Manchester City's top player's departure appears imminent after a substantial monetary proposal, according to a recent report.
In a significant turn of events, Turkish powerhouse Galatasaray are reportedly on the brink of signing Manchester City's Brazilian goalkeeper Ederson, with a transfer fee and salary agreement believed to be close to finalisation [1]. The player, who has been with City since 2017, has shown a strong willingness to join Galatasaray and is said to be impressed by the club's project [2].
The potential deal comes amidst interest from Saudi Pro League clubs Al Ittihad and Al Nassr, who are prepared to offer a lucrative two-year contract worth a total of €25 million, which could pose a financial challenge for both Ederson and Galatasaray [3]. This added competition adds a layer of uncertainty to the transfer saga, but Galatasaray currently appear to be the frontrunners [3].
If the move to Galatasaray materialises, it would leave Manchester City in need of a new first-choice goalkeeper for the first time in eight years. Backup Stefan Ortega Moreno is also out of contract soon and seeking a starting role elsewhere, further complicating City's goalkeeping options [1]. The club has been linked with FC Porto's Diogo Costa as a potential replacement, but no deal appears imminent yet [1].
The coming days are described as crucial, as finalising personal terms and the transfer fee could see Ederson leave Manchester City for Istanbul, where he could potentially compete for Champions League football [1]. The departure of Ederson could lead to a change in Manchester City's playing style, as his unique passing ability from the back has been a defining aspect of Pep Guardiola's tactics at the club [1].
Ederson's current market value is €20 million, according to Transfermarkt. The goalkeeper, who is ranked at no.8 in the list of the best Premier League goalkeepers of all time on our website, has come under scrutiny for his shot-stopping ability in recent seasons [1].
Meanwhile, Manchester City have been dealing with a challenging 2022-2023 season, with disappointing results in the Champions League, Carabao Cup, Club World Cup, FA Cup, and Premier League. The departure of Kevin De Bruyne marked a significant step away from creativity in the middle of the park for the team. However, the club has recently signed Tijani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki to refresh the squad [4].
As the transfer window progresses, the future of Ederson remains uncertain, with both his preference of next club and Manchester City's willingness to part with him yet to be determined. The potential move could have far-reaching implications for both clubs, particularly in terms of playing style and team dynamics.
The potential move of Ederson to Galatasaray from Manchester City could see a shift in European leagues, particularly as he is reportedly impressed by the Turkish club's project. Meanwhile, Saudi Pro League clubs Al Ittihad and Al Nassr are offering a lucrative deal worth €25 million, potentially posing a financial challenge for Galatasaray and complicating the transfer saga.
