-
Since signing a new contract in 2025, Rico Lewis has primarily been a backup player under Pep Guardiola.
-
The England international made his way into Manchester City’s first team during their treble-winning season of 2022-23.
-
Nottingham Forest made a significant salary offer to Lewis last summer, but he opted to sign a new contract with Manchester City.
A recent report indicates that Manchester City will consider letting defender Rico Lewis leave the club for the right price this summer.
The 21-year-old has found playing time limited this season, and despite signing a long-term deal until 2030 in September 2025, he has fallen down the hierarchy at the Etihad Stadium.
Advertisement
Matheus Nunes has taken over as the preferred right-back under Pep Guardiola, having had his best season at the Etihad since transferring from Wolves in 2023.
Lewis has also struggled to find chances in midfield, especially with Nico O’Reilly establishing himself as a key player in Guardiola’s lineup after a breakthrough 2024-25 season.
Report: Man City to permit £30M Lewis sale
According to new reports, Lewis may leave Manchester City this summer, with a valuation set at £30 million for the adaptable defender.
The England international garnered strong interest from Nottingham Forest last summer but chose to remain at his boyhood club, signing a long-term contract instead.
Advertisement
Lewis rose through Manchester City’s academy and made his debut during the team’s treble-winning season, stepping in as the first-choice right-back after the departure of Joao Cancelo, who joined Bayern Munich on loan mid-season.
The Bury-born talent has enjoyed success, clinching two Premier League titles with Manchester City, but limited appearances this season have raised questions about his future at the club.
What are Manchester City’s transfer plans for the summer?
City’s director of football Hugo Viana is focusing on recruiting a midfielder as they prepare for life after departing captain Bernardo Silva.
An insider confirms that Rico Lewis might part ways with Pep Guardiola this summer.
The club is also discussing a new contract with Ballon d’Or winner Rodri, whose contract is nearing its final year amid interest from Real Madrid.
Advertisement
Acquiring a new right-back is also on the agenda, as the club considered this in January but held back due to Nunes’ impressive performances in that role, even though he is primarily a midfielder.
Outgoings will heavily influence Manchester City’s transfer strategy ahead of the 2026-27 season, especially with potential departures of Nico Gonzalez, James Trafford, Omar Marmoush, and Savinho.