Fabrizio Romano has reported that Hugo Viana and Manchester City are set to sign a new central midfielder during the upcoming summer transfer window, with ‘100 per cent’ certainty.
This announcement aligns with the Etihad Stadium’s recruitment team’s efforts as they prepare for their second full summer window since Hugo Viana’s formal role as Sporting Director, taking over from Txiki Begiristain at the close of the 2024/25 season.
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As the club pursues an unprecedented quadruple—including a critical Champions League knockout stage clash with Real Madrid—the focus also shifts to strengthening a midfield that has undergone considerable transformation over the past year.
Recent speculation has focused on potential targets as the club aims to establish a long-term succession plan for players like Mateo Kovacic and Bernardo Silva, the latter’s contract expiring this summer.
While the January signings of Antoine Semenyo and Marc Guehi improved depth in attack and defense, the summer of 2026 is anticipated to be a key moment for City as they refresh their midfield to sustain high-level domestic and European aspirations.
Did City Pass on Felix Nmecha?
According to Fabrizio Romano, Manchester City were not in discussions for Borussia Dortmund’s Felix Nmecha, nor was the midfielder on their list of targets. Nonetheless, the club is committed to signing a midfielder this summer.
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Nmecha, now 25, has reportedly signed a new long-term contract with Dortmund that extends until June 2030, dismissing previous links to the Premier League and Manchester City.
Who Might Manchester City Target in Midfield?
The recent dismissal of rumors surrounding Felix Nmecha suggests that City is searching for a different type of midfielder. Reports indicate strong interest in Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson, who is valued at £90 million.
The England international had an outstanding performance at the Etihad Stadium in early March and is being viewed as an ideal signing for Hugo Viana—young, tactically flexible, and already proven in the Premier League.
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As summer approaches, speculation about the imminent signing will be a significant topic of discussion, especially considering the expected immediate impact on the first team.