Manchester City are exploring the possibility of a remarkable multi-player exchange as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of the summer transfer window, with Newcastle United at the centre of their plans.
Fresh from a commanding Carabao Cup triumph over Arsenal, Manchester City find themselves at a crucial juncture in their season.
While silverware has already been secured, their broader ambitions remain delicately poised.
Pep Guardiola’s side still harbour hopes—albeit slim—of completing a domestic treble. An eagerly anticipated FA Cup quarter-final against Liverpool awaits after the international break, while their Premier League title challenge continues.
City currently trail league leaders Arsenal by nine points, although they have a game in hand with eight fixtures remaining.
Despite their ongoing commitments on multiple fronts, attention has already begun to shift towards the summer. Recruitment plans appear to be gathering pace, with the club targeting reinforcements that could reshape the squad.
Reports indicate that Sandro Tonali and Elliot Anderson are among City’s primary targets. The duo are believed to command a combined valuation approaching £190 million, a figure that may prove prohibitive even for a club with City’s financial strength.
In response, an alternative strategy has emerged—one that could see multiple players exchanged between the two clubs in a deal rarely seen at the highest level of English football.
Six-player exchange under consideration
According to GOAL, Manchester City are assessing a potential swap arrangement involving as many as six players.
Alongside their interest in Tonali and Anderson, City are also monitoring Tino Livramento, further underlining their intent to bolster both midfield and defensive options.
To facilitate such a deal, City could offer a quartet of players to Newcastle. Goalkeeper James Trafford, defenders Rico Lewis and Issa Kaboré, as well as centre-back Jumah Bah, are all reportedly under consideration as part of the proposed exchange.
While swap deals are not uncommon in football, transactions involving such a high number of players—particularly between two Premier League sides—remain rare.
For Newcastle, the potential arrival of four players could provide immediate depth and flexibility across several positions. Meanwhile, City would secure individuals they believe can enhance their squad both in the short and long term.
Tonali, in particular, has emerged as a key figure in the discussions. The Italian midfielder has attracted significant attention since his move to England and is widely regarded as one of the most talented players in his position.
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Interest in Tonali is not limited to Manchester City. Manchester United have also been linked with the midfielder, though their chances of securing his signature may hinge on their ability to qualify for the UEFA Champions League.
It is understood that Tonali has a gentleman’s agreement in place that could allow him to depart Newcastle should the club fail to secure a place in Europe’s premier club competition. Such a clause could prove decisive in determining his next destination.
Earlier this month, his agent Giuseppe Riso offered insight into the player’s ambitions during an interview with Calcio e Finanza.
When asked about the possibility of a move to Manchester City or Arsenal, Riso stated: “Exactly, that was the goal from the moment he went to England — to try to make him a star player. I think he’s the Italian footballer with one of the highest values in the world.”
At present, the 25-year-old is among Newcastle’s top earners, reportedly receiving £150,000 per week—equivalent to £7.8 million annually.
His status within the squad reflects his importance to the club, making any potential departure a significant decision for Newcastle’s hierarchy.
