In a seismic development in the summer transfer window, Manchester City have reached a verbal agreement to sign Dutch midfielder Tijjani Reijnders from AC Milan, with the deal poised to be finalized in the coming days.
Sources close to the negotiations confirm that the Premier League champions are closing in on a €70 million package to secure the services of the 25-year-old playmaker, marking a significant coup for Pep Guardiola’s side as they bolster their squad for another tilt at domestic and European glory.
The transfer, which has been described as “almost done” since yesterday, represents a rapid escalation in Manchester City’s pursuit of the versatile midfielder, whose performances in Serie A and on the international stage have drawn widespread admiration.
Reijnders, a product of the famed Ajax youth academy, has been a standout performer for AC Milan since joining the Italian giants in 2023, blending technical finesse with tireless work rate in the heart of midfield.
His ability to dictate play, break lines with incisive passing, and contribute defensively has made him a prime target for Europe’s elite clubs.
According to transfer insiders, personal terms between Reijnders and Manchester City were agreed upon several days ago, with the player reportedly enthusiastic about the opportunity to work under Guardiola, whose tactical philosophy aligns closely with Reijnders’ skill set.
The final steps of the transfer, including formal documentation and medical examinations, are expected to follow shortly, with an official announcement likely within the week.
The €70 million package, which includes a base fee and performance-related add-ons, underscores Manchester City’s ambition to maintain their dominance in the Premier League and compete for the UEFA Champions League.
The acquisition of Reijnders is seen as a strategic move to reinforce a midfield that has been tested by injuries and the departure of key players in recent seasons. With Rodri anchoring the base of midfield and Kevin De Bruyne providing creative genius, Reijnders is expected to slot into a dynamic role, offering both flexibility and flair.
Sources indicate that negotiations between Manchester City and AC Milan accelerated in recent days, with the Italian club reluctantly agreeing to part ways with their star midfielder after an initial reluctance to sell.
Milan’s decision was influenced by the substantial financial package and Reijnders’ desire to test himself in the Premier League, a move that aligns with his career trajectory following successful stints in the Netherlands and Italy.
Reijnders’ journey to this point has been one of steady ascent. After breaking through at AZ Alkmaar, where he showcased his potential as a box-to-box midfielder, he earned a move to AC Milan, where he quickly established himself as a cornerstone of Stefano Pioli’s squad.
His performances earned him a regular spot in the Netherlands national team, where he has been tipped as a future leader for the Oranje.
For Manchester City fans, the impending arrival of Reijnders has sparked excitement on social media platforms, with the hashtag #MCFC trending as supporters speculate on how the Dutchman will fit into Guardiola’s system.
“Reijnders is a perfect signing—technical, hardworking, and versatile. Pep’s going to turn him into a monster,” one fan posted on social media.
Others have hailed the move as a statement of intent from the club, particularly as rivals like Manchester United, Arsenal, and Liverpool also strengthen their squads.
The transfer also highlights Manchester City’s continued ability to attract top talent, even in a competitive market. The club’s financial muscle, combined with Guardiola’s reputation as a transformative coach, has made the Etihad Stadium a destination for some of Europe’s brightest stars.
Reijnders’ signing follows a pattern of astute acquisitions, with the likes of Erling Haaland and Josko Gvardiol proving to be game-changers in recent seasons.
As the deal nears completion, attention will now turn to how Reijnders integrates into a star-studded Manchester City squad.
With the Premier League season already underway and the Champions League group stage looming, the Dutch midfielder’s adaptability and composure under pressure will be crucial.
