It's looking set to be a busier summer than expected for Manchester City.
All the champagne sprayed in City's wild celebrations has only just dried following their treble triumph but football doesn't treat those who linger on their achievements kindly. Plans have already turned to the forthcoming campaign and more change is coming at the Etihad.
Ilkay Gundogan bade an emotional farewell to the club after seven years on Monday as he's off to join Barcelona on a free upon the expiration of his contract. Others may follow him out of the door before the transfer window closes.
Aymeric Laporte and Joao Cancelo are both expected to leave after growing frustrated with their lack of playing time over the past year. Cancelo's time at the club especially appears over after a sudden breakdown in his relationship with Pep Guardiola led to a loan departure in January. Bayern Munich won't be making the move permanent so as it stands the full-back will be reporting for pre-season training unless a new club is found.
ALSO READ: 'Always a Blue' - Ilkay Gundogan sends emotional farewell message to Man City fans after sealing Barcelona transfer
Riyad Mahrez and Kyle Walker both played essential roles in the Blues' success but did find their minutes limited as well. Mahrez didn't play in either the FA Cup final or the Champions League final while Walker admitted he was disappointed not to start in Istanbul.
Finally, there always remains a risk that Bernardo Silva could leave. The Portuguese has been eager to return closer to home for years but no suitable offer has ever been made for him. Paris Saint-Germain are said to be interested and there are also reports that teams from Saudi Arabia could make a move.
City themselves are closing
Read more on manchestereveningnews.co.uk
manchestereveningnews.co.uk
