Manchester City Open Talks with AC Milan for Midfielder Tijjani Reijnders
According to sources close to the negotiations, City have not yet submitted a formal offer but are expected to do so imminently.
AC Milan Dutch midfielder Tijjani Reijnders. Photo/Getty Images.
By Robert Assad
Manchester City have officially initiated contact with AC Milan over the potential transfer of Dutch midfielder Tijjani Reijnders, signaling their intent to act swiftly in securing the player ahead of competition from rival clubs.
According to sources close to the negotiations, City have not yet submitted a formal offer but are expected to do so imminently.
The Premier League champions are keen to accelerate the process, with internal plans focused on concluding the deal early to avoid a potential bidding war as interest in Reijnders grows across Europe.
The discussions are expected to enter a critical phase next week, with both clubs already engaging in preliminary talks. AC Milan are aware of City’s interest and are reportedly bracing for an official bid.
While the Italian side have not set a public asking price, it is understood they value the 25-year-old highly following his standout performances last season in Serie A.
Reijnders, who joined AC Milan from AZ Alkmaar in 2023, quickly established himself as a key figure in Stefano Pioli’s midfield.
His dynamic playing style, composure on the ball, and tactical awareness have drawn admiration from several top clubs, but Manchester City appear to be leading the race at this stage.
City manager Pep Guardiola is believed to be a strong admirer of Reijnders and sees him as a versatile addition to the squad, particularly amid uncertainty over the futures of key midfielders such as Bernardo Silva and Kalvin Phillips.
With Ilkay Gündogan having departed the club last season and Kevin De Bruyne’s minutes being closely managed due to injuries, reinforcements in midfield are seen as a priority this summer.
AC Milan are reportedly open to negotiations but will demand a fee that reflects Reijnders’ importance and potential. The Rossoneri are also evaluating their midfield options in case a deal materializes, as they aim to remain competitive in both domestic and European competitions.
Reijnders is currently under contract with AC Milan until 2028, giving the Italian club a strong bargaining position. However, Manchester City’s financial strength and the player’s reported interest in working under Guardiola could sway the negotiations in the English club’s favor.
Further developments are expected in the coming days as City prepares their opening bid.
