City do not appear to need a long-term starter here. They need reliability, seniority and someone comfortable arriving as cover rather than as the headline signing.
That matters. A club competing on multiple fronts rarely wants uncertainty in the goalkeeping group, especially when rotation, injuries and cup ties can test depth quickly.
The Argentine has a strong European résumé. His best-known club spell came at Villarreal, where he was first choice during their Europa League triumph and subsequent run to the Champions League semi-finals. He was also part of Argentina's squad for the 2022 World Cup and later collected more silverware with the national team.
There is also personality in his game. He has handled major occasions and pressure moments, which is often what separates a useful back-up from a risky one.
This is not a flawless profile. Reports have long noted questions around Rulli's decision-making outside his area and his handling of crosses. His spell at Ajax was also disrupted after a shoulder injury and a loss of place.
That is why this move, if it happens, would be about experience and cover rather than a challenge for the top spot. The next thing to watch is whether City turn a tentative link into a formal deal before the window moves deeper into its final stretch.