-
Manchester City is reportedly keeping an eye on Bayer Leverkusen star Ibrahim Maza.
-
In light of the confirmed departure of Bernardo Silva, Hugo Viana is focusing on strengthening the midfield.
Hugo Viana and Manchester City appear poised to pursue another of Algeria’s top talents.
City’s historical connection to Algerian players has progressed from the brilliance of Ali Benarbia to the successful tenure of Riyad Mahrez, who left the club during the summer of 2023 after contributing an impressive 78 goals and 59 assists.
Advertisement
That legacy continues with Rayan Aït-Nouri, who made a £31.2 million transfer from Wolves in the summer of 2025, which allowed Nico O’Reilly to transition into midfield for a significant portion of the current season.
Is Another Algerian Star Headed to Manchester City?
City’s long-standing connection to Algeria remains a significant aspect of their scouting approach, as they now track Ibrahim Maza ahead of the summer transfer window in 2026.
Recent reports from Germany indicate that Simon Bajkowski of the Manchester Evening News confirms that Maza is ‘definitely a player that Manchester City have watched and like.’
Advertisement
However, it’s highlighted that Maza is one of many players on their radar, and with other priorities for the upcoming transfer window, City aims to assess their needs and desires after addressing pressing concerns first.
Looking ahead to the summer, Hugo Viana is expected to lead a midfield overhaul and tighten the defense while preparing for his second complete summer window at the helm.
Potential Manchester City Targets for the Upcoming Summer
The primary goal is anticipated to be mitigating the confirmed loss of club captain Bernardo Silva, with Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest emerging as a leading candidate due to his impressive performances.
Advertisement
Even with Matheus Nunes performing well, the club is also focusing on strengthening the right-back position, with links to Tino Livramento from Newcastle United and Givairo Read from Feyenoord.
Youth recruitment continues to be a priority as reports from France have suggested that a City Football Group initiative to secure Troyes’ young talent Mathys Detourbet is advancing and nearing completion.
Since taking charge in July 2025, Hugo Viana’s strategy at Manchester City is clearly centered on a combination of established quality and elite young prospects, ensuring that Pep Guardiola’s squad remains primed for future success amid the potential departures of long-serving veterans.
Manchester City Transfer Tracker: Live Updates on Signings, Contracts and Loans