Fabrizio Romano: Man City defender set to sign new contract | OneFootball

Manchester City Secure New Deal for O’Reilly Amid External Interest

Contract agreed for rising midfielder

Manchester City have reached a verbal agreement with Nico O’Reilly over a new contract, according to Fabrizio Romano. The 20-year-old midfielder, long viewed as one of the club’s top academy prospects, will now remain at the Etihad after turning heads across Europe.

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Bayer Leverkusen had two bids rejected, while Premier League clubs also made approaches. City were firm in their stance and opted to secure the player with a new deal. A fresh squad number is also expected to be assigned.

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For Manchester City fans, this news brings reassurance. Nico O’Reilly may not yet be a household name, but those who follow the club’s youth ranks know just how promising he is. The fact that Bayer Leverkusen, a club with a proven record of identifying and developing young talent, pushed hard with two bids speaks volumes. The additional Premier League interest only adds weight to his potential.

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The decision to tie him down suggests City see a future for O’Reilly in the first-team picture, or at the very least, view him as a valuable asset worth investing in. It also shows City’s confidence in their development structure. In the modern football economy, keeping hold of your emerging talents is as important as landing marquee signings.

While there is fierce competition in City’s midfield, having someone like O’Reilly waiting in the wings adds depth, youth and identity. He represents the kind of long-term planning that underpins the club’s dominance. Fans will be hopeful he can follow in the footsteps of Phil Foden and gradually earn his place under Pep Guardiola.

It may seem a small move in a summer filled with major headlines, but it is one that could pay dividends for City in the seasons to come.