Sources: Man City set sights on ‘next Cafu’ to replace Matheus Nunes
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Credit: Imago Fri 27 February 2026 11:09, UK Man City have identified Roma right-back Wesley Franca as a priority arrival ahead of the summer transfer window.Man City want to sign the Brazil international before next season amid their ongoing desire to successfully replace Kyle Walker on the right side of defence.Pep Guardiola has trusted Matheus Nunes to be City’s main right-back this season, but wants to bring in a specialist player for the position this summerAs I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, Wesley is a top target and the Citizens are keen admirers of his talents.Credit: ImagoRead more: Wesley has already shown why he is perfect for Man City after silencing Chelsea starsMan City targeting Wesley after strong Roma formWesley joined Roma from Flamengo last summer and quickly nailed down a starting berth on the right of Gian Piero Gasperini’s back four or five.The 22-year-old can also feature on the left flank if needed, and has registered three goals and one assist in 31 appearances so far this season. MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “Yeah, I think he’ll be on the radar of City and probably a of top European clubs because of his success at Roma this season.“He’s really impressed since his arrival from Flamengo last summer as a real pacey, explosive attacking full-back.“He’s been nicknamed the new Cafu, so if he’s half as good as him, he’s going to be a hell of a player, no doubt about that.“We know that Manchester City are in the market for a new right-back as a long-term replacement for Kyle Walker.
“Matheus Nunes has done well as a makeshift right-back and has kept his place in the team because of a lack of options.“I think it will be a priority for them (City) to try and bring him (Wesley) in.”Read more: Sources: Everton plot ‘difficult’ John Stones deal as Man City exit offers emergeEverton want to sign John Stones this summerWith Wesley possibly on his way to the Etihad, one City defender, Stones, could well be on his way out after 10 successful years playing under Guardiola.Stones, 31, has been a key asset to the Citizens over the years, but injury issues have hampered his career in recent seasons, with just 34 appearances made since the start of last term.Sources have now told Football Insider that Everton are lining up a dream return for Stones, with David Moyes keen to revive his career in a similar fashion to that of Jack Grealish’s.He is out of contract at the Etihad in the summer, and also has interest from Bayern Munich and former teammate Vincent Kompany.