Tijjani Reijnders, a midfielder for AC Milan
In recent days Manchester City have intensified their interest in AC Milan’s Dutch midfielder Tijjani Reijnders. Reports indicate that City are “stepping up their pursuit” of the 26-year-old, who was named Serie A’s Midfielder of the Season for 2024/25. According to Italian media, Reijnders even cancelled a planned July holiday in Ibiza, apparently at Pep Guardiola’s request, as City attempt to wrap up a deal before the FIFA Club World Cup in mid-June. Reijnders has reportedly told City officials to press forward on the move, underscoring how eager he is to join a club chasing trophies.
Pep Guardiola (left) and AC Milan’s Tijjani Reijnders (right) – City are reportedly “stepping up their pursuit” of the AC Milan midfielder.
Player profile and career
Tijjani Reijnders is a 26-year-old Dutch international who has rapidly risen in profile. Born in Zwolle in 1998, he broke through at AZ Alkmaar (where he spent his youth career and senior breakthrough) before earning a €15–20m move to AC Milan in 2023. At Milan he became a key starter under manager Stefano Pioli. Last season he made 54 appearances across all competitions for Milan, scoring 15 goals and 5 assists. In Serie A 2024/25 alone he notched 10 goals and 5 assists, playing primarily as a central midfielder. His performances – winning Serie A’s Midfielder of the Year award – have drawn interest from several clubs. Versatile and athletic, Reijnders can fill the holding role, a box-to-box engine, or even a more advanced No.8 as needed. He is also a full Dutch international, recently called up to Ronald Koeman’s squad for World Cup qualifying.
Why City are interested
City’s reported interest in Reijnders comes amid a midfield rebuild. With talisman Kevin De Bruyne set to depart this summer (widely reported as joining Napoli), Guardiola is seeking fresh energy and creativity. Sources say City specifically identify Reijnders as a top No.8 to partner Rodri in midfield. Analysts explain that City are targeting reinforcements in both the “No.8” and “No.10” roles after a trophyless season, and that Reijnders “is believed to be one of the primary transfer targets” for Pep’s squad refresh. Observers note he is seen as “an ideal fit” for Guardiola’s side – able to play centrally, defensively or in attack – which would add “fresh quality” to a midfield that is aging and losing key names. In short, Reijnders offers goals and dynamism from midfield at a time when City know they must replace De Bruyne’s output.
Current negotiation status
Multiple reports from late May indicate Manchester City have formally engaged AC Milan over Reijnders. Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano tweeted that “Manchester City have started club-to-club talks with AC Milan for Tijjani Reijnders as (their) top target,” and that an opening bid is expected soon as City “want to be fast” for the Club World Cup. Other outlets likewise say the deal is close to being done. Milan apparently extended Reijnders’ contract to 2030 this year, giving them leverage, but sources say they could accept a high bid. City reportedly already agreed personal terms with Reijnders – he idolized Guardiola’s Barcelona and “dreams” of playing for him – so the remaining sticking point is the transfer fee. Initial bids around €60m (£50–55m) have been discussed, but Milan are demanding more. One report says Milan are holding out for at least €90m, while others suggest an offer around €70m plus add-ons is under consideration. In any case, all sources agree talks will intensify in early June. City are keen to conclude the deal before June 1 (when the summer window opens) so the Dutchman can travel with them to the Club World Cup in mid-June.
Reported fee and contract details
Exact figures are not yet finalized, but Italian media outlets have speculated extensively. Reports claim an offer of €60m plus €10m in bonuses (total ~€70m) is “ready to be closed.” Other reports have suggested Milan will demand “upwards of £55million” (about €65–70m). Conversely, some say Milan now want as much as €90m (£75m) for their prized midfielder. With personal terms already reportedly agreed, City may need to sweeten their bid. If the transfer goes ahead, Reijnders is expected to sign a long-term contract (likely 4–5 years) with City, though no official numbers have leaked yet. (By comparison, Milan tied him to 2030 in his recent renewal, so City would likely match a high wage.)
Commentary from journalists and figures
Journalists covering the deal highlight the player’s enthusiasm. Fabrizio Romano notes City “want to be fast for the Club World Cup” and that several other top clubs are also interested, so City must move quickly. Italian experts echo this, reporting Guardiola has put Reijnders “at the top of his list” after De Bruyne’s exit. Former AC Milan midfielder Ruud Gullit called Reijnders’ move a “massive loss” for Milan, saying the Dutchman “wants to win – he is not satisfied with staying in a club that doesn’t fight (for titles).” Locally, Milan fans have already protested the idea of selling their star midfielder, underscoring how important Reijnders is to that club. For City’s part, director of football Hugo Viana (soon-to-arrive) and former director Txiki Begiristain have been urged to “go hard” on the deal.
Tactical fit under Guardiola
Reijnders’ skillset looks tailor-made for Guardiola’s demands. He is known for his high work rate, slick passing and ability to make late runs into the box. This versatility means Pep could deploy him alongside Rodri in a double-pivot, or push him further up alongside another No.10. In that box-to-box role, Reijnders would be expected to link defense to attack – covering ground defensively while also creating and scoring goals. Guardiola reportedly relishes that flexibility; observers write that “Guardiola will certainly love to have the 2024/25 Serie A midfielder of the year in his squad.” In short, Reijnders brings fresh legs and creative energy that complement City’s pressing, possession game.
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