Manchester City’s search for fresh midfield talent seems to have zeroed in on AC Milan’s Tijjani Reijnders, a 26-year-old Dutch standout whose rise in Serie A has turned plenty of heads. Despite signing a new deal at Milan that runs until 2030, sources close to both clubs suggest City might test the Rossoneri’s resolve with an offer that could climb to about $65 million. That figure has reportedly been revised upward in recent weeks, reflecting how influential Reijnders has become in Italy.
He joined Milan from AZ Alkmaar in 2023 for around $22 million. Since then, his value has nearly tripled. He’s scored in key moments, provided link-up play across the pitch, and rarely misplaces a pass. In one league match, he didn’t miss a single pass the entire game, a feat that speaks to his near-flawless distribution.
Even as the rumors swirl, Reijnders himself seems intent on staying put. “I feel honored by Milan’s offer to extend my contract after just one year,” he said earlier this season. That sense of loyalty lines up with reports that he’s reluctant to consider a move away from the San Siro, particularly given Milan’s ambition to return to Europe’s elite. Yet the lure of a Premier League move, especially to a team managed by Pep Guardiola, has changed minds before.
A possible shift in Manchester
City’s midfield could look very different next season. Questions remain around the futures of club veterans, and the team’s engine room, at times, has lacked the spark fans have come to expect. Reijnders, known for both his tactical awareness and knack for scoring from deep runs, would offer something new in that department. And while he’s primarily a central midfielder, he’s also comfortable pushing forward or dropping back to screen the defense. That versatility fits the Guardiola blueprint, which demands technical skill and an almost obsessive work rate.
From Milan’s perspective, the situation is complicated. They view Reijnders as a cornerstone and have steadily upped his salary to around $3.8 million annually, hoping he’ll stay and help the club progress. However, if they fail to qualify for the Champions League, financial pressures may nudge them toward considering a sale. Some insiders believe that an offer in the range of $65 million could test Milan’s stance, regardless of Reijnders’ loyalty.
For now, he remains one of Milan’s most valuable assets, both on and off the pitch. His presence in big matches, near-total midfield passing command, and demonstrated leadership have made him a fan favorite. Whether he stays to fulfill that extended contract or accepts a new challenge at Manchester City could be one of this summer’s defining stories.
