Goalkeeper reshuffle takes shape
The picture behind Gianluigi Donnarumma is finally coming into focus. City are closing in on a deal for Marseille's Gerónimo Rulli, a move that would give them an experienced deputy without breaking the bank.
According to TEAMtalk, negotiations are advancing and the Argentine is keen to get it done. Personal terms on a two-year contract are reportedly already agreed, with an opening offer of around €2 million on the table. Marseille want closer to €3.5 million, so the gap is hardly cavernous.
Trafford's path
This all makes sense in context. James Trafford has moved closer to joining Leeds United in search of regular football, which left City needing reliable cover. Rather than splash out on another promising youngster, they have opted for somebody who knows what elite football demands and will happily sit second in the pecking order.
Rulli is no stranger to the club. He was on City's books years ago without making a senior appearance before returning permanently to Real Sociedad. Now in his 30s, he brings a CV that includes the Europa League with Villarreal, spells in Spain, France and the Netherlands, and involvement with successful Argentina squads.
"Rather than spending heavily on another young goalkeeper, City appear to have chosen a proven international in Gerónimo Rulli, who understands the demands of elite competition and would be comfortable accepting a supporting role."
Marseille's own business
There is a helpful subplot developing in the south of France. FourFourTwo report that Marseille's pursuit of Toulouse goalkeeper Guillaume Restes could help unlock Rulli's departure. If that deal goes through, the path to Manchester becomes that bit smoother.
It would be easy to overthink this one. City are not signing a long-term successor to Donnarumma here, nor are they trying to. They are adding a reliable, experienced pair of hands for domestic cup competitions and the occasional league outing. Rulli fits that brief neatly.