Real Madrid, Man City to battle it out for €25 million-rated Ligue 1 defensive gem | OneFootball

The rise of Abdukodir Khusanov has been one of the best stories in Ligue 1 this season.

Hailing from the town of Tashkent in Uzbekistan, the young centre-back has impressed onlookers with his consistent performances at RC Lens.

The 20-year-old’s rapid breakthrough at Lens has led to many considering him as one of the best defensive prodigies in Europe.

However, it appears Lens are facing immense pressure to part ways with Khusanov, mainly due to the stress in their balance sheet.

Real Madrid interested in Khusanov

According to Foot Mercato, Abdukodir Khusanov should have no shortage of suitors either, with multiple top European clubs interested in his services.

One of these clubs are Real Madrid, who are keeping close tabs on the defender’s progress in Ligue 1 and could be tempted to make a move.

The next big thing in Uzbek football? (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Aside from Madrid, Manchester City, too, are interested in the Uzbeki defensive stalwart and have already made contacts surrounding a potential move to the Etihad.

Real Madrid, though, are not likely to back down easily. The reigning European champions, after all, are desperately looking for reinforcements in the defensive unit in light of an ongoing injury crisis.

Lens, for their part, could be willing to part ways with Khusanov for a fee of around €25 million, which could help bag a significant profit, considering they signed the player for just €100,000 in 2023.

Lens’ initial plan was to give Khusanov a chance to perform at the highest stage and sell him for a quick buck, especially given the club’s economic condition.

On the flip side, though, Khusanov is more than happy at Lens and is ready to continue at the club for a few more months.

The future of the Uzbek, therefore, could be one of the great conversations in this ongoing January transfer window.