Manchester City make initial transfer decision on right-back position in January window

Hugo Viana – Manchester City’s sporting director – is reportedly ‘unlikely’ to recruit in the right-back position during the upcoming January transfer window.

City’s long-running pursuit of a permanent Kyle Walker successor is set to continue into 2026, with club officials increasingly leaning towards delaying major investment until the summer market.

Despite ongoing, extensive scouting across Europe and multiple names linked – including Feyenoord’s Givairo Read, Juventus’ Andrea Cambiaso, and Crystal Palace’s Daniel Muñoz – the winter window does not appear to be the moment City will make their move.

Pep Guardiola’s side have relied on a mix of temporary solutions this season, ranging from Abdukodir Khusanov’s impressive but sporadic displays to Matheus Nunes’ ultra-versatile cameos.

While Khusanov earned significant praise before an injury, Guardiola has repeatedly stated he cannot be the full-time option. This has left Viana and the recruitment department monitoring the situation closely but reluctant to force a January deal without the ideal target being available.

Manchester City’s transfer model under Guardiola has tended to avoid mid-season spending unless an exceptional opportunity arises, or unless there is severe need for business to be done as in the case of the 2025 edition of such window. With multiple clubs aware of their need for a right-back and inflating prices accordingly, Etihad officials remain wary of overpaying.

Now, according to the information of The Athletic’s Jordan Campbell, it is ‘unlikely’ that a right-back will be signed by City in January, but it looks ‘likely’ to be a ‘primary focus’ during the next summer transfer window.

Tino Livramento is unsurprisingly provided a mention given he is ‘highly appreciated’ at City following their pursuit of the England international last summer.

The Athletic states it would be a surprise if Livramento does not remain at the top of their list heading into the New Year for the right-back role, but given the player is contracted until 2028, it is expected in the current market it would take a fee of around £100 million for a deal.

With Newcastle United under no pressure to sell and Livramento continuing to develop into one of the Premier League’s standout young full-backs, City face a significant financial challenge should they choose to revive last summer’s negotiations.

City’s decision may depend heavily on Khusanov’s form. Should the Uzbek continue his upward trajectory, Guardiola may instruct the club to wait until June before committing to a major outlay. However, any dip in form or further injuries could accelerate urgency.

Alternative targets remain under monitoring, particularly emerging prospects across the Eredivisie and Bundesliga, but Livramento is likely to be viewed as the complete profile for their system.