Manchester City have once again swooped in early to secure the long-term futures of emerging stars elsewhere in the Premier League, it has been revealed.
The Etihad Stadium club’s Academy recruitment drive has shown no signs of slowing down this summer, with Manchester City aggressively targeting some of the brightest young players across England to bolster their next generation of talent.
The summer months saw several names linked with the club, while ongoing reports have consistently highlighted the priority being placed on building depth at both the Under-18 and Elite Development Squad levels.
City’s strategy reflects a long-standing approach under the City Football Academy model, where investment into youth talent is matched with opportunities to develop through the loan network and occasional first-team exposure.
The latest swoops continue a pattern of identifying players from rival Premier League setups before they sign professional terms, offering a proven environment for development that has already launched the likes of Phil Foden, Rico Lewis, and Oscar Bobb’s respective careers.
With English football’s biggest clubs all competing to lock down elite prospects, Manchester City’s ability to move quickly and decisively has become a hallmark of their Academy recruitment policy.
Now, according to the information of transfer market insider Fabrizio Romano, Manchester City officials have now finalised the signings of both Dexter Oliver (16, attacking midfield) and Freddie Lawrie (16, centre-back) from Tottenham and Aston Villa respectively.
Both players arrive with strong reputations in their age groups, with Oliver seen as an intelligent creative midfielder, while Lawrie is a highly regarded defensive organiser who has already impressed against older opposition.
Their additions will further strengthen Manchester City’s Under-18 ranks, where competition for places is already fierce. Looking ahead, much will depend on how quickly the duo adapt to life at the City Football Academy and whether they can follow in the footsteps of Academy graduates who have successfully transitioned to first-team football.
The club’s network of development opportunities – including potential CFG loan destinations such as Girona – also provides an avenue for competitive minutes as they progress through the age groups.
For Tottenham and Aston Villa, their exits serve as reminders of the challenges Premier League clubs face in retaining top talent at Academy level when Manchester City and their rivals come calling.