EXCLUSIVE: Guardiola weighs up spending spree with Frimpong and Van den Berg

Pep Guardiola has given the biggest indication he may stay at Man City yet by asking the club to sign two defenders next year, FootballTransfers can reveal.

Sources have informed us that the Spaniard has had an eye on Brentford’s Sepp van den Berg since the defender was registered with Liverpool but on loan at Preston North End. The centre-back caught his eye during a pre-season friendly in 2021 and he has been on Guardiola’s radar ever since.

Last summer, Man City asked the Bees about the availability of Van den Berg around the same time clubs in Germany showed interest in the Dutchman. However, the Reds ultimately accepted a strong offer from Brentford and he moved there for €23.6 million.

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One source has told us that, since Van den Berg has only recently signed with Brentford, a move to Man City isn’t likely to materlise until the summer of 2025.

We understand that Jeremie Frimpong of Bayer Leverkusen is another player that Guardiola admires. The defender has a good relationship with the former Bayern Munich man, while he is also a graduate of the City academy.

Last season, Frimpong was pitvoal in helping Bayer secure the Bundesliga title, with 14 goals across the season under Xabi Alonso.

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Guardiola’s contract

Guardiola’s current contract expires in 2025, and there has been talk of a possible extension for one more season.

The Citizens are weighing whether to encourage Guardiola to either sign on for a more substantial tenure to guide the rebuilding process, or step aside in favour of a new manager willing to shape the next era.

Of course, Man City’s leadership knows that they must act now to prepare for life after Guardiola – and ensure that the club remains a powerhouse capable of competing for trophies well into the next decade.