Rico Lewis in action looking left with mouth open at Enzo Maresca left inset looking downwards on sideline
Man City's Rico Lewis with manager Enzo MarescaImago

Source: Rico Lewis could push to quit Man City

Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

Transfer Correspondent AUTHORITY Former Sky Sports and ESPN FC correspondent who specialises in global recruitment, contract negotiations, and high-velocity transfer breaking news. FOCUS Exclusive reporting, domestic and international transfer markets, and elite-level insights. THE INSIGHT Pete utilises a Global Network of Industry Sources to deliver verified, first-to-market reporting. His “Deep-Lens” analysis connects the dots between boardroom strategy and pitch-level recruitment, providing a level of transfer clarity that goes beyond surface-level rumours.

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Rico Lewis could push for a move away from Man City this summer after struggling for game time last season, sources have told Football Insider.

The 21-year-old made just 11 Premier League appearances in Pep Guardiola's final campaign at the club.

He struggled for game time despite signing a new five-year contract extension in September that ties him down until 2030.

Enzo Maresca is set to assess his options in every position this summer, but it remains to be seen if Lewis is a part of his plans.

As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, the versatile defender could push to leave City if he is not promised regular minutes under the new manager next season.

He earned five England caps in 2024 after playing regularly for his boyhood clubs, but was not even in contention to make the World Cup squad this summer, despite their struggles at right-back.

Lewis has also attracted transfer interest from several Premier League sides, such as Nottingham Forest and Everton.

Rico Lewis' future hinges on Enzo Maresca's summer decision

The 21-year-old only started four league games last season, but did register five goal contributions in 23 appearances across all competitions.

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "He's still highly rated at City, there's no doubt about that, but he did find himself down the pecking order in Pep Guardiola's final season at the Etihad.

"It's a clean slate for everybody at City this year with Enzo Maresca, so I'm sure he will evaluate the squad and everybody in it before making decisions on potential exits.

"I'm sure Lewis was probably a bit frustrated with his lack of action last year. A lot of it will come down to the player when it comes to looking to leave. If he’s not going to be part of Maresca’s plans, he’s got ambitions himself and wants to be playing regularly [to stay]."

Rico Lewis in action looking left with mouth open at Enzo Maresca left inset looking downwards on sideline
Sources: Man City will only pay £30m less than Malo Gusto's price tag

Man City issue Chelsea ultimatum over Malo Gusto move

Maresca is keen on adding Chelsea star Gusto to his squad after their previous time working together at Stamford Bridge.

The right-back notched nine goal contributions in 56 appearances last season and is currently at the World Cup with France.

Sources have told Football Insider that City are only willing to pay £45million for Gusto as Chelsea demand in excess of £75m.

His potential arrival at the Etihad would surely spell the end of Lewis' time at the club, as he would be pushed down to third-choice at right-back.

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