Manchester City are reportedly prepared for a midfield fire sale as they target the signing of AC Milan star Tijjani Reijnders.
The 26-year-old has been a shining light for the Rossoneri this term in Italy while also making waves for Netherlands on the international scene, recently scoring against European champions Spain in the UEFA Nations League.
Despite exiting that particular competition at the quarter-final stage, Reijnders has enjoyed a successful term to date, emerging as one of many midfield targets for Man City.
While providing plenty of grit in the engine room, the Dutchman has added a significant goal threat to his game during 2024-25, finding the net on a staggering 14 occasions across all competitions.
Since making the switch from homeland club AZ Alkmaar to San Siro in July 2023, Reijnders has featured in 95 matches for AC Milan, scoring 18 goals.
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Man City heading towards midfield exodus amid Reijnders rumours?
According to Football Insider, Manchester City are keen on bringing highly-rated Reijnders to the Etihad ahead of the upcoming 2025-26 campaign.
However, there are supposedly a number of obstacles between the Dutchman and a summer switch to the blue side of Manchester, including the player's terms at AC Milan.
Reijnders recently signed a new contract at San Siro, an agreement that does not contain a release clause, meaning that the Citizens would reportedly need to pay in excess of £50m for the talent.
Adding further complications to the situation, it is understood that Pep Guardiola would need to make room in his Man City squad in order to sign the 26-year-old.
As many as three first-team stars could be pushed through the Etihad exit during the summer transfer window, with Kevin De Bruyne, Mateo Kovacic and Bernardo Silva named.
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Changing of the City guard
All past their 30th birthdays, it is undeniable that the powers of De Bruyne, Silva and Kovacic are beginning to wane as the 2024-25 campaign progresses.
As a result, it is only correct that Man City make swift arrangements for suitable replacements in the engine room, with Milan man Reijnders certainly fitting the bill.
Netting 21 times in the Premier League this term, Erling Haaland has scored three times as many league goals as his closest teammate in club's Golden Boot race, Phil Foden (7).
An overreliance on the towering Norwegian for attacking contributions must be addressed over the summer, with Reijnders capable of scoring consistently from midfield.
Carter White
