January 11, 2025

Man City Reach Agreement for Lens’ Abdukodir Khusanov

Manchester City are on the brink of finalizing a deal to acquire defender Abdukodir Khusanov, with sources informing ESPN that an agreement has been reached with Lens for the transfer. The Premier League champions are set to add the 20-year-old Uzbekistan centre-back to their ranks for a fee exceeding £40 million, signaling their intent to strengthen their defensive options ahead of a crucial phase in the season.

Khusanov’s representatives are currently in Manchester, working on ironing out the final details of the transfer. A medical is expected to take place over the weekend, paving the way for an official announcement early next week. The highly-rated young defender has been turning heads with his performances in Ligue 1, and City view him as a long-term prospect who could bolster their backline for years to come. If everything proceeds smoothly, Khusanov will become Manchester City’s first signing of the January transfer window, marking another significant addition to Pep Guardiola’s squad.

Manchester City are close to finalizing a deal to secure the services of defender Abdukodir Khusanov, with sources informing ESPN that an agreement has been reached with French club Lens for the transfer. The Premier League champions are poised to bring the 20-year-old Uzbekistan centre-back into their squad for a fee reported to exceed £40 million. This move underscores the club’s commitment to reinforcing their defensive lineup as they prepare for the demanding challenges in the second half of the season.

Khusanov’s representatives are currently in Manchester, working diligently to finalize the remaining details of the transfer. A medical examination is anticipated over the weekend, after which an official announcement is expected to follow. The young defender has impressed in Ligue 1 with his composure, defensive skills, and potential for further development, making him an attractive prospect for City’s long-term plans. If all goes as planned, Khusanov will become Manchester City’s first signing of the January transfer window, further enhancing Pep Guardiola’s options at the back. His addition reflects the club’s proactive approach to securing emerging talent and maintaining their competitive edge across all competitions.

Sources told ESPN that although Lens had hoped to keep Khusanov for another six months, they agreed to sell him to balance their finances. The French club had missed out on over €40 million in transfer fees last summer when deals for Kevin Danso and Neil El Aynaoui fell through. As a result, they enlisted the help of super-agent Jorge Mendes to find Khusanov a new club this month.

Sources have revealed to ESPN that Manchester City continue to keep a close eye on 18-year-old Brazilian defender Vitor Reis. The Premier League champions are reportedly in contact with Palmeiras regarding a potential move for the highly-touted youngster, though the Brazilian club remains firm in their preference to retain Reis until the summer. The defender, who has been making waves in South America with his exceptional performances and mature gameplay for his age, is considered one of the brightest prospects in Brazilian football. City’s interest in Reis aligns with their strategy of securing emerging talents who can be developed into first-team stars under Pep Guardiola.

In addition to their pursuit of Reis, City have also turned their attention to Eintracht Frankfurt forward Omar Marmoush. The 25-year-old Egyptian international has been in scintillating form this season, netting 13 goals in just 15 Bundesliga appearances and catching the eye of several top European clubs. Valued at around £50 million, Marmoush represents an attractive option for City as they look to bolster their attacking options during the January transfer window. While the club has yet to submit a formal bid, reports suggest that Frankfurt is bracing for an offer before the deadline. Marmoush’s versatility and goal-scoring prowess make him an ideal candidate to add depth and firepower to City’s already potent front line as they continue their pursuit of silverware on multiple fronts.

Further reading: Can Nottingham Forest Pull Off a Leicester-Style Premier League Triumph?