Academy stars attracting interest
Manchester City are fighting to hold onto three of their most promising Academy talents this summer, with Ryan McAidoo, Reigan Heskey and Xavier Parker all reportedly attracting attention from elsewhere.
The interest arrives during a period of change in the club's development setup, following the appointment of Oliver Reiss as Lead Coach of the Elite Development Squad. With pathways into Enzo Maresca's first team still being mapped out, the club's top young players and their representatives are said to be exploring alternatives.
The premium on homegrown British talent has never been higher, and the City Football Academy has become a prime target for clubs looking to secure elite prospects before their market value becomes prohibitive.
According to the Manchester Evening News' Simon Bajkowski, all three have received enquiries this summer. Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola and Liverpool are believed to be leading the chase for 16-year-old forward Parker, while interest in McAidoo and Heskey is said to come from both domestic and overseas clubs.
McAidoo, an explosive 18-year-old winger, is widely regarded as one of the CFA's crown jewels. Chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak has previously singled him out as the Academy's most exciting prospect. The teenager made his senior debut in last season's FA Cup tie against Exeter City and signed a contract extension running until 2030.
Heskey, son of former England striker Emile, has seen his stock rise sharply after scoring a late winner against Manchester United in the FA Youth Cup final.
Hugo Viana and Academy director Thomas Krucken are expected to respond with improved scholarship offers and clear developmental promises to fend off interest from Merseyside and abroad.
With pre-season starting on July 20, the club will want these distractions resolved quickly so the next generation can focus on breaking through under Maresca.