Manchester City could turn to the likes of Kylian Mbappe if they want to avoid transfer fees with players whose contracts are due to run out in 2024
Pep Guardiola before Manchester City’s Premier League match with Liverpool at the Etihad
Kylian Mbappe leads a long list of out-of-contract superstars that could be on Manchester City’s radar in the 2024 summer window.
The Frenchman looks set to leave Paris Saint Germain for free next year after refusing offers to leave and deciding not to sign an extension. He leads a long list of stars who City may look to sign next summer, as the MEN explores below.
Kylian Mbappe (Paris Saint Germain)
It would feel very un-City to make a move for the French superstar but his arrival would certainly throw the cat amongst the pigeons. In many people’s eyes, Mbappe is the world’s best player and the European vultures will be circling with his PSG contract running out next summer.
While Mbappe is a sensation but PSG managers have not been able to make him press and work hard when his team do not have the ball. Such a work ethic is a non-negotiable under Guardiola and that could put the handbrakes on the likelihood of a transfer.
Nico Williams (Athletic Bilbao)
More in the traditional Guardiola type of signing, Williams could thrive in this new generation of City talent. It looks as though the club are moving towards players that like to run at opponents with pace and trickery and the 21-year-old fits that portfolio.
Like Jeremy Doku, who has hit the ground running after his summer move from Rennes, Williams can play on either flank and is waiting for that next big career move. He has one goal and 7 assists in 10 appearances for the La Liga outfit.
Mario Hermoso (Atletico Madrid)
City have a good record with Atletico Madrid signings. Sergio Aguero and Rodrigo Hernandez have both become legends at the Etihad after moving from the Spaniards.
28-year-old Hermoso is an experienced cog in Diego Simeone’s wheel and he is comfortable at playing out from the back. His ability to play at left-back alongside his primary position in the centre of defence is a skill that would be appreciated by Guardiola and his innovative back-three setup.