Manchester City have reached an agreement with RC Lens for the transfer of Abdukodir Khusanov, according to David Ornstein.
Pep Guardiola has made his first reinforcement of the January transfer window. According to David Ornstein of The Athletic, Manchester City have reached an agreement with Ligue 1 side Lens for the signing of defensive prodigy Abdukodir Khusanov.
The 20-year-old Uzbekistan international has seen a meteoric rise this season, stepping into the spotlight after Lens’ Kevin Danso was sidelined with a heart issue. Khusanov quickly impressed, showcasing his defensive prowess and becoming one of the league’s most talked-about young talents.
By December, it became clear that Khusanov would not remain at Lens for long. The club’s sporting director confirmed that superagent Jorge Mendes had been instructed to facilitate a sale in January.
With Premier League rivals also showing interest, it became apparent that Manchester City were determined to secure the deal as soon as possible. The signing of Khusanov is now all but confirmed, marking an exciting addition to Guardiola’s defensive options.
Man City sign Khusanov
According to Ornstein, an agreement between clubs has been reached for a transfer fee in the region of €40 million plus bonuses. Khusanov is expected to sign a 4.5-year contract with the option of a further season, meaning that he will potentially be tied down until 2030.
In addition to Khusanov, Man City are also still in talks with Eintracht Frankfurt over striker sensation Omar Marmoush and with Palmeiras for 18-year-old centre-back Vitor Reis.
The former has been hit with an €80m price tag, but this is unlikely to deter Man City as Marmoush has become Guardiola’s top target for the frontline.
As for Reis, he is expected to cost in the region of €40m – despite a €100m release clause – although he could potentially remain with Palmeiras until the summer.
Neither of these two deals is as close as the signing of Khusanov at this stage, however. City have yet to lodge a formal bid for Marmoush – though personal terms have already been agreed – while their first offer for Reis was knocked back.
