Manchester City Ready to Launch £87m Double Transfer Raid on AC Milan – Journalist | OneFootball

Man City Plot Ambitious Double Raid on AC Milan: Reijnders and Hernandez in Sights

In what promises to be a blockbuster summer at the Etihad, Manchester City are reportedly preparing to open talks with AC Milan over the potential signing of two key players – Tijjani Reijnders and Theo Hernandez – in a deal that could reshape both clubs’ trajectories. The story, originally reported by Rudy Galetti via TEAMtalk, outlines City’s intention to negotiate a package deal for the pair, with the aim of reducing the overall cost below the combined valuation of €100m.

Guardiola’s Next Evolution

With Kevin De Bruyne confirming his departure and uncertainty surrounding other midfielders like Ilkay Gundogan, City are entering a new cycle. Pep Guardiola, always one to evolve rather than rest on past glories, is looking to refresh his squad with proven talent who can deliver both quality and tactical flexibility.

Photo IMAGO

“TEAMtalk can exclusively reveal that Man City are plotting the double signing of Milan duo Tijjani Reijnders and Theo Hernandez this summer, with Guardiola keen to strengthen in central midfield and at left-back.”

This quote encapsulates City’s strategy: targeted reinforcements in critical areas. Hernandez fills a long-standing need at left-back, while Reijnders – capable of operating as a 6, 8 or 10 – provides the kind of versatility Guardiola prizes.

Milan’s Financial Pressures and Contract Dilemmas

According to Galetti’s report, Milan may be forced into the negotiating room regardless of their preferences. Currently languishing in ninth in Serie A and facing the prospect of missing out on Champions League football, the Rossoneri are under pressure to sell.

“Milan are under pressure to generate funds from player sales this summer, especially if they fail to qualify for the Champions League.”

Reijnders, under contract until 2030, puts Milan in a stronger position to hold firm. However, Hernandez’s situation is more precarious – his contract runs until 2026, and crucially, he is refusing to extend. That makes the Frenchman more attainable, especially given the modest €30m valuation.

“Hernandez’s deal expires in 2026 and he has no intention of signing an extension… so the Italian club must sell soon to avoid losing him for a cut-price fee.”

Tactical Fit and Squad Balance

Reijnders has registered nine goals and four assists in Serie A this season, a testament to his growing influence. His ability to function in multiple roles could help mitigate the loss of De Bruyne, easing City’s transition while also providing depth during a demanding campaign.

Reijnders’ place at the top of City’s midfield shortlist reflects the club’s confidence in his profile. “Reijnders is at the very top of City’s midfield shortlist as new sporting director Hugo Viana prepares for a busy first transfer window at the Etihad.”

Theo Hernandez, meanwhile, offers dynamism down the flank, strong defensive fundamentals, and elite-level experience. Guardiola has rotated at left-back for several seasons, but a long-term solution like Hernandez could finally offer consistency and attacking thrust from deep.

City will need to fend off Real Madrid for his signature, but their serious interest indicates how highly the player is rated. “City are prepared to rival [Real Madrid] for his signature.”

Photo: IMAGO

Financial Strategy and Transfer Negotiation

There’s a calculated element to City’s move, combining both players in a single transaction to leverage a better deal. It’s an approach that shows the influence of new sporting director Hugo Viana, who’s preparing for his first summer window with the club.

“Sources state that City believe they can get a ‘discount’ on the overall package by combining the two deals.”

While Milan remain reluctant to part with both stars, a suitably enticing offer could turn heads in Lombardy. This could be one of the defining stories of the transfer window.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis:

From a Manchester City supporter’s perspective, this feels like a bold, exciting – and frankly, necessary – step.

Tijjani Reijnders looks like a tailor-made Guardiola midfielder. Technically secure, tactically intelligent, and physically resilient, he offers immediate value while still possessing room to grow. With De Bruyne leaving, and Bernardo Silva’s future uncertain, Reijnders’ ability to play multiple midfield roles is pure gold. He wouldn’t just be cover – he’d compete for a starting spot.

Theo Hernandez? That’s a statement. A marauding left-back with elite experience, proven in both Serie A and international football, and still in his prime. For years, City fans have waited for a consistent, explosive presence on the left – think of the gaps filled by makeshift full-backs or midfielders slotted into defence. This would change that narrative.

The cherry on top? The combined fee. If City manage to secure both for under €100m, it’s not just smart recruitment – it’s ruthless efficiency.

If this is Hugo Viana’s first big swing, fans will be expecting it to land. Big names leaving is always unsettling – but moves like this show City aren’t just reacting, they’re planning the next chapter.