Pep Guardiola Wants Man City to Make £171m Double Real Madrid Transfer Raid – Report | OneFootball

Guardiola’s Transfer Ambition Targets Real Madrid Midfield Duo

In what promises to be one of the most intriguing transfer narratives of the summer, Manchester City are plotting a bold double swoop for Real Madrid midfield maestros Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga, according to a revealing report by Defensa Central.

While this season has proven underwhelming by their sky-high standards, the current Premier League holders are clearly setting their sights firmly on a rebuild. As Defensa Central reports, Pep Guardiola “is in love with Jude Bellingham’s game and has ordered Manchester City to try to sign him”.

It appears Guardiola, no stranger to reshaping his squads with meticulous precision, has already identified the duo as key to restoring City’s domestic and European dominance.

Real Madrid’s Reluctance and City’s Resolve

Convincing Real Madrid to part ways with two of their crown jewels will be no mean feat. As Defensa Central reveals, Madrid are unlikely to welcome City’s advances. After all, Bellingham joined Madrid from Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2023 and won LaLiga and the Champions League with Los Blancos last season. His value—on and off the pitch—has only soared since.

Photo: IMAGO

Meanwhile, Camavinga, 22, has been at Madrid since 2021 and has won LaLiga twice, the Copa del Rey once and the Champions League on two occasions. Still developing and remarkably versatile, the Frenchman’s ability to play as a left-back gives him added strategic value.

Yet, despite Madrid’s probable reluctance, City’s intent appears serious. The report suggests Guardiola’s side are prepared to offer €200 million (£171m)—€150m (£128.3m) for Bellingham and €50m (£43m) for Camavinga.

City’s Tactical Motivation and Midfield Evolution

Should this ambitious pursuit materialise, it would signal Guardiola’s desire for a tactical refresh. Bellingham, known for his dynamism, intelligence, and attacking drive, would add a new dimension to City’s midfield, especially with the likes of Kevin De Bruyne not getting any younger.

Camavinga’s arrival could bolster both midfield and full-back areas, offering City much-needed flexibility in the squad. His pressing ability, athleticism, and composure under pressure are hallmarks Guardiola historically values in his players.

Photo IMAGO

One can’t help but reflect on the phrase “willing to pay,” which underscores how far City may go to secure these targets. “Man City are said to be ready to pay a total of €200million (£171m, $228m) for Bellingham and Camavinga,” Defensa Central reiterates. The financial firepower remains as potent as ever at the Etihad.

Summer Signals Shift in Power?

With the current campaign offering fewer trophies than usual, Guardiola’s approach feels like both a reaction and a proactive shift. In previous summers, tweaks were made; this one feels like a statement of intent.

Given Real Madrid’s own ambitions and tight-knit squad planning, the negotiation would demand more than just chequebook waving. Relationships, player preferences, and timing will all play a part.

Still, one thing is clear: Manchester City aren’t waiting for the season to end—they’re already writing the next chapter.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For a Manchester City supporter, this report sparks a mix of excitement and cautious optimism. Jude Bellingham represents not just talent, but a generational English midfielder who could become the face of City for the next decade. The idea that Pep is “in love” with his game only reaffirms what many fans have long believed—that Bellingham was born to play in a Guardiola system.

Camavinga, on the other hand, might fly slightly under the radar for the casual observer, but for those who’ve watched Madrid closely, his signing would be a masterstroke. His versatility makes him invaluable in a squad that needs depth in multiple areas. With City often rotating to maintain form across competitions, having someone who can effortlessly switch roles is priceless.

If City do secure both, it wouldn’t just be an upgrade—it would be a transformation. The midfield trio of Rodri, Bellingham, and Camavinga could rival any in Europe. It signals that while this season may have fallen short, the ambition remains sky-high. For fans, it’s a reminder that even when the silverware doesn’t come, the future is always in planning at the Etihad.

And crucially, it shows Pep is far from done.