Pep Guardiola Rules Out Manchester City Star Transfer Exit

Pep Guardiola knows he has a big squad at Manchester City – but there are certain players he won’t consider losing in this summer window.

The big hitters at the Etihad, of course, won’t be going anywhere even if the money on the table were to be astronomical.

But there are others Guardiola does not want to part ways with including Galatasaray-bound Ederson who has had an opening bid from the Turkish giants now lodged.

Another player who has potential suitors in this marketplace is Rico Lewis who has just shy of 100 appearances for the Citizens in his debut against Bournemouth in August 2022.

Nottingham Forest bid £25million for Rico Lewis

Reports have emerged this summer that Premier League rivals Nottingham Forest have serious interest in defender Lewis and have already submitted an offer for the 20-year-old.

The reports suggest that a £25million deal was on the table from Forest with an extra £4.5m in add-ons being offered.

That was seemingly booted into touch by City who consider Lewis a serious talent and a player to build the team around in the future where defensive options are considered.

Now Guardiola has been asked about the terms being banded about regarding the player. And the Spanish head coach admitted he hopes to keep hold of the youngster.

He also revealed he has had a conversation with Lewis personally and feels somewhat reassured that the player also has no plans to leave the club just yet.

What Pep Guardiola said about Lewis’ future at Manchester City

Transcribed by transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, Guardiola when asked about Lewis said: “I think he’s going to stay, I think. He told me that.

“Today, I think he’s going to stay, but I don’t know what’s going to happen…”

Of course the open-endedness of Guardiola’s words have left it to interpretation and there has also been other interest in Lewis from other clubs in England’s top flight.

Caught Offside report that Tottenham Hotspur have also enquired about Lewis and his future at City as they consider a move for the young man who can be deployed at left-back or in defensive midfield.

Thomas Frank likes the player but, again, it depends on City and their willingness to negotiate.

Tottenham want Rico Lewis and another Man City star

It would be the second body Spurs are looking to sign from their foes this summer.

We told you earlier in the window how Savinho is on Spurs’ shortlist as they seek to strengthen at the top end of the pitch and in the wide areas.

Frank’s outfit began their new season with a 3-0 victory over Burnley but with James Maddison suffering a long-term ACL injury, they need reinforcements and Savinho is being considered.

He is believed to be another star Guardiola does not want to lose.