Manchester City has taken a significant step in the January transfer window, securing a £35 million deal for highly-rated Uzbek centre-back, Khusanov. This deal marks the biggest of the winter window so far and also sees City make Premier League history by signing the first-ever player from Uzbekistan to join the top-flight. Khusanov, who has impressed with Ligue 1 side Lens, has agreed to a four-and-a-half-year contract, with an additional year option.
Lens manager, Will Still, confirmed that negotiations for Khusanov’s move were progressing, though he noted the player was unwell, missing a training session. However, Still remains optimistic about the deal’s completion. “We know that there are negotiations in progress, things are moving,” Still said. Khusanov’s move to Manchester City represents not only a significant milestone for the player but also for Uzbek football as a whole, with Khusanov set to become a pioneer in England’s top league.
Khusanov’s Impressive Form for Lens Boosts Man City’s Defensive Options
Khusanov’s rise to prominence has been swift, and his performance in the heart of the defense for Lens has been nothing short of impressive. Since joining the French club in 2023, he has become a key figure in their defense, helping the team maintain the second-best defensive record in Ligue 1, with only Paris Saint-Germain conceding fewer goals. In 16 league appearances this season, Khusanov has contributed to seven clean sheets, showcasing his ability to command the backline.
The 20-year-old’s contributions have not gone unnoticed, as he was included in the rankings for the top 200 most promising young footballers, coming in at 15th place for defenders. His impressive form in Ligue 1, along with his Champions League experience and 18 international caps for Uzbekistan, made him an attractive prospect for Manchester City. His arrival will bolster Pep Guardiola’s defense and offer much-needed depth to the squad as the club looks to challenge on multiple fronts this season.
Man City Target Two More Signings to Strengthen Squad
While Khusanov’s deal represents a strong start to the window, Manchester City is not stopping there. Reports suggest that the club is working on additional signings, with potential moves for Palmeiras’ highly-rated 18-year-old defender, Vitor Reis, and Eintracht Frankfurt’s in-form striker, Omar Marmoush. City’s focus is on strengthening their squad after a challenging first half of the season, with Guardiola looking to inject fresh energy and increase competition across the team.
Reis, who has garnered significant attention for his performances in Brazil, is seen as one for the future, while Marmoush, who has been in sensational form in Germany, could offer immediate impact. The Egyptian forward has netted 18 goals in 24 appearances this season and has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs, including Liverpool and Arsenal. However, Manchester City appears to be leading the race, with a potential £50 million deal on the table.
Omar Marmoush: A £50 Million Move in the Making?
Omar Marmoush’s potential £50 million move to Manchester City has generated significant excitement, with the 25-year-old forward being one of the standout performers in the Bundesliga this season. Frankfurt, however, are reportedly reluctant to sell the player, especially in the middle of the season. Despite this, City is keen to secure Marmoush’s signature, with the versatile attacker capable of playing anywhere across the frontline or in a deeper attacking role.
Marmoush’s impressive tally of 18 goals and 24 appearances this season makes him a valuable asset, and his ability to provide depth and flexibility to Manchester City’s attacking options is seen as crucial. While other Premier League clubs such as Liverpool and Arsenal have shown interest, City’s willingness to meet Frankfurt’s asking price could give them the edge in securing the player’s signature. As the January window heats up, the Marmoush deal could be another major transfer for City, following Khusanov’s arrival.
Future Targets and Guardiola’s Ambitions
Alongside the signing of Khusanov, Manchester City is also in talks with Brazilian club Palmeiras for teenage defender Vitor Reis. However, Palmeiras’ president has refuted claims that they are eager to part ways with the highly-rated 18-year-old, suggesting that reports about the club’s willingness to sell are inaccurate. Additionally, City is reportedly interested in Egypt forward Omar Marmoush, who has impressed at Eintracht Frankfurt this season.
The signing of Khusanov, coupled with ongoing negotiations for other players, underscores Guardiola’s determination to reverse City’s fortunes in the second half of the season. This marks the club’s first significant signing in January since the arrival of Aymeric Laporte in 2018. With an eye on both domestic and European competitions, City’s management is keen to ensure they are equipped to compete on all fronts, particularly as they look to recover from their current 12-point deficit in the Premier League.
