Manchester City’s 2024-25 season has been plagued by injuries, forcing manager Josep Guardiola to continually adapt. Among the setbacks is a season-ending injury to midfield anchor Rodri. With the January transfer window open, Guardiola is eyeing Ligue 1 talent to shore up his struggling squad.
The defensive line is bearing the brunt of City’s injury problems. Kyle Walker, Manuel Akanji and Nathan Ake have been sidelined at various points this season. Guardiola is currently looking for reinforcements, with Ruben Dias and John Stones still absent. As a result, clubs are moving quickly to sign promising centre-backs.
Manchester City are close to signing Abdukkodir Kusanov from RC Lens, according to Fabrizio Romano. The Uzbekistan defender has reportedly agreed to personal terms, with City expected to pay more than $40 million to bring the 20-year-old to the Etihad Stadium.
Kusanov is one of Guardiola’s top targets this winter, with the Spanish manager personally pushing for his signature. Despite his relative youth, the centre-back offers a unique profile compared to City’s current defensive options and is seen as a long-term investment with huge potential.
Guardiola’s goals for January
Kusanov is just part of Manchester City’s ambitious January transfer strategy, with the club reportedly willing to invest up to $140 million in the signing. Guardiola is determined to turn around City’s fortunes and is aiming to improve in several areas.
In addition to Kusanov, City are also reportedly close to signing 18-year-old Brazilian centre-back Vitor Reis from Palmeiras. Although the deal is progressing, Palmeiras are keen to keep the player until after the FIFA Club World Cup, suggesting Reis could be a long-term project for City.
Another target for Guardiola is Eintracht Frankfurt star forward Omar Marmouche. The Egyptian international had a great season, scoring 18 goals and providing 12 assists in just 24 games. Marmouche is said to have agreed to personal terms, but the German club is demanding a hefty $80 million transfer fee for the prolific attacker.
Manager Guardiola was asked about Marmouche at a press conference, but he maintained his customary silence on the transfer issue. “Omar Marmouche to Man City? I can ask you questions, but I will never answer about the transfer. It’s simple. I have no comment,” Guardiola said. Despite the complexities of the deal, City appear determined to strengthen their attacking options.
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