Manchester City are gearing up for a defining summer as the post-Pep Guardiola era begins to take shape at the Etihad Stadium. Although recent reports have linked the Premier League champions with a high-profile pursuit of Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez, sources within the club’s recruitment structure suggest a different player has emerged as their top target for the midfield rebuild.

City’s main midfield target identified

As the club prepares for life after Guardiola, City’s recruitment department has pinpointed its leading transfer objective for the upcoming window. Despite several prominent names being associated with the club, Elliot Anderson is understood to be at the top of City’s shortlist. The club is reportedly pushing to finalise the deal before the World Cup begins, emphasizing their determination to conclude key business early. This urgency reflects City’s plan to reinforce the midfield swiftly, allowing more time to focus on other squad areas.

Simon Bajkowski of the Manchester Evening News commented, “The major one that won’t surprise anyone is Elliot Anderson. Not only is he City’s No.1 priority, but the club wants the deal completed before the World Cup — which is approaching fast. It’s not disastrous if it doesn’t happen by then, but City are working hard to get it done so they can turn attention to other positions needing reinforcement.”

Enzo Fernandez situation and potential midfield exits

Although speculation has connected Fernandez with a potential move to the Etihad as an alternative option, City insiders have dismissed those links. The midfield remains an area of uncertainty this summer, with several established names possibly leaving. While Sandro Tonali continues to be monitored, Enzo Fernandez is not currently on the club’s radar.

Bajkowski added, “There are other midfielders being considered, like Sandro Tonali, though the message from inside the club this week is that Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez is not a target. Signing a second midfielder isn’t essential, but with uncertainty surrounding the futures of Rodri, Nico Gonzalez, and Mateo Kovacic, there are many moving parts to keep an eye on.”

Defensive duo reflecting on their next steps

The changes following Guardiola’s departure have also led some senior defenders to reconsider their futures. Reports indicate that both Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias are assessing their situations after the managerial shift and recent injury concerns. Dias, viewed as a potential captain, has faced reduced playing time and seen close friend Bernardo Silva leave, while Gvardiol is recovering from a leg fracture sustained in January after a demanding run of games.

City are keen to retain their defensive anchors but remain consistent with their long-standing stance on unsettled players. Bajkowski explained, “City want to keep both defenders, but as always, they are open to offers if a player wishes to leave. However, it would take extremely significant bids for either one to move on.”

The Savinho question

The future of Savinho is another topic of internal debate as City balance his long-term promise against his current market value. The Brazilian winger has earned strong backing from several within the club who believe he could become a star, but the arrival of manager Enzo Maresca and sporting director Hugo Viana could influence a decision towards a sale. Bajkowski noted, “The same logic applies as with any player — weighing how valuable he is and could become at City compared to the financial benefit of selling and replacing him.”