City hold power in Savinho talks

Tottenham have approached Manchester City for Savinho while City hold leverage, demanding a high price and weighing the risks of selling to a rival.

City hold the power in Savinho talks with Spurs

Tottenham have opened talks with Manchester City over Savinho, the Brazilian winger who joined City last year and has four years left on his contract. City hold most of the cards and would only sell for a premium, especially if the buyer is a direct rival.

A move this weekend seems unlikely as City prepare to host Spurs at the Etihad and Guardiola has publicly backed Savinho amid the interest. If Tottenham press ahead, the fee would have to reflect Savinho's potential and the market value for young wingers, with headlines suggesting a price in the tens of millions could still look reasonable if he develops as expected.

The dynamics here illustrate how elite clubs use contract length and development trajectory to set price. Savinho’s four-year deal means City can demand top money, while Spurs gamble on a quick upgrade for the attack. Selling to a rival amplifies strategic risk, since it could strengthen a rival while depleting a fringe of City’s depth.

Beyond the fee, the episode shows how long-term planning shapes transfer decisions. The Kane episode in recent seasons adds a layer of caution for City, who must balance immediate needs against the cost of misjudging a development project. The window will reveal whether City stick to a high price or bend to pressure from a rival trying to reshape the league’s balance.

Highlights

The transfer market keeps players moving, and timing could change the whole story.