How do Manchester City sell young stars for so much money?

The most recent City academy transfer. James Trafford made his big money move away from the citizens following his Euro under 21 heroics. The keeper was purchased by newly promoted Burnley in a four-year agreement with add-ons worth up to £19 million.

As England won the European Under-21 Championship earlier this month without giving up a goal, Trafford maintained a record six clean sheets.

Trafford kept a record six clean sheets as England won the European Under-21 Championship without conceding a goal earlier this month.

When Spain won a penalty deep into injury time in the final, Trafford brilliantly saved Abel Ruiz's before keeping out a rebound.

Charles, a Northern Ireland international who has already earned eight senior caps, made his Premier League debut against Brentford in City's final match last year after enrolling in the academy at the age of seven.

Charles was a regular in Premier League 2 last season, leading City to their third straight championship after being instrumental in the team's triumph in 2021–2022.

The 19-year-old midfielder, who can also play centre back, signs a four-year deal with St Mary's.

The 19-year-old has drawn interest from a number of clubs after contributing 21 goals to City's Under-21 team's Premier League 2 victory. He is currently in advanced negotiations to join London Stadium.

For City, who frequently make sure they have the chance to re-sign some of their top academy talent, the agreement is anticipated to include a buy-back clause, but for West Ham manager David Moyes, it would be a huge piece of business.

Currently linked with Liverpool and becoming the the next piece of the puzzle to their midfield rebuild after only joining the Saints back in 2022.

Saints paid City an original £10.5 million for Lavia, with an additional £3.5 million in add-ons and a 20% sell-on clause.

The 19-year-old central midfielder is also subject to a buy-back option from Manchester City, which is estimated to be worth roughly £40 million.

The Belgian international made a handful of appearances for City in cup competitions before leaving on a permanent basis 

Bazunu reportedly cost £12 million and had already made 10 appearances for the Republic of Ireland at the time of the move.

After a successful loan stint in League One, the 21-year-old was crowned players' player of the year at Southampton's neighbours Portsmouth in 2021–2022.

Southampton paid £12 million, with prospective add-ons raising the price to almost £15 million. There may also be a buy-back clause in the agreement.