Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City have taken a pragmatic and calculated approach to the 2025 summer transfer window. Unlike many of their Premier League rivals who pursued high-profile signings, City added six players—two midfielders, two goalkeepers, one full-back, and a right-winger—without a single signing exceeding the £50 million mark.
The focus appears to be on squad depth, tactical adaptability, and long-term development as Guardiola refreshes his treble-winning side without breaking the bank.
Manchester City Signings Premier League for 2025/26:-
James Trafford
From: Burnley | Fee: £27m | Contract: Five years
The 22-year-old shot-stopper returns to the Etihad after a successful spell at Burnley. A product of City’s academy, Trafford previously had loan stints at Accrington Stanley and Bolton Wanderers before making a name for himself at Turf Moor. The Euro U21 winner will now challenge for the backup spot behind Ederson as he rejoins Manchester City.
Marcus Bethinelli
From: Chelsea | Fee: Free transfer | Contract: One year
At 33, Bettinelli arrives as an experienced third-choice goalkeeper. A Fulham youth product, he has featured for Dartford, Accrington Stanley, and Middlesbrough during his career. Though largely a squad player at Chelsea, he was part of squads that won five trophies, including the UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup. His arrival brings seasoned depth to City’s goalkeeping department.
Sverre Halseth Nypan
From: Rosenborg | Fee: £12.5m | Contract: Five years
The 18-year-old Norwegian midfielder is one of Europe’s brightest emerging talents. With 14 goals in 67 appearances for Rosenborg, Nypan is viewed as a long-term project. Guardiola will look to refine his raw talent and integrate him gradually into City’s world-class setup.
Tijjani Reijnders
From: AC Milan | Fee: £46.6m ($62.9m) + potential add-ons | Contract: Five years
The 27-year-old Netherlands international joins after an impressive stint at AC Milan. A versatile midfielder with strong technical ability and excellent ball progression, Reijnders scored 20 goals in 106 appearances for the Rossoneri. He has already featured for City in the FIFA Club World Cup and adds further dynamism to Guardiola’s midfield rotation. His previous honours include the 2024/25 Italian Super Cup and two Trofeo Silvio Berlusconi titles.
Rayan Cherki
From: Olympique Lyonnais | Fee: £34m | Contract: Long-term
Known for his flair and unpredictability, the 21-year-old right-winger joins City after registering 29 goals in 185 appearances for Lyon. Cherki has already opened his account for the Citizens during their FIFA Club World Cup campaign in the U.S., signaling his readiness for English football. He is expected to add depth and creativity to City’s attacking front line.
Rayan Ait Nouri
City Prioritise Balance and Depth Over Blockbuster Buys
With no signings over £50m, Manchester City have focused on enhancing squad balance rather than chasing headlines. Guardiola’s summer strategy appears aimed at reinforcing areas with smart acquisitions while maintaining the club’s competitive edge in both domestic and European competitions.
As they gear up to defend their Premier League title and challenge for UEFA Champions League glory once again, the Citizens are counting on their understated but purposeful summer business to pay dividends throughout the 2025/26 campaign.