Gerónimo Rulli open to Manchester City as Enzo Maresca targets new backup goalkeeper

Manchester City have identified Olympique de Marseille goalkeeper Gerónimo Rulli as their preferred replacement for James Trafford, with the former Ajax shot-stopper reportedly open to a return to the Etihad Stadium.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, City have made Rulli their leading target to provide competition and cover for first-choice goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. Marseille are aware of City's interest as Enzo Maresca's side prepare for Trafford's expected move to Leeds United.

Rulli is under contract with the Ligue 1 club until the summer of 2027, meaning City will need to negotiate a transfer fee if they are to complete a deal.

City's interest in Rulli follows Trafford's imminent transfer to Leeds United, creating a vacancy for an experienced deputy behind Donnarumma.

Rather than pursuing a young goalkeeper with long-term potential, City appear to be targeting a proven option capable of providing reliable cover while also bringing valuable experience to Maresca's squad.

Rulli fits that profile after establishing himself as Marseille's first-choice goalkeeper last season.

The 34-year-old was a regular starter for Marseille throughout the 2025/26 campaign, making 29 Ligue 1 appearances and keeping Dutch goalkeeper Jeffrey de Lange out of the starting XI.

His consistent performances helped cement his place as the club's number one following his arrival from Ajax last year.

Reports suggest the Argentine international is interested in returning to Manchester City, where he previously spent time earlier in his career without making a competitive first-team appearance.

Rulli joined Ajax from Villarreal in January 2023 for around €8 million and went on to make 32 appearances for the Eredivisie club.

After 18 months in Amsterdam, he completed a move to Marseille for approximately €4 million, where he has rebuilt his reputation with a series of dependable performances in France.

The eight-time Argentina international was also included in his country's squad for the most recent World Cup, although he did not feature during the tournament.

A move to Manchester City would mark a return to familiar surroundings and provide the experienced goalkeeper with another opportunity to compete at the highest level, this time as an established senior professional rather than a developing player.

City's priority will be reaching an agreement with Marseille after identifying Rulli as Trafford's replacement. With the player reportedly interested in the move, negotiations between the two clubs are expected to determine whether the experienced Argentine returns to the Etihad before the transfer window closes.