Manchester City have secured a deal with AC Milan for Dutch midfielder Tijjani Reijnders — marking their first major acquisition of the summer transfer window, according to reports on Wednesday.
The former Premier League titleholders are expected to pay 55 million euros ($63 million) for the 26-year-old, who is believed to have agreed to a five-year deal, with final procedures still pending.
City are aiming to finalize the signing of the Netherlands international before the FIFA Club World Cup begins in the United States on June 14.
Reijnders made the move to AC Milan from AZ Alkmaar in 2023 and went on to net 15 goals for the Italian side during the 2024/25 season.
His addition will strengthen Pep Guardiola’s midfield lineup following the exit of Kevin De Bruyne.
The experienced Belgian midfielder is not anticipated to participate in the Club World Cup, with a transfer to Serie A title holders Napoli appearing more likely.
Midfielder Mateo Kovacic has been ruled out of the tournament due to surgery on an Achilles injury.
Guardiola’s squad had a frustrating 2024/25 season, ending third in the Premier League and missing out on silverware for the first time in eight years.
Last week, City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak stated the club “probably should have been more aggressive” in the transfer market leading into the season.
Guardiola’s side will compete in the newly expanded 32-team Club World Cup as the reigning champions, having lifted the trophy in its previous format in Saudi Arabia two years ago.
They will kick off their tournament against Moroccan club Wydad Casablanca in Philadelphia on June 18.
The current transfer window remains open until June 10 to allow teams to complete signings ahead of the Club World Cup, and it will reopen on June 16.
What you should know
Tijjani Reijnders is a Dutch midfielder who joined AC Milan from AZ Alkmaar in 2023. After a strong season in Italy, he’s set to bolster Manchester City’s midfield following Kevin De Bruyne’s departure, as the club looks to bounce back from a trophyless campaign.
