Maresca eyes a double raid on Chelsea
Enzo Maresca is looking at two of his former Chelsea players. Manchester City's interest in Enzo Fernandez and Malo Gusto remains active, though neither deal is advanced right now (2). Maresca knows both inside out from his time at Stamford Bridge. Fernandez would address a midfield that needs fresh legs. Gusto offers depth at right-back. Elliot Anderson has also been mentioned in connection with City's midfield rebuild (2). Nothing is imminent, but the links are real.
Rodri's Madrid move faces competition
Real Madrid remain the best-placed club to sign Rodri, but two other European heavyweights have now entered the race (1). That complicates things for Madrid, and potentially for City too. If Rodri wants Spain and Madrid drag their feet, those other clubs could change the equation. Rodri dreams of returning to La Liga, though Madrid's interest so far has been described as minimal (1). His contract still has time, so City hold the cards for now.
Community Shield set for August 16
Arsenal will face Manchester City in the Community Shield on August 16 (3). It's the final pre-season test for both sides and a shot at early silverware. Erling Haaland, Leandro Trossard, and Gabriel Martinelli are among the names already being discussed for that fixture (3). Maresca gets his first competitive-like taste of English football's curtain-raiser against the team that pushed City closest in recent years.
Jack Harrison heads back to MLS
Former City academy player Jack Harrison has signed with New England Revolution, returning to MLS after leaving Leeds United (4). Harrison came through the NYCFC pipeline and was on City's books before making his name at Leeds. "As I considered my options, the decision to return to MLS and join the Revolution was the one that was most aligned with me," Harrison said (4).
Fan reactions
City fans woke up to good news on Monday: Josko Gvardiol is reportedly signing his contract extension today and completing media duties ahead of an official announcement. The Sam Lee report has the fanbase buzzing. There is also chatter about Chelsea winger Pedro Neto being linked with City, Liverpool, and Saudi clubs, with Chelsea unwilling to sell cheap. Meanwhile, Ibrahim Mbaye of PSG has drawn interest from City and at least five other clubs, with his club valuing the young talent at over €50m. Read more on r/MCFC
