€100 million barrier: Manchester City dismiss Nmecha chase

A €100 million ultimatum has been placed on Borussia Dortmund’s 25‑year‑old midfielder Felix Nmecha, yet Manchester City have officially ruled out any pursuit, confirming that the club’s summer targets lie elsewhere. The denial follows recent speculation sparked by his form in the United States and a reported €80 million release clause that will not activate until 2027.

Enzo Maresca, the incoming manager, is concentrating on specific player profiles as Manchester City set clear objectives for the summer window. His focus excludes former academy graduate Felix Nmecha, whose name has been circulating in German media.

Sporting director Hugo Viana has dismissed speculative links, emphasizing the club’s recent £116 million acquisition of Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson as evidence of its financial muscle after the Pep Guardiola era. The record signing underscores City’s intent to build a new central engine room tailored to Maresca’s tactical plans.

Dortmund have secured Nmecha on a contract extension that runs until 2030, insulating the club from a cheap departure. The German side has also set a €100 million ultimatum for any Premier League suitor, while his €80 million release clause only becomes active in the summer of 2027.

Nmecha’s recent performances in North America have kept him in the spotlight, including a goal in a 7‑1 victory over Curaçao and an assist that helped Germany progress past the Ivory Coast in the World Cup knockout stage. These contributions have fueled speculation across Europe despite the lack of concrete interest from English clubs.

Local rivals Manchester United have been mentioned as a possible alternative destination for the Dortmund midfielder now that City have ruled themselves out. However, Viana’s decision to pass on the €100 million‑rated playmaker allows City to concentrate on other priorities.

One priority is the recruitment of a specialist right‑back to partner with Matheus Nunes, the expected No. 1 in that role. Other names linked with City include Chelsea’s Malo Gusto, valued at £75 million, and Feyenoord’s breakout talent Givairo Read, who also attracts interest from Vincent Kompany and Bayern Munich.

Manchester Evening News journalist Simon Bajkowski reported that Manchester City have shown no interest in re‑signing former academy product Felix Nmecha this summer, despite earlier reports in Germany. His comments align with the club’s official stance communicated by Viana.