Manchester City Unlikely to Sign Right-Back in January as Focus Shifts to Summer
Manchester City have reportedly made an early transfer decision regarding their long-standing search for a new right-back, with sporting director Hugo Viana viewed as ‘unlikely’ to make a signing in the January window. Instead, the club are expected to delay major investment until the summer market.
The club’s hunt for a long-term successor to Kyle Walker has stretched across multiple windows, with recruitment teams extensively scouting Europe for the perfect fit. Yet despite strong links to Feyenoord’s Givairo Read, Juventus’ Andrea Cambiaso, and Crystal Palace defender Daniel Muñoz, the winter market does not appear to be the moment City will strike.
This season, Pep Guardiola has leaned on a mix of makeshift solutions. Abdukodir Khusanov has performed admirably when available, while Matheus Nunes has filled in through his unmatched versatility. However, Guardiola has repeatedly stressed that Khusanov is not a long-term full-time option, leaving City cautious about any rushed January purchases.
City Maintain Transfer Discipline
Under Guardiola, Manchester City rarely dip into the January market unless an exceptional opportunity presents itself. With clubs across Europe aware of City’s need for a right-back, inflated fees are inevitable, and Etihad officials remain unwilling to overpay.
According to The Athletic’s Jordan Campbell, City are ‘unlikely’ to make a right-back signing in January but are expected to prioritise the position heavily in the summer window.
Tino Livramento Remains a Major Target
One name remains firmly on City’s radar: Tino Livramento. The Newcastle defender is “highly appreciated” within the club after City’s attempt to sign him last summer. However, with Livramento under contract until 2028 and emerging as one of the Premier League’s brightest young full-backs, it is believed a deal could cost close to £100 million.
Newcastle United have no pressure to sell, making negotiations even more complex. As a result, any move for Livramento will require a substantial financial commitment.
Khusanov’s Development Could Shape Final Decision
City’s strategy may ultimately hinge on Abdukodir Khusanov’s form. If the Uzbek defender continues his upward progression, Guardiola may decide to postpone major spending until the summer. But should injuries or inconsistency re-emerge, the urgency to act may rise quickly.
Beyond Livramento, City continue to monitor several emerging prospects in the Eredivisie and Bundesliga, keeping long-term flexibility intact. Yet Livramento is widely considered the most complete fit for Guardiola’s system.
FAQs
• Will Manchester City sign a right-back in January?
Currently, it is considered unlikely. The club prefers to wait until summer unless a perfect opportunity unexpectedly becomes available.
• Who is City’s top target for the position?
Tino Livramento is viewed as the leading candidate, though his price could exceed £100 million.
• Why is City delaying the signing?
High market prices, limited January availability, and confidence in temporary solutions have pushed the club toward waiting until summer.
• Could Khusanov become the long-term option?
Possibly. If his form continues to rise, City may delay major investment. However, Guardiola does not yet see him as a permanent full-time choice.
• Are there other targets besides Livramento?
Yes. City are monitoring several young talents in the Eredivisie and Bundesliga, as well as other emerging defenders across Europe.
Conclusion
Manchester City’s decision to avoid a January purchase reflects both market realities and internal confidence in short-term solutions. While the search for Kyle Walker’s long-term successor continues, the club appears set on waiting until summer to make a decisive investment. With Tino Livramento leading the shortlist and Khusanov’s development offering potential flexibility, the right-back position remains one of City’s most watched storylines heading into 2026.
