Man City plot record-breaking move for Serie A midfielder as rebuild begins

Manchester City’s rebuild might bring them to AC Milan’s Tijjani Reijnders, but his high price could be a stumbling block.

After winning four Premier League titles in a row, City have struggled this season, sitting 18 points behind champions Liverpool with two games left and still not guaranteed a Champions League spot.

Their squad revamp began in January, spending over £170m on Omar Marmoush, Vitor Reis, Abdukodir Khusanov, and Nico Gonzalez, and more changes are coming.

🚨 Manchester City have contacted AC Milan to express interest in signing Tijjani Reijnders. Talks at early stage + no formal offer yet but #MCFC hope agreement will be reached to buy 26yo #ACMilan midfielder this summer. W/ @JamesHorncastle @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/4kF3xHHu7P

— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) May 13, 2025

With Kevin De Bruyne set to leave at the end of the season, Ilkay Gundogan nearing 35, and Bernardo Silva possibly joining Benfica, the midfield needs fresh talent, even with Rodri back from injury soon.

The Telegraph says Reijnders, a versatile, energetic midfielder, is a top summer target. He’s been one of Milan’s best players this season, contributing 10 goals and five assists in 35 Serie A games this season.

Milan reportedly want a club record fee, more than the £57m they got for Kaka in 2009, but City are confident of getting a deal over the line as they ramp up their summer rebuild.