Guardiola: 'I don't think we are going to sign more this season'

Manchester City are unlikely to bring in more new signings ahead of Thursday's transfer deadline, according to manager Pep Guardiola.

The Premier League champions' only major acquisition of the close-season so far came when Riyad Mahrez joined for a club-record £60million from Leicester City last month.

Another specialist holding midfield option alongside Fernandinho was also a priority but City's pursuit of Jorginho ended with the Italy international moving to Chelsea from Napoli.

Jorginho struggled in the Chelsea side that City swept aside 2-0 thanks to a Sergio Aguero brace during Sunday's Community Shield and, after the match, Guardiola hinted his club might be closing in on a new signing.

But he sounded a different tone at Sky Sports' Premier League launch event on Tuesday when discussing the options within his squad who can operate at the base of the midfield.

"We have Fernandinho, [Ilkay] Gundogan can play there. At Tottenham last season when Fernandinho was suspended he played top

"But Gundogan I like as a player with a special feeling in the box. I remember a little bit Paul Scholes who had the special feeling in that position.

"We don't have many. I don't think we are going to sign more this season.

"John [Stones], I think he can play there but I don't know." Guardiola added.

 

August 6, 2018