Talks held: Man City now move for teenager whose dad saw Aguero’s 93:20 goal live
Manchester City are reportedly in discussions to finalise the signing of a highly-rated 17-year-old prospect ahead of the summer transfer window, as Pep Guardiola’s side looks to inject fresh youth and energy into the squad.
City Planning Ahead for Summer Reinforcements
Even as the dust settles on a season that has seen moments of both brilliance and vulnerability, the reigning Premier League champions are already mapping out their summer transfer strategy. Key areas in the squad are being assessed, with possible reinforcements lined up to maintain the club’s domestic and European dominance.
One position under particular scrutiny is in goal. Ederson, who has been a pillar of reliability in recent years, endured what many are calling his most inconsistent season in a City shirt. This has sparked rumours of a potential shake-up between the sticks, with Real Madrid’s Andriy Lunin emerging as a prime candidate to step in. Reports suggest that City are preparing a bid in the region of £17 million for the Ukrainian shot-stopper, who has impressed when called upon at the Bernabéu.
The left-back position is also a topic of conversation. Benfica’s Álvaro Carreras, who once spent two seasons in Manchester United’s academy setup, is reportedly on City’s radar. Since making the move to Portugal, Carreras has matured into a dynamic full-back, catching the attention of several top clubs. His potential arrival could open the door for Josko Gvardiol to operate more regularly as a left-sided centre-back, adding flexibility and balance to Guardiola’s defensive unit.
In attack, City are believed to be weighing up the need for more depth to support their goal machine, Erling Haaland. Juventus striker Kenan Yildiz is said to be a player of interest. The 19-year-old has had a breakthrough campaign in Serie A, scoring six goals and providing two assists, while also finding the net in both the Champions League and domestic competitions. Valued at around £75 million, Yildiz represents a significant investment, but one that could pay dividends given his rapidly rising profile.
City Pushing for Signature of Teenage Attacking Sensation Jesse Derry
Alongside their interest in more established names, Manchester City are also continuing their tradition of snapping up elite young talent. According to a fresh report from The Boot Room, the club is currently in talks to secure the signature of Crystal Palace youngster Jesse Derry.
The 17-year-old forward has reportedly turned down a new contract offer from Palace, sparking a wave of interest from clubs across Europe. While City are thought to be among the frontrunners, they face stiff competition. Aston Villa are also in discussions, while European heavyweights such as Bayern Munich, RB Leipzig, Eintracht Frankfurt, Paris Saint-Germain, Monaco, Porto, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, Celtic, and Rangers have all expressed their interest.
Derry is considered one of the brightest young prospects in English football. His eye for goal and flair on the ball have seen him compared to Manchester City’s own Jack Grealish. His stats speak for themselves—20 goals in 27 matches for Palace’s Under-18s is an impressive return for a teenager still developing his game. On the international stage, he has represented England at three different youth levels, amassing 16 caps and scoring six goals.
There is a sentimental connection to the Etihad for the Derry family as well. Jesse’s father, Shaun Derry, was on the pitch for QPR during that unforgettable moment in 2012 when Sergio Aguero scored the last-gasp goal that handed City the Premier League title in one of the most dramatic finishes in football history.
Why City Could Be an Ideal Destination
Manchester City’s track record of nurturing young talent makes them an attractive option for any rising star. The development paths of Phil Foden and Rico Lewis are clear examples of how the club’s youth system can serve as a springboard into first-team football, even in a squad packed with world-class names.
While this season may not have lived up to the extraordinarily high standards Guardiola’s side have set in recent years, there is growing optimism that a refreshed squad—combined with the return of key players like Rodri—will see City bounce back with renewed vigour. For a young talent like Derry, the opportunity to learn from seasoned professionals, compete for trophies, and work under one of the greatest managers in football could prove irresistible.
If a deal is struck, Jesse Derry would join a long line of promising young players hoping to make their mark at the Etihad. And given his talent and attitude, there’s every chance he could be the next big name to emerge from Manchester City’s elite academy setup.
