Manchester City plans to take over £80m Manchester United target as club statement on player’s departure deleted

Pep Guardiola could still prove to be the driving force behind a stunning transfer of one of rivals Manchester United’s key summer targets.

Reports following last day’s media activity have highlighted the Manchester City manager’s admiration for one of the Premier League’s most outstanding centre-backs, despite the club having yet to make its first move in the market.

There were also twists and turns in the departures, with Barcelona quickly publishing a club statement on the future of Manchester City dropout Joao Cancelo at the weekend and then deleting it again. Further information on the matter has since been published.

Contract talks are the order of the day when it comes to the academy talents at the Etihad Campus and amidst the high level of interest, Fabrizio Romano gave an update on one of the club’s highly rated attacking talents.

Here is your daily and comprehensive summary of the latest Manchester City transfer news and information following the conclusion of day 17 of the ongoing summer market!

Arrivals

Pep Guardiola could dash Manchester United’s hopes of signing Everton’s £80m centre-back Jarrad BranthwaiteThe Manchester City manager is said to be impressed by his ability to play out from the back and his defensive qualities. Guardiola is reportedly considering a move. (The sun)

Bruno Guimarães remains a target for Manchester City this transfer window and there is a growing feeling among some at the club that an £85m fee could still seal a deal. (Tolmie’s hairstyle)

At Manchester City, there are people who “delve into the finances” of rival clubs, while those in charge at Etihad know where “bargains and opportunities can be found”. (Tolmie’s hairstyle)

Departures

Only Saudi Arabia offers Joao Cancelo “something concrete”. (Tolmie’s hairstyle)

Barcelona has deleted a club statement about his departure Joao Cancelo as they still hope to bring the Portuguese international back from Manchester City. The Barça management remain in constant contact with agent Jorge Mendes until there is clarity on their financial situation this summer. Ideally, they would loan the player out again. (Sam Marsden, Moises Llorens – ESPN)

Contract extensions

Manchester City is working on a new contract for Christian Dunbar-McDonaldNegotiations are underway over a new contract for the 16-year-old winger, with the Premier League champions keen to keep him at the club. (Fabrizio Romano)

Confirmed deals

Taylor Harwood-Bellis to Southampton (£20 million purchase commitment)

Stefan Ortega has signed a one-year contract extension with Manchester City until the end of the 2025/26 season.

Scott Carson has signed a one-year contract extension with Manchester City until the end of the 2024/2025 season.