Manchester City’s January transfer plans may depend less on who arrives and more on who leaves. The Citizens are weighing up a potential clear-out midway through the season.
Pep Guardiola’s side moved within two points of Premier League leaders Arsenal after a comfortable 3-0 win over Crystal Palace this weekend.
But despite remaining firmly in the title race, significant spending in January is only possible after securing departures.
Manchester City are eyeing a move for Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton. They have already sent scouts to monitor his progress.
However, Palace are blocking the sale of the England international mid-season. They see him as a key long-term asset. Attention has instead turned towards potential exits.
According to former Manchester City financial adviser Stefan Borson, the club could consider selling Savinho, Rico Lewis, and Oscar Bobb if the right offers arrive.
All three have struggled to cement regular roles even though Guardiola has given them a good amount of opportunities this season.
Savinho was close to joining Tottenham in the summer, while Nottingham Forest previously showed interest in Lewis. Bobb has also attracted attention across Europe.
Speaking to Football Insider, Borson said City would need to sell before making any major January additions.
He also added that the Citizens may not sanction multiple high-cost deals during the winter window.
Manchester City will host Brentford in the Carabao Cup quarter-final in midweek. And over the weekend, they will host West Ham United in the Premier League.
These two games will offer Guardiola another opportunity to assess both his squad depth and future priorities as the January transfer window approaches.
🚨 Manchester City could look to offload Savinho, Rico Lewis and Oscar Bobb in January to fund more new signings.
(Source: Football Insider) pic.twitter.com/okKE3tHxAO
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) December 14, 2025
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