract talks with the Belgian scheduled for the following month. Behind the scenes, City have been preparing for the possibility of De Bruyne leaving and have identified RB Leipzig’s Dani Olmo as a potential replacement.
City officials have been actively searching for a replacement for De Bruyne, with Dani Olmo being considered as a standby option in case the Belgian star leaves the club. City rejected the chance to sign Olmo earlier this month at his £60 million release clause valuation and have also steered clear of Bruno Guimaraes’ £100 million clause at Newcastle United. However, City retains interest in Guimaraes and may look to sign him for around £85 million as a back-up option in defensive midfield.
Despite speculation about De Bruyne’s future, City is focused on ensuring they have a replacement lined up whenever the Belgian decides to leave the club. The club has been actively scouting the market for potential midfielders to fill that role, with Olmo and Guimaraes being considered as possible options. Guardiola’s confirmation that De Bruyne will not be transferred this summer provides stability for the team and allows them to focus on potential contract negotiations with their star player.
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