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Revealed: Man City set sights on ‘experienced’ replacement after big-name exit confirmed

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Credit: Imago Mon 20 April 2026 18:00, UK Bernardo Silva’s impending exit is set to see Manchester City target a new midfield signing with more experience than their recent transfer targets.Silva revealed last week that he will bring down the curtain on his nine-year spell at the Etihad Stadium at the end of this season.The 31-year-old has won countless trophies at City, and displayed his class once more on Sunday as they emerged victorious in a potentially title-deciding clash against Arsenal.As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, Pep Guardiola wants to sign an experienced midfielder this summer to negate the loss of his standout leadership qualities.Man City’s transfer plans are ramping up ahead of the summer, with numerous midfielders on their radar to replace the Portugal star. 🔄 Man City Transfer Update 🔄 Breaking news on signings, elite targets, and contract news from the City Football Group boardroom. VISIT THE TRANSFER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Man City to target experience for Bernardo Silva replacement, Ibrahim Maza move looks unlikelySources have revealed to Football Insider that Man City are interested in Leverkusen talent Maza ahead of the summer window.He has been impressive in the Bundesliga this season, but is just 20-years-old, and the Citizens are set to prioritise a more mature, battle-hardened replacement for Silva after he leaves.Minutes98′Touches75Accurate passes53/59Chances created1Tackles3Recoveries5Ground duels won5Silva’s stats vs ArsenalSpeaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “We know that Man City will be in the market for midfield reinforcements with Bernardo Silva set to leave the Etihad.



“They’re probably looking for somebody a bit more experienced (than Maza) to come in and fill the boots of Silva.”Pep Guardiola is pushing for Rodri to sign a new contract after Silva newsRodri has found form over the last few months, after missing the majority of last season and struggling for match fitness in the early stages of this campaign.He has been linked with an exit alongside Silva this summer after controversially revealing that he would not turn down an offer to join Real Madrid.Sources have revealed to Football Insider that Guardiola is keen to tie Rodri down to a new deal to stop him from leaving, as he is soon set to enter the final year of his contract. Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Man City Insider Access Get the full story from the Etihad Stadium and CFA with our dedicated expert hubs: Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the Etihad Campus.