As the 2025 summer transfer window approaches, Manchester City are stepping up their efforts to reinforce their midfield.
With club legend Kevin De Bruyne widely expected to leave the Etihad this summer, the City hierarchy are actively searching for a young star capable of stepping into his shoes seamlessly.
Previously, Bayer Leverkusen’s 21-year-old German sensation Florian Wirtz had been heavily linked with City.
However, according to the latest report from Tuttosport, the Premier League champions have now identified another exciting target — Argentine playmaker Thiago Almada, currently plying his trade at Ligue 1 side Lyon.
Almada Rising: Europe’s Hottest New Target
At 24, Almada is entering the prime of his career. Since his move to Lyon, the Argentine international has gradually adapted to French football and delivered promising performances.
In 17 appearances across all competitions this season, Almada has registered 2 goals and 4 assists — a respectable return considering his limited playing time.
In Ligue 1 specifically, Almada has featured 13 times (6 starts), averaging just 53 minutes per match, yet he has still managed to produce 1 goal and 4 assists — highlighting his impressive efficiency.
Technically gifted and highly creative, Almada thrives as either a central attacking midfielder or a left winger. His versatility, sharp vision, and ability to unlock defenses make him an ideal fit for the demands of modern football.
Although Almada stands at just 171 cm, his low center of gravity, dribbling ability, and incisive passing more than compensate for any physical shortcomings. His playing style aligns perfectly with Pep Guardiola’s tactical philosophy of fluid passing, quick movements, and positional flexibility.
Crucially, Almada’s estimated transfer value stands at around €27 million — a relative bargain compared to the €100+ million valuation of Wirtz.
This presents a high-value opportunity for City as they look to balance squad investment under Financial Fair Play regulations.
A Three-Way Battle: City Face Competition from Inter and Atlético
Despite City’s strong interest, signing Almada will be far from straightforward.
Serie A giants Inter Milan are also monitoring the Argentine closely. Inter head coach Simone Inzaghi reportedly views Almada as a perfect addition to reinforce the creativity and dynamism of their midfield.
Meanwhile, La Liga powerhouse Atlético Madrid, led by Argentine manager Diego Simeone, are also eyeing Almada.
Given Simeone’s long-standing preference for South American talents, Almada naturally fits Atlético’s recruitment profile.
With multiple European heavyweights circling, Manchester City must move quickly and decisively — offering not just an attractive financial package, but also a clear sporting project to convince Almada to choose the Etihad.
Can Almada Fill De Bruyne’s Shoes?
Replacing Kevin De Bruyne will be one of the toughest challenges City face in the coming years.
The role demands more than technical skills; it requires exceptional vision, quick decision-making, and the ability to dictate tempo and break down stubborn defenses.
While Almada still lacks extensive experience in top-tier European competitions, his raw talent and upside make him an intriguing prospect. In Guardiola’s system, surrounded by elite teammates like Phil Foden and Bernardo Silva, Almada could develop into City’s next midfield maestro.
Whether it’s immediately replacing De Bruyne or being gradually integrated into City’s midfield, Almada offers both immediate contributions and long-term potential.
Nothing Certain Yet — But Momentum Builds
As always, the transfer market remains unpredictable. Whether City can outmaneuver Inter and Atlético to secure Almada’s signature will depend heavily on how quickly and efficiently they act in the coming weeks.
For Almada, the summer of 2025 will undoubtedly represent a pivotal moment in his career — whether to continue developing at Lyon or to step up onto the grander stages of the Premier League or La Liga.
The answer could be just around the corner — and Manchester City fans will be watching closely.
