The Athletic released the 6th issue of the "Transfer Deal Briefing" for the 2026 summer transfer window, discussing Arsenal's situation.

What happened this week?

Elliott-Anderson’s move to Man City has been announced, but as he is still participating in the World Cup, both clubs have only released brief statements confirming that an agreement has been reached, with a more complete announcement expected once he arrives in Manchester.

Man City have re-signed former academy goalkeeper Pierce Charles, who moved to Sheffield Wednesday in 2022. If Trafford leaves, Pierce Charles could become Man City's second-choice goalkeeper, with several top clubs currently interested in him.

Man City have also beaten Arsenal to the signing of 16-year-old Jeremy Munga from Leicester City. Arsenal initially had an advantage in the race for Munga, but Man City made a last-minute move, agreeing to pay £10 million upfront, plus £2.5 million in add-ons.

In addition, there is a strange development: young goalkeeper Oli Watmuff has joined Stockport County on loan, but he will be recalled to Man City in early August to participate in the pre-season tour in Hong Kong and South Korea.

As Trafford will miss this tour due to representing England in the World Cup, Man City urgently needs to reinforce their goalkeeper position. It is expected that Watmuff will rejoin Stockport County on loan after returning to England.

Does Man City believe Munga is already first-team quality?

Despite Munga's transfer fee of up to £10 million, he does not appear to be truly part of the first team at the moment. Man City clearly believes Munga is exceptionally talented and has the potential to become a star.

He could make some first-team appearances in domestic cup competitions, but it would be surprising if he became a regular starter. If Man City sell 10 players this summer, it is unlikely they will find replacements for all of them.

If they cannot fill the vacancies, they will choose to promote young players. Man City plan to have ample squad depth for the new season, but if an injury crisis occurs, Munga could benefit. For now, this should be the highest expectation he can realistically achieve.

Which positions/players are they looking at?

Man City are very interested in Moroccan international Ayub Bouaddi, but they are still considering how to proceed with the deal. Possible options include signing him and then loaning him back to Lille, or signing him directly, provided they can find a suitable position for him, such as right-back.

They greatly admire Gusto, but the 23-year-old's transfer fee is simply too high, putting off Man City. Unless there are major changes, Man City will have to look for other targets, though there are not many suitable alternatives.

Which players could leave?

B. Silva and Stones have left, Aké has gone to Fenerbahçe, and Kovacic is also considered likely to depart. Trafford has no shortage of suitors, while Real Madrid has shown interest in Ruben Dias.

Nico Gonzalez and Marmoush, two players who joined in January 2025, may also leave, while Reijnders' future is also in doubt, though Maresca's arrival could change all of that.

Sávio is another player who might leave, which would take the number of departures to 10, while Kalvin Phillips and Grealish could also be sold if a suitable club comes along, although direct replacements would not be needed.

Rodri has not yet renewed his contract, and it is quite possible he ultimately will not. His options this summer appear to be quite limited. Although Man City are desperate to keep him, they are also aware that the possibility of Rodri leaving cannot be entirely ruled out.

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