Guardiola Blocks Savinho Departure as Manchester City Rejects £70M Tottenham Interest

Pep Guardiola blocks Savinho's exit to Tottenham, insisting the Brazilian remains key to Manchester City's plans as the long-term successor to Bernardo Silva.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 21, 2026, 5:56 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from YSScores

Guardiola Declares Brazilian Sensation Untouchable Amid Interest

The tactical blueprint for Manchester City’s next campaign firmly includes Savinho, as Pep Guardiola has reportedly classified the young winger as a non-saleable asset. Despite persistent inquiries from Premier League rivals, most notably Tottenham Hotspur, the City manager has intervened to shut down any potential negotiations. Guardiola’s stance is rooted in a belief that the Brazilian possesses a world-class ceiling that has yet to be fully realized at the Etihad Stadium. This internal protection comes at a time when the club is bracing for significant changes in its veteran core, making the retention of young, high-potential talent a strategic priority.

Tottenham Bid Rejected as Spurs Seek Post-Son Replacement

Tottenham’s pursuit of the 22-year-old intensified following the departure of club legend Son Heung-min to LAFC, leaving a void in their attacking frontline. North London officials reportedly tabled a £70 million offer earlier this spring to test City’s resolve, but the bid was immediately dismissed by City’s sporting director, Hugo Viana. While Spurs were prepared to offer Savinho the guaranteed starting role he has lacked in Manchester, the hierarchy at the Etihad remains convinced that his development is best served under Guardiola’s direct tutelage, even if his current league starts remain in the single digits.

Strategic Role as the Heir to Bernardo Silva

A primary factor in Manchester City’s refusal to sell is the expected departure of midfield maestro Bernardo Silva this summer. Tactical briefings suggest that Guardiola views Savinho not just as a traditional winger, but as a creative force capable of transitioning into the central and half-space roles currently occupied by Silva. The club’s internal evaluations highlight his success in self-organizing play and his high passing completion rate as evidence that he can absorb the responsibilities of City’s veteran playmakers. This planned evolution makes his presence essential to the squad’s structural continuity.