Image Credits: Imago Images
Manchester City are heading into a new era ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Pep Guardiola’s departure has forced City into a reset, with Enzo Maresca confirmed as the club’s new manager last week.
The change in the dugout has been matched by an aggressive transfer policy, headlined by the record-breaking capture of England midfielder Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest.chosun+2
City have shelled out a staggering £116 million for Anderson, making the 23-year-old the most expensive British player in history and the costliest signing in the club’s history, eclipsing the Jack Grealish deal.
While City invests heavily in the first team, Liverpool is targeting the next wave of talent – and Xavier Parker is firmly in their sights.
It was reported last month that the teenage Manchester City midfielder was in direct talks to join Liverpool, with negotiations advancing as the Reds push to bring him to Anfield.
City, however, are fighting hard to keep Parker.
The Secret Scout has revealed that the champions have put a record first professional contract on the table for the highly-rated academy star in a bid to convince him to stay:
“Manchester City pushing hard to keep Xavier Parker. This week Manchester City have offered what is understood to be a record first professional contract for an academy player as they bid to retain the highly-rated talent,” it’s reported.
“Liverpool have presented their vision + pathway. As shown with recent signings. City determined not to lose him.”
Parker first made his name at West Ham United, breaking into their Under-18s while still younger than most of his teammates and attracting interest from several leading Premier League clubs.
Manchester City acted quickly in 2024, securing him for their academy when he was just 14 years old.
Since then he has maintained a steep upward trajectory, playing in the Under-18 Premier League and FA Youth Cup before stepping up to City’s Under-19s in the UEFA Youth League.
He scored against Liverpool’s Under-18s in March, netting the third goal in a 3-0 win for City, and also appeared in the side that lifted the latest FA Youth Cup, featuring in the 2-1 victory over Manchester United in the final on May 14.
🚨 Manchester City pushing hard to keep Xavier Parker. This week #MCFC have offered what is understood to be a record first professional contract for an academy player as they bid to retain the highly-rated talent.
Liverpool have presented their vision + pathway. As shown with… pic.twitter.com/MNbqqq28z5
— TheSecretScout (@TheSecretScout_) July 3, 2026