Ryan McAidoo appears to be one of the most advanced candidates. The winger impressed at Under-18 level, has already made his senior debut and scored in City’s FA Cup rout of Exeter City.
His situation could become even more interesting if Savinho is allowed to leave, with the Brazilian reportedly attracting interest from Tottenham. Any opening on the wings would increase the attention on McAidoo, who has trained regularly with the senior group.
At the other end of the pitch, Oliver Whatmuff returns from a productive loan spell with Rochdale. He played a key role in their promotion campaign and could enter the conversation to become second-choice goalkeeper if James Trafford departs, with Gianluigi Donnarumma expected to be ahead of him.
Harrison Miles and Femi Fapetu offer contrasting midfield profiles. Miles, signed from Southampton, is moving towards the Under-21s and has already used first-team training to show his qualities. Fapetu is more defensive by nature but can also operate higher up the pitch, making his versatility valuable during preseason.
Further forward, Divine Mukasa already has senior experience after a loan spell with Leicester in the Championship. A further loan remains possible, but the tour could help determine whether he stays closer to City’s first-team plans.
Teddie Lamb, still only 16, is at an earlier stage. His finishing, physical presence and mentality have made him a prominent academy name, even if a first-team breakthrough remains some distance away.
The next question is whether any of these prospects can turn preseason minutes into a squad role - or at least force a compelling decision before the transfer window closes.