As the 2025/26 Premier League season looms, Manchester City are making waves in the transfer market, orchestrating a dramatic overhaul of their attacking lineup. The reigning champions, eager to reclaim the title lost to Liverpool last season, are navigating a flurry of high-profile departures and ambitious pursuits. At the heart of this transfer storm are the confirmed loan exit of Jack Grealish to Everton, a potential £43 million move for winger Savinho to Tottenham Hotspur, and a staggering £87 million bid for Real Madrid’s star forward Rodrygo Goes. These moves signal Pep Guardiola’s intent to reshape his squad into a leaner, more dynamic force.
Jack Grealish, the 29-year-old England international, is set to embark on a new chapter with Everton on a season-long loan, a deal that includes a £50 million option to buy next summer. The former Aston Villa captain, who joined City for a British-record £100 million in 2021, has struggled to maintain a regular starting role under Guardiola. Despite contributing to City’s historic 2022/23 Treble, Grealish’s playing time dwindled, with only seven Premier League starts last season. “I was heartbroken,” Grealish said last summer, reflecting on his exclusion from England’s 2024 European Championship squad. His move to Everton, where he’s admired by manager David Moyes, offers a chance to rediscover the flair that made him a fan favorite. With a medical imminent, Grealish is poised to debut at Everton’s new Hill Dickinson Stadium against Leeds on August 18, aiming to reignite his career and catch the eye of England boss Thomas Tuchel ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Meanwhile, Manchester City are in advanced talks with Tottenham over the transfer of 21-year-old Brazilian winger Savinho. The versatile attacker, who joined City from sister club Troyes in 2024, impressed during a loan spell at Girona, scoring nine La Liga goals in 2023/24. However, his debut Premier League season was less prolific, with just one goal despite frequent attempts on goal. Tottenham’s interest, sparked by their need for attacking reinforcements following James Maddison’s injury, has led to negotiations, with City reportedly open to a £43 million deal. “The player is open to the move,” transfer expert Fabrizio Romano noted, highlighting Savinho’s potential fit at Spurs, where his arrival could allow Mohammed Kudus to shift into a central role. City’s willingness to let Savinho go reflects Guardiola’s strategy to streamline his squad, having already signed over £300 million in new talent this summer, including Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Ait-Nouri, and Rayan Cherki.
The most audacious move in City’s transfer saga is their reported £87 million bid for Real Madrid’s Rodrygo Goes. Described as a “dream target” for Guardiola, the 24-year-old Brazilian forward is seen as the perfect replacement for Grealish and Savinho. With a proposed fee of €80 million fixed and €20 million in variables, City are positioning themselves to outmaneuver rivals like Arsenal, who are also eyeing Rodrygo on a loan basis. “Guardiola is a huge admirer,” Romano revealed, emphasizing the manager’s belief that Rodrygo’s pace, versatility, and clinical finishing align perfectly with City’s attacking philosophy. Real Madrid, while open to letting Rodrygo leave if he desires, are holding firm on their valuation, setting the stage for intense negotiations.
These moves come as City aim to trim their squad after a trophyless 2024/25 season, with high-profile exits like Kevin De Bruyne and Kyle Walker already confirmed. The potential sales of Grealish and Savinho, alongside the pursuit of Rodrygo, underscore Guardiola’s calculated approach to balancing financial and tactical needs. Everton’s acquisition of Grealish, despite competition from Napoli, marks a coup for the Toffees, who have faced frustration in the market after failed bids for Southampton’s Tyler Dibling and Aston Villa’s John McGinn. For Tottenham, securing Savinho could bolster their attacking options, while City’s bold bid for Rodrygo signals their ambition to remain a dominant force in the Premier League.
As the transfer window nears its climax, Manchester City’s strategic reshuffle promises to reshape their squad for the challenges ahead. With Grealish seeking redemption, Savinho eyeing a new challenge, and Rodrygo potentially joining the Etihad, the Citizens are poised for a thrilling season that could redefine their attacking identity.
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