When the January transfer window opens, three Man City players can now discuss contracts with other teams because they are in the last 6 months of their contracts.
January 1 signaled that the door for the winter transfer window officially opened and all attention focused on who could join Man City to help the defending Premier League champions escape their injury crisis.
Coach Pep Guardiola signed a new contract to begin the rebuilding process in the next two years and help Man City continue to win the championship when he leaves. The key factor in his success over the past nine years has been the club’s legendary team, including Kevin De Bruyne, who was at the Etihad Stadium before the Spanish strategist arrived.
However, De Bruyne is about to run out of contract and he told reporters this week that negotiations over a new deal with Man City have not yet begun. The Belgian star remained calm and said in November that he wanted to get over his injury problems before discussing his future.
But waiting until the new year means De Bruyne can now also formally discuss terms with other clubs over a free summer transfer. In 2024, De Bruyne admitted he would be interested in an attractive offer from Saudi Arabia if it was enough to support his family for life, although he denied having spoken to any representatives from Saudi Arabia. Pro League about the future.
Also about to end his contract like De Bruyne is Ilkay Gundogan, who returned last year after 12 months at Barca. The former Germany international’s form has been affected by over-playing amid Man City’s injury crisis, and there will be a decision in the summer on whether to activate an extra year on his contract. .
Gundogan’s form, fitness and overall health in the Man City midfield will greatly affect the ability to negotiate an extension. Like De Bruyne, Gundogan could theoretically explore other contract options until Man City activates the one-year extension clause.
Number 3 goalkeeper Scott Carson is the last player whose contract expires in the summer. Man City tends to let this veteran complete his contract before making any decision on an extension at the end of the season. Guardiola values Carson’s role in the dressing room, but it may soon be time to come up with an alternative arrangement as the goalkeeper turns 40 at the start of next season.