As Pep said the other day it is important to change players. This obviously means new ones coming in but it has to include some leaving.
We won’t get rid of all of the following, we might not sell any of them, but I think these are the players that could potentially leave to raise funds and/or freshen up the squad:
Sterling - woefully out of form and dodgy contract situation
Mahrez - had a good 2nd half of the season after terrible pre-Xmas form. Getting on a bit and will never have a better chance to recoup decent money for him.
Jesus - I love the guy and would like him to stay but even I doubt that he can ever be the main man. If we needed a makeweight in the Kane deal, I think he is the most likely candidate.
Bernardo - Love his work-rate and attitude but feel he has become something of a square peg in a round hole. I don’t know what his best position is and again could raise decent funds.
Laporte - Want him to stay but he is unlikely to be happy as 3rd choice and missing the biggest games. Could play for any other team he wants and from Citys POV, he could probably command one of the biggest transfer fees to raise funds.
Mendy - Doesn’t need any explanation.
Cancelo - I still think he is the best full back at the club and I do not want him sold. We were at our best when he was given the freedom to move into midfield and dictate play. As soon as the shackles are put on him and he is asked to be a “normal” full back, he is completely wasted and in Walker we already have a better version of a traditional, defensive right back. He won’t be happy playing 2nd fiddle and I can see him wanting a move away. Again, could raise good money.
Ake - Didn’t rate him at Bournemouth. Don’t rate him now. Will likely have to take a hit on what we paid for him but it’s preferable to him sticking around and adding very little to the squad. Again, if Spurs are interested, might prove useful in any attempt to sign Kane.
