Mahrez plans give City time

EVEN though the summer transfer window has barely closed, planning will already be underway for City's next moves in the market to keep evolving an ever-improving squad.

- JOE BRAY

Erling Haaland was the headline arrival this summer, and he has already transformed the team.

The signings of Julian Alvarez, Manuel Akanji and Sergio Gomez all seem to be value for money, while Kalvin Phillips could still be a good signing if he gets the chance to impress after injury.

City made a healthy profit this summer, fixing their long-standing striker problem and adapting to the departures of key midfielders and defenders. Now, attention turns to keeping the squad competitive for future seasons.

Ilkay Gundogan is the only senior player with a contract expiring next summer, although he has remained calm about the situation and says he wants to stay at the Etihad.

Then there is Kyle Walker to address in 2024, although that still gives City three transfer windows to solve their full-back issues once and for all.

And after that, in 2025, is the important group of Kevin de Bruyne, Bernardo Silva, Aymeric Laporte and Riyad Mahrez.