Pep Guardiola tight-lipped on Man City's January transfer window plans

Reports have suggested City are edging closer to a 65 million pounds deal for Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo, with negotiations believed to be at an advanced stage. However, Guardiola declined to confirm any progress, repeatedly insisting there was "no news" to share despite the winter transfer window opening this week.

"I don't know anything right now," Guardiola said when pressed on Semenyo. "The transfer window is completely closed at the moment."

The potential arrival of the Ghana international could have implications for City's squad, with winger Oscar Bobb linked with a loan move to Borussia Dortmund. Yet Guardiola was equally non-committal on the Norwegian's future, deflecting questions and suggesting any clarity would come in due course. "What is going to happen is going to happen," he added. "You can ask Oscar, not me."

Off the pitch uncertainty contrasts with City's strong recent form. Guardiola's side closed out a difficult, trophyless 2025 with an eight-match winning run in all competitions and now have the opportunity to reduce Arsenal's lead at the top of the table. Mikel Arteta's side moved five points clear after an emphatic midweek victory over Aston Villa, but City can cut that gap to two with a win at the Stadium of Light.

Despite Arsenal's advantage, Guardiola dismissed the idea that the title race is narrowing. "A few weeks ago it was one team, then it was three, now people say it's two," he said. "We will see."

Thursday's opponents Sunderland present a stern test. Newly promoted under Regis Le Bris, they are unbeaten at home this season and sit seventh at the halfway point of the campaign. Guardiola recalled the hostile atmosphere of previous visits and acknowledged the challenge ahead, pointing out that several top sides have already struggled there.

"It will be really difficult," he said. "But at the same time, we are ready."

For now, Guardiola is keeping his focus firmly on the pitch, leaving questions over Semenyo, Bobb and City's January business unanswered as the title race continues to evolve.

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