Man City Backed to Complete Deal Imminently Amid Liverpool 'Smokescreen' - Expert

Manchester City are poised to finalize a major transfer deal in the January 2026 window, with insiders dismissing Liverpool's interest as a mere smokescreen, according to a leading expert.

The article highlights City's urgency at right-back, where Pep Guardiola has improvised by deploying central midfielders Nico O'Reilly and Matheus Nunes in defensive roles. Despite earning plaudits, their discomfort in these positions is evident from maps of assists for goals conceded, underscoring vulnerabilities in City's defense[1].

Enter the transfer target: a versatile defender with an $87 million release clause, who has attracted interest from both City and Liverpool. Reports confirm City have made the first move to sign this player, previously eyed by Arne Slot's side[2]. Liverpool's need for a right-sided centre-back is acute, with Ibrahima Konate struggling—topping the team's errors leading to shots and exposing the right flank to 41% of opposition attacks. Yet, Palace's collapse of a Marc Guehi deal has left them scrambling[1].

Expert pundit Football Insider sources claim Liverpool's pursuit is a "smokescreen" to mask deeper squad issues, while City, rebuilding momentum in attack, view the player as essential for silverware. "City are backed to complete the deal imminently," the expert asserts, citing advanced negotiations and Guardiola's full-backing from the board.

Leeds' defensive woes with Joe Rodon injured add context to the market, but City's proactivity sets them apart. As the window heats up, this signing could tip the title race, with Liverpool forced to pivot amid Slot's integration of Jeremie Frimpong[1].

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