Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola says he hopes winger Savinho will remain at the Etihad Stadium for “many years,” but admitted he will not stand in the way of any player determined to leave.
The 21-year-old Brazilian, who made 48 appearances in his debut season last term, has been linked with a move to Tottenham Hotspur, where new boss Thomas Frank is seeking attacking reinforcements following Son Heung-min’s departure and James Maddison’s long-term injury.
Ahead of City’s Premier League opener away to Wolves on Saturday, Guardiola confirmed neither Savinho nor goalkeeper Ederson, linked with Turkish giants Galatasaray, had expressed a desire to quit.
“If they want to leave, they will come to me. If they want to leave, they will knock on my door,” Guardiola told reporters.
While stressing his desire to keep Savinho, Guardiola stopped short of ruling out a transfer:
“Tottenham or any other club who wants a player should call the club. I hope Savinho stays many, many years because of his potential, but in the end the desire of the player is above everything.”
Guardiola revealed Savinho faces “a few weeks” on the sidelines after picking up an injury in pre-season. Meanwhile, midfielder Rodri, who missed most of last season with a knee problem, is expected to travel to Wolves, though the manager warned his return must be carefully managed.
City’s boss has also been trimming his squad, allowing Jack Grealish to join Everton after a difficult two seasons, and confirming James McAtee is close to sealing a move to Nottingham Forest.
“I wish Jack all the best at a traditional club like Everton… I would love to have Macca but I have too many players,” Guardiola said.
Written By Rodney Mbua
