Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has refused to rule out the possibility of Tijjani Reijnders leaving the club this summer as Nottingham Forest continue their pursuit of the Netherlands international.
Reijnders joined City from AC Milan only last year, but uncertainty over his long-term future has emerged following strong interest from Nottingham Forest, while Galatasaray have also been linked with the midfielder. Reports suggest Forest are exploring a deal worth around £55 million.
When asked whether he expected Reijnders to remain at the Etihad beyond the transfer window, Maresca stopped short of offering any guarantees.
“He’s a player that is here with us.
“The players that are with us until the day that they aren’t with us, it’s my duty to do the best for them. I’m happy with his performance, and he’s been working well since he came back from his holiday. At the moment, I’m very happy with him.”
The comments have intensified speculation over Reijnders’ future, with the 28-year-old reportedly open to joining Nottingham Forest in search of regular first-team football.
Competition for places at Manchester City has increased following the arrival of British-record signing Elliot Anderson, while Rodri is expected to be a key figure in Maresca’s midfield when fully fit. Those factors could limit Reijnders’ opportunities during the new campaign.
Forest believe they can offer the Dutch international a far more prominent role.
With Oliver Glasner rebuilding his squad after replacing Vitor Pereira, Reijnders is viewed as a player capable of becoming the heartbeat of the midfield as Forest aim to improve on last season’s disappointing campaign.
Atletico Madrid had also shown interest earlier in the transfer window but cooled their pursuit after learning City’s asking price. Forest, however, remain in discussions and are believed to be willing to meet a fee close to £55 million, which would allow City to make a profit on the midfielder after signing him from AC Milan for around £47 million last summer.
Despite the ongoing speculation, Reijnders has travelled with Manchester City on their pre-season tour of Asia and recently underlined his quality by scoring and providing an assist in City’s victory over the K-League All-Stars. His display served as a reminder of the talent City could lose if a deal is agreed before the transfer deadline.
Whether Manchester City ultimately sanction a sale could depend on their own transfer activity.
The club are continuing to assess midfield options before making a final decision on Reijnders, while Nottingham Forest remain optimistic they can persuade City to do business before the window closes.
