Manchester City are currently facing a battle to keep hold of Stefan Ortega Moreno, with talks over a new contract stalling.
It was reported at the back end of last year that City were hoping to tie Moreno down to a new deal at the Etihad, after he established himself as a brilliant back-up to Ederson last season.
Ortega played the entirety of City’s FA Cup campaign, and also played some Premier League and Champions League matches and impressed.
But there hasn’t been any movement since those reports.
Now, Florian Plettenberg has provided a slightly concerning update on the situation…
Contract talks between Manchester City and Stefan Ortega Moreno have stalled as Anderlecht lurk
Many City fans are hoping that there will be a breakthrough soon but at the moment, there doesn’t appear to be anything in the offing regarding Ortega extending at the club.
As things currently stand, he is contracted to the club until the summer of 2025.
German journalist Florian Plettenberg has reported today that talks have stalled, and he also brings news of one club keeping an eye on the situation.
He wrote on X: “Excl. News #Ortega: Talks about a new contract beyond 2025 are currently stalling! His departure in summer is possible! No agreement between both parties regarding the salary issue
“Ortega, ready to become a No. 1. More talks with Man City are scheduled as Guardiola is a big fan and highly values him. Anderlecht and more clubs are interested.”
Previously, it has been reported that Bayern Munich have been interested in signing German stopper Ortega.
Losing Ortega would be a shame for City
Ederson is firmly established as the number one at the Etihad which has been the case since he walked through the door in the summer of 2018.
It has been crystal clear that the Brazilian is integral to the way City player under Pep Guardiola.
But that does not mean £55,000-a-week star Ortega is redundant. In fact, he has been a terrific addition for the club and those that played a part in signing him on a free transfer deserve tremendous credit.
By and large, Ortega has performed well for City when called upon – especially last season.
He may not play that often, but he helps to give Ederson the push that he needs and is a popular figure in the dressing room and these things are very important.
It would be understandable if he wanted to leave and go and be a number one elsewhere, because many clubs would be lucky to have him. But hopefully, City can retain him and get him to sign an extension.
