Manchester City have agreed a deal to sell midfielder Tijjani Reijnders to Saudi Pro League side Al Qadsiah in a £51 million transfer. The Dutch international, who joined City last summer, will now make the move to the Middle East as Pep Guardiola reshapes his squad ahead of the new Premier League season.
What does this mean for City's midfield?
Reijnders' departure leaves Guardiola with fewer options in central midfield, particularly with Rodri currently sidelined through injury. The Spaniard will need to rely on youngsters like Savinho or explore further transfer targets to bolster his engine room. City finished last season second in the Premier League, seven points behind champions Arsenal, with a record of 23 wins, nine draws and six losses.
Why the Saudi move?
The £51m fee represents a significant profit for City, who signed Reijnders for around £30m just 12 months ago. Saudi clubs have become increasingly active in the transfer market, and Al Qadsiah's offer was too substantial for City to refuse. The move also frees up wage budget for Guardiola to pursue other targets.
What's next for City in the transfer window?
With Reijnders now sold, City are expected to turn their attention to other areas of the squad. Ipswich Town's bid for Leverkusen midfielder Exequiel Palacios was rejected, but Guardiola may look to strengthen his midfield further. The club's recent form has been inconsistent, with just one win in their last five matches, including a 2-1 loss to Aston Villa in their final game of last season.
