Ever since Pep Guardiola's appointment at the Etihad Stadium, the Catalan has been reinventing the way football teams operate.
From the Premier League through to non-league, clubs are using ball-playing defenders to begin attacks and forwards for the first line of the press.
It is a transformation that has produced incredible results at Manchester City, with their recent domestic success a fourth triumph in five seasons.
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Another key aspect of City's play starts from the goalkeeper.
Guardiola introduced the concept of 'keepers using their feet to help in the build-up and he demanded that they were just as comfortable with the ball on the ground as they would be with their hands.
That meant Joe Hart - a clear fan favourite - was shipped out to be replaced with Ederson, who has been City's number one for over five years now.
A number of people have played the role of the Brazilian's back-up - including Aro Muric and Claudio Bravo.
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However, in the last two seasons, American 'keeper Zack Steffen has taken the reigns and produced some solid performances when called upon.
His last appearance was one to forget; in the FA Cup semi-final against Liverpool, Steffen took too long on the ball and allowed Sadio Mané to slide in and double the the Reds' lead.
It was a display that worried a lot of City supporters about his ability to fill in for Ederson and there has since been rumours surrounding his potential exit.
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That has been further emphasised by Alex Crook today, who claims Steffen is on the verge of joining Championship outfit, Middlesborough in the Championship.
Chris Wilder's side have already completed numerous deals this summer and are looking to make a push for the play-off positions in the upcoming season.
With the US national team's qualification for the FIFA World Cup in Qatar later this year, it is important to note that Steffen could be wanting more game time.
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He is unlikely to earn that at City and a move for the next 12 months could be best for all parties.
While the form of deal was initially unreported, Tyrone Marshall of the Manchester Evening News states that the deal will be a 12-month loan at the Riverside.
In addition, Stefan Ortega's imminent move to Manchester City on a free transfer may impact the American's thinking.
After impressing in the Bundesliga, the 29-year-old German is looking for a fresh challenge and might just find one in East Manchester.
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Topics: Manchester City, Zack Steffen, Ederson, Premier League, Middlesbrough, Manchester City Transfer News & Rumours
Harry Siddall