As they look to welcome their next addition following James Trafford, Manchester City are now reportedly eyeing a cut-price move to sign a midfield star who Pep Guardiola loves.
Man City closing in on Trafford
For much of the summer, Trafford looked Newcastle United’s to lose. The Magpies, whilst they missed out on other targets, looked likely to secure the goalkeeper’s signature. And then Manchester City came calling to deal those at St James’ Park even more frustration. Now, the Citizens are the ones in pole position and have reportedly agreed a deal worth £27m to welcome Trafford back to the Etihad.
Re-signing for the club for the first time since swapping Manchester for Burnley in 2023, Trafford will hope to take hold of the No.1 shirt once and for all under Guardiola.
Given that Ederson’s Man City future is far from a guarantee these days amid links to the likes of Galatasaray, Trafford’s ambition is certainly a realistic one. The 22-year-old is one of the most talented young shot-stoppers in the Premier League and could thrive when handed the main responsibility between the sticks for Guardiola.
|
League stats 24/25 (via FBref) |
Trafford |
Ederson |
|---|---|---|
|
Starts |
45 |
26 |
|
Save Percentage |
84.5% |
69.2% |
|
Pass Completion Rate |
73.3% |
87.9% |
|
Saves P90 |
1.89 |
2.05 |
Although the England international still has a way to go to match Ederson’s ability on the ball, as do most goalkeepers, he will arguably provide City with a more reliable shot-stopper when looking at save percentage last season.
Meanwhile, with Trafford on his way, Man City have now reportedly shifted their focus towards another midfield reinforcement who Guardiola is a huge fan of.
Man City eyeing half-price Paqueta swoop
According to journalist Graeme Bailey, Man City are now eyeing a half-price £40m move to sign Lucas Paqueta amid reports that the Brazilian is set to be cleared of all betting charges.
“West Ham are delighted but not surprised that Lucas Paqueta has been cleared. Sources have confirmed to me they were informed of the decision on Friday evening, as is the practice ahead of an official confirmation.
“Paqueta himself has been working hard in pre-season, but now, we again visit the question of where he is going to play as he is now focused on being a part of Carlo Ancelotti’s World Cup squad.
“I am told that Manchester City remain huge admirers of the player and do not rule them out coming back in, although the £80 million fee they previously agreed is likely to be more than halved if they do return.”
A player who Guardiola reportedly loves and one who former West Ham United boss David Moyes dubbed “incredible”, Paqueta could yet receive the chance to get back on track and finally secure the biggest move of his career courtesy of Man City.
