Man City will try to sign Arsenal star in shock summer move | OneFootball

Guardiola Identifies Saliba as Key to Man City’s Defensive Overhaul

Pep Guardiola is no stranger to decisive summer shake-ups. But as Manchester City navigate one of their most underwhelming seasons under his leadership, reports from DefensaCentral suggest that this summer’s changes could be more strategic than ever—and none more so than the pursuit of Arsenal’s William Saliba.

Photo: IMAGO

With the Premier League title slipping away and a premature Champions League exit at the hands of Real Madrid, Guardiola has demanded what the Spanish outlet describes as a “revolution”. At the heart of that rebuild is a player he views as transformative to City’s defensive structure.

Saliba tops summer wish list

City’s interest in Saliba is not new, but what’s changed is the urgency. Guardiola is reportedly willing to sanction a substantial offer this summer, aiming to beat Real Madrid to the punch. Madrid are said to be watching the Arsenal centre-back with a view to 2026, when his contract enters its final year. Guardiola, by contrast, wants action now.

“City want to put a huge sum on the table to sign Saliba,” DefensaCentral report. “In fact, they would do it this summer, which could have consequences.”

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For City, whose back line has lacked the consistency of recent seasons, Saliba represents a natural anchor—calm under pressure, intelligent in transition, and already proven in the Premier League. At just 23, he also fits the profile of long-term succession planning.

Defensive reliability under scrutiny

Much of Guardiola’s frustration this season has stemmed from defensive instability. While the attack has continued to create, the rhythm and assurance that once defined City’s back line have been disrupted. Injuries, rotation, and inconsistent performances have eroded the foundation.

In this context, Saliba offers more than potential—he offers stability. His emergence as one of Europe’s most complete centre-backs has not gone unnoticed, and Guardiola sees him as central to restoring defensive control.

Photo: IMAGO

Race with Real Madrid

Beating Real Madrid to a player is no small feat, but Guardiola’s urgency may prove pivotal. While Madrid are patient, City are motivated. Guardiola reportedly views Saliba as the first step in a wider overhaul that could also see high-profile exits.

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The idea of signing Saliba from Arsenal is both exciting and audacious for Man City fans. They’ve seen what he’s done at the Emirates—bringing calm, control and modern defensive intelligence. If there’s one defender in the league who could walk into City’s back line and immediately raise the level, it’s him.

What makes this even more intriguing is the reported battle with Madrid. That adds a layer of prestige. City would not be buying to fill a gap; They would be competing at the highest level of recruitment strategy.

Of course, it’s hard to see Arsenal letting him go—especially to a domestic rival. But money talks, and if Guardiola genuinely wants a defensive reset, there are few better foundations to build on than Saliba.

We’ve seen City rebuild before, but never quite from a place of vulnerability. If this report holds, it signals that Guardiola knows this is a turning point—and he’s not waiting for contracts to expire or Madrid to make their move.