Hugo Viana Given €40M Transfer Dilemma as Serie A Side Opens Door to 2026 Sale
Serie A club Udinese have reportedly set a starting price for their highly sought-after attacking midfielder
Arthur Atta, as interest grows from Premier League giants Manchester City.
Pep Guardiola and his recruitment team have been consistently monitoring the market as the January 2026 transfer window approaches.
Atta’s impressive form in Italy has caught Manchester City’s attention, making him a potential long-term addition to the squad.
Atta’s Profile and Why Manchester City Are Interested
The 22-year-old midfielder has shown outstanding versatility, capable of playing across the pitch and occasionally stepping in as a striker.
His strong dribbling ability, stamina, and physical presence make him an ideal fit for Guardiola’s fluid system.
Guardiola is well-known for repositioning talent to maximize their impact. He previously transformed
John Stones and Rico Lewis into hybrid midfielders despite being natural defenders.
More recently, he has deployed club captain Bernardo Silva in a deeper, holding role despite his primary strengths as a right winger.
Manchester City’s Transfer Activity and Internal Squad Situation
After completing key business during the summer under new sporting director Hugo Viana,
Manchester City are not expected to be extremely active in the January 2026 window.
However, a potential move for Atta remains possible given the current squad needs.
Although Omar Marmoush, Phil Foden, and Rayan Cherki are fit,
City still lack depth in certain midfield roles. Atta could provide more stability and increase competition within the squad.
Udinese Set €40 Million Starting Price
According to Messaggero Veneto and relayed by Sport Witness,
Udinese plan to auction Atta with a starting price of €40 million.
The Italian club hopes his value increases as he continues to perform, having recorded one goal and two assists in
his first 11 Serie A matches.
A January transfer is considered unlikely because Udinese want Atta to finish the season.
Other clubs including Barcelona, AC Milan, and Napoli are also monitoring the situation.
Additionally, Atta is reportedly searching for new representation. He was previously managed by family members,
a common arrangement for rising talents.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much is Udinese asking for Arthur Atta?
Udinese have set a starting price of €40 million for the midfielder.
2. Is Manchester City planning to sign him in January?
A January move is unlikely as Udinese prefer to keep him until the end of the season.
3. Which other clubs are interested?
Barcelona, AC Milan, and Napoli are reportedly monitoring the player as well.
4. Why does Pep Guardiola want Arthur Atta?
Atta fits Guardiola’s system due to his versatility, dribbling strength, and physical style.
He can play multiple midfield roles and even as a striker.
Conclusion
Hugo Viana faces a major decision as Manchester City consider whether to pursue Arthur Atta for €40 million.
With interest growing from multiple European clubs, the January 2026 transfer window could become a strategic turning point.
Atta’s versatility and rising value make him one of the most exciting young midfielders in Serie A—and a potential fit for Guardiola’s evolving squad.
