In Summary:
- Manchester City has agreed to a €55 million deal with AC Milan for Dutch midfielder Tijjani Reijnders, making him their first big summer signing.
- Reijnders’ arrival aims to strengthen City’s midfield, especially with key players like Kevin De Bruyne likely leaving and Mateo Kovacic injured, all before the FIFA Club World Cup.
- This transfer signals a more aggressive strategy from Manchester City after a trophy-less season, as they prepare to defend their Club World Cup title.
Manchester City has made its first major move of the summer, reportedly agreeing to a €55 million transfer for AC Milan’s Dutch midfielder Tijjani Reijnders. This key signing is set to boost City’s midfield options, especially as they face the likely departure of star Kevin De Bruyne and an injury to Mateo Kovacic. The club hopes to have Reijnders ready for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, where they will aim to defend their title after a disappointing season without a trophy. This acquisition shows City’s commitment to strengthening their squad and competing at the highest level.
READ MORE: Harambee Starlets Face Morocco Test Ahead of Key CECAFA 2025 Championship
Manchester City Secures Reijnders
Manchester City has reportedly reached an agreement with AC Milan for the transfer of Dutch midfielder Tijjani Reijnders, marking the English club’s first significant acquisition of the summer transfer window.
The move aims to bolster City’s midfield ahead of the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup.
Reijnders to Bolster City’s Midfield
According to reports, Manchester City is set to pay €55 million ($63 million) for the 26-year-old Reijnders, who is expected to sign a five-year contract.
The finalization of the deal is anticipated to occur swiftly, with City aiming to register the Netherlands international in time for the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, which commences on June 14.
Reijnders joined AC Milan from AZ Alkmaar in 2023 and had a productive 2024/25 season, scoring 15 goals for the Italian club.
His arrival will provide a much-needed boost to Pep Guardiola’s midfield options, especially following the expected departure of veteran Belgium international Kevin De Bruyne, who is reportedly close to a move to Serie A champions Napoli.
Additionally, midfielder Mateo Kovacic will be unavailable for the Club World Cup due to an Achilles injury requiring surgery.
READ MORE: CECAFA Women’s Championship Returns to Tanzania for WAFCON Prep
City’s Transfer Strategy Following Disappointing Season
This signing comes after a challenging 2024/25 campaign for Manchester City, where they finished third in the Premier League and failed to secure a trophy for the first time in eight years.
City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak recently acknowledged the club’s understated approach in the preceding transfer market, suggesting they “probably should have been more aggressive.”
The acquisition of Reijnders signals a shift in strategy, aiming to address the team’s needs and reinforce the squad.
Manchester City will participate in the expanded 32-team Club World Cup as defending champions, having won the competition in its previous format in Saudi Arabia two years ago.
Their opening match in the tournament is scheduled for June 18 in Philadelphia against Moroccan club Wydad Casablanca.
It’s worth noting that the transfer window is temporarily open until June 10 to accommodate clubs signing players specifically for the Club World Cup before reopening on June 16.
READ MORE: Harambee Stars Hit by Injury: Key Winger Out for Crucial Morocco Friendlies
