Man City is reportedly eyeing a surprise Premier League star as an unexpected replacement for Kyle Walker.

Manchester City are reportedly targeting a surprise Premier League player to replace Kyle Walker.

Walker, who took over as City captain in 2023 following Ilkay Gündogan’s move to Barcelona, has departed on loan to AC Milan midway through the season after a dip in form. The move was finalized swiftly, with Walker taking the No.32 shirt at Milan, where he has already featured twice under Sergio Conceição against Inter Milan and Roma.

According to The Athletic, Walker informed City’s sporting director, Txiki Begiristain, of his decision to leave rather than speaking directly to Pep Guardiola. This reportedly disappointed Guardiola, given their strong relationship over the years.

City have faced a challenging period under Guardiola, spending over £175 million on four major signings—Abdukodir Khusanov, Vitor Reis, Omar Marmoush, and Nico González. However, they did not secure a direct replacement for Walker at right-back, despite strong interest in Andrea Cambiaso. Instead, Guardiola has adapted Matheus Nunes to the position, with Rico Lewis and Manuel Akanji also providing cover.

Now, according to Colombian outlet Antena 2, City have set their sights on Crystal Palace’s Daniel Muñoz as a potential solution. The 28-year-old, who joined Palace from Genk in January 2024, has thrived as a right wing-back under Oliver Glasner, making 42 appearances for the club. Chelsea and Barcelona are also reportedly interested in the Colombian international, who nearly quit football at 20 before establishing himself in the Premier League.

Palace signed Muñoz for £6.8 million and could secure a significant profit if they decide to sell him.

Meanwhile, Walker’s future at City appears all but over. Although his move to Milan is initially a loan, the Serie A side has an option to buy him for around £4.2 million, per Sky Italy. Given this, it is highly unlikely the 34-year-old will play for City again. Walker leaves behind a remarkable legacy at the Etihad, having made 319 appearances and won six Premier League titles, four Carabao Cups, two FA Cups, and a Champi

ons League.