AC Milan v Monza - Serie A
Tijjani Reijnders is closing in on a move to Manchester City (Picture: Getty)
Tijjani Reijnders was coy about his impending move to Manchester City, but said playing in the Premier League would fulfill a boyhood dream.
The AC Milan midfielder is expected to complete his move to City in the coming days after agreeing personal terms with Pep Guardiola’s side.
Reijnders will join for a fee of 55million euros (£46.3m), subject to a medical and should arrive in time for the Club World Cup.
His arrival will help bolster City’s options in central midfielder, especially given the imminent departure of Kevin De Bruyne who is expected to join Napoli this summer.
The 26-year-old, however, was keen to keep his cards close to his chest when asked about the move but hinted a move to the Premier League would excite him.
‘The clubs are still in talks. For me, it’s a waiting game now,’ Reijnders told Voetbal Internatioanl whilst on international duty with the Netherlands.
‘I myself have been involved very little. My father does that. The Premier League is of course a great competition, that’s what you dream of as a little boy.’
Crystal Palace v Manchester City - Emirates FA Cup Final
Pep Guardiola’s side have been active in the transfer market (Picture: Getty)
And while Reijnders may not have spoken to Guardiola yet, the midfielder has had conversations with international teammate and City defender Nathan Ake.
‘I haven’t had any contact with Guardiola yet, that’s not on the agenda yet,’ he added.
‘Here at Oranje I’ve already talked to him briefly about it. He would like it if I came that way. But it’s not that far yet.’
City have been active in the early days of the transfer market as they look to evolve their squad following a disappointing campaign on all fronts.
The club are keen to secure a deal for Lyon attacking midfielder Rayan Cherki, although they could face late competition from Liverpool for the Frenchman’s signature.
In defence, City are also confident of agreeing a deal with Wolves for attacking full-back Rayan Ait-Nouri who could cost as much as £50m.
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