Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent
Fri 30 May 2025 20:00, UK
Jack Grealish and James McAtee are expected to leave as part of Pep Guardiola’s promised Man City clear out, sources have told Football Insider.
The Catalan boss has made it clear that a number of players will leave the Etihad Stadium this summer ahead of a squad reshuffle – with Guardiola preferring to work with a smaller squad.
Grealish, 29, is expected to be one of the first through the exit door over the coming weeks, with Newcastle United emerging as a possible destination as the winger looks to make an impression on England boss Thomas Tuchel before next year’s World Cup.
Meanwhile, attacking midfielder McAtee, 22, could also be on the move in a transfer that would represent pure profit for City under Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
McAtee remains on Leverkusen’s radar
He has attracted the attention of a number of top-flight clubs in England as well as Bayer Leverkusen, who approached City with a loan-to-buy offer for him in January.
Guardiola has suggested he could potentially quit his role if City’s squad size isn’t reduced for next season – but the FA Cup finalists are still expected to spend big money during the upcoming summer transfer window.
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Football Insider revealed earlier this month (18 May) that the City board are preparing to spend around £200million in a huge signing spree when the window opens next month.
Season Appearances (Premier League only) Goals
2021-22 26 3
2022-23 28 5
2023-24 20 3
2024-25 20 1
Grealish’s Premier League record with Man City
The club will save money on Kevin De Bruyne’s wages when his free transfer exit is confirmed, and the Club World Cup in June is also set to provide a well-timed financial boost.
The aim to spend big comes after an outlay of around £180million in January, when Omar Marmoush, Nico Gonzalez, Vitor Reis and Abdukodir Khusanov arrived.
Lyon’s Rayan Cherki is a top target for Man City. (Credit: Imago)
Cherki set to make City decision
One potential arrival is Lyon attacker Rayan Cherki, who is expected to leave France this summer via a release clause of around £20million.
However, Cherki is aware he will likely be a squad player should he sign for Guardiola’s side, and his decision will be one that best serves his career long term.
The 21-year-old will look for reassurances that he will get sufficient game time if he commits to making the move to the Etihad Stadium.
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