Manchester City's second choice goalkeeper Zack Steffen is set to leave the club this summer, new reports have claimed on Friday afternoon.
The USA men's international goalkeeper has always been Pep Guardiola's back-up option in between the sticks, with Brazilian international Ederson being the mainstay in the starting eleven.
Steffen has often been restricted to appearances in domestic cup competitions, while featuring in more senior matches of less importance or during Ederson's absence.
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However, with Manchester City now expected to sign a new back-up goalkeeper in reserve to Ederson and to challenge the former Benfica goalkeeper, Zack Steffen's opportunities for increased minutes will be further hindered.
In a year when the USA will also be competing at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, it is paramount for the former Columbus Crew man to secure increased game time and cement his position as his nation's number one option in goal come winter.
New reports this week have detailed the chances of Zack Steffen's departure during the remaining weeks and months of the summer transfer window, highlighting his potential options.
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Firstly, according to the information of Martin Blackburn of The Sun, Manchester City have been looking at options for Zack Steffen this summer.
The report says that a one-year loan deal is 'the most likely' solution for the goalkeeper and the club.
Following on, as per the information of Roger Gonzalez of CBS Sports, a source is referenced as stating that Steffen is indeed set to leave the Etihad Stadium this summer in pursuit of additional minutes.
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Gonzalez confirms earlier reports, by stating that any exit would be in the form of a loan though, with the relevant talks now underway.
CBS quote their source as stating that a move away from Manchester City this summer for Zack Steffen is 'likely'.
A large reason behind the growing uncertainty surrounding Zack Steffen's future with the reigning Premier League champions stems not only from the upcoming FIFA World Cup, but also Manchester City's transfer market activity.
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As per a flurry of reports on Thursday, the English top-flight side have an agreement in place to secure the services of Stefan Ortega.
The 29 year-old Arminia Bielefeld goalkeeper will become a free agent this summer, and after an impressive season with the now relegated Bundesliga side, the player was not short of suitors.
Despite only looking set to become a back-up option under Pep Guardiola, there is an understanding in some quarters that the German goalkeeper rejected proposals from both Spain and within the Bundesliga in order to move to the Etihad Stadium.
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At present in regards to Zack Steffen, there have been no concrete reports in regards to possible destinations, but given his international and club pedigree established over the last few seasons, the player is unlikely to be short of suitors.
Featured Image Credit: PA Images / AlamyTopics: Stefan Ortega, Zack Steffen, Manchester City, Manchester City Transfer News & Rumours, Premier League, Football, USA, Transfers
