Manchester City is eyeing Bayer Leverkusen's Argentine midfielder Exequiel Palacios as a potential summer transfer target, according to South American news outlet El Intransigente. The 26-year-old is seen as meeting the player profile desired by City for the upcoming transfer market. However, negotiations for Palacios, who is under contract with Leverkusen until 2028, are expected to be challenging as City would need to make an offer reflecting his market value.
As part of a significant squad overhaul this summer, Manchester City's new sporting director, Hugo Viana, will be tasked with ensuring Pep Guardiola has a competitive squad for the upcoming season. With Kevin De Bruyne set to depart, the central midfield position is a key area of focus for the club's recruitment strategy. Leverkusen's interest in City's James McAtee and Stefan Ortega Moreno could provide City with leverage in potential negotiations for their players.
With Leverkusen officials recently visiting City's facilities, discussions around potential transfers are ongoing. The club's transfer activity in the central midfield area, including the pursuit of Palacios, will be closely monitored as City prepares for the upcoming summer transfer window.