Guardiola exerts pressure on Man City as release clause for Kevin De Bruyne’s replacement is set to be triggered

Kevin De Bruyne, the attacking midfielder for Manchester City, is anticipated to remain at the Etihad Stadium this summer; however, his future beyond that time remains uncertain.

Dani Olmo, who is rumoured to have replaced Kevin De Bruyne at Manchester City, is anticipated to have his release clause activated prior to its expiration on Monday, July 15.

De Bruyne’s future at the Etihad Stadium is uncertain as he enters the final year of his contract. It is anticipated that the Belgian will remain in Manchester this summer, and the player has acknowledged that he anticipates a calm window.

Nevertheless, his future status beyond that point is uncertain, which has prompted speculation regarding his potential successor. Olmo, a Spanish attacking midfielder for RB Leipzig, has garnered significant attention in recent months as a result of his impressive performances at Euro 2024.

His contract currently includes a £50 million release clause; however, this provision is set to expire at the start of the upcoming week. The Daily Mirror reports that clubs from the Premier League and La Liga are preparing to activate his release clause prior to that date.

It is uncertain whether City are believed to be interested in activating the release clause in Olmo’s contract; however, the Mirror notes that Chelsea and Liverpool are not the only Premier League clubs monitoring this situation. Sport elsewhere reports that City may be compelled to sell Joao Cancelo by manager Pep Guardiola.

Guardiola is believed to be adamant that the full-back does not return to the Blues’ squad for preseason. Although Cancelo’s departure is City’s preference, they are unwilling to consent to another loan transaction.

According to reports, Al Ahli and Al Ettifaq have submitted two permanent proposals; however, Cancelo has declined to consider them. In addition, Barcelona may be involved in the competition; however, they are seeking a loan solution.

City are believed to be opposed to this proposal; however, Guardiola may compel them to do so in order to prevent Cancelo from returning to the Etihad.