Manchester City have reportedly identified AC Milan midfielder Tijjani Reijnders, who was named after Nigerian football legend Tijani Babangida, as a transfer target and are preparing a bid of nearly £41.3 million to sign the player in the upcoming winter window.
Reijnders’ parents, inspired by Babangida’s exploits at Ajax Amsterdam, named their son “Tijjani” at birth. The Dutch midfielder has lived up to the footballing pedigree of his namesake.
With three goals and two assists in 14 Serie A games this season, the Netherlands international and former AZ Alkmaar star is having a remarkable season at the San Siro.
According to FootballFanCast, Man City manager Pep Guardiola is keen to add the 27-year-old to his squad, praising his “freshness, balance, and versatility” in midfield. Guardiola reportedly believes Reijnders would be a valuable addition to bolster the team.
In an attempt to convince Reijnders to leave Milan for Manchester, Man City are getting ready to make an offer near €50 million (£41.3m).
The Rossoneri, however, are working to extend Reijnders’ contract to secure his future at the San Siro, potentially complicating City’s pursuit.
Meanwhile, Man City’s poor form continued with a 2-1 derby loss to Manchester United.
The defending champions have won just one of their last 12 matches in all competitions and trail Premier League leaders Liverpool, who have a game in hand, by nine points.
