Latest developments
- Manchester City are in advanced talks to sign Abdukodir Khusanov.
- Pep Guardiola has already given his nod to the transfer.
- The centre-back has also agreed personal terms with City.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (4.5/5): Here we go… almost here!
Manchester City are edging closer to securing the services of RC Lens central defender Abdukodir Khusanov. Pep Guardiola is understood to be completely on board with the potential transfer and the Uzbek has already agreed personal terms to join the City project.
?? Manchester City are closing in on Abdukodir Khusanov deal! Pep Guardiola also gave his own green light.
As exclusively revealed 10 days ago, he’s the main target and the agreement with RC Lens is at final stages now.
Khusanov agreed personal terms as he wants the move. ?? pic.twitter.com/NuFFbYp6Bt
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 10, 2025
The major claim comes from top transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, who appears very close to giving his trademark, ‘Here we go!' to this move.
Value (3.5/5): Exact numbers involved remain unclear
Our previous report on the centre-back, who has been on Tottenham Hotspur's radar as well, revealed that Lens value their prodigy at around £25 million.
Romano doesn't provide any exact figures but if City are getting the highly-rated player for a similar fee, it's certainly not an eyebrow-raising commitment.
Suitability (4/5): Immense potential
Guardiola could get a player who is still raw but has immense potential to become a regular starter in his 4-3-3. The 6'1” centre-back is ready for the Premier League's physicality but the Spanish tactician may need to work on his on-ball abilities to ensure he fits seamlessly in his possession-based system.
Upgrade? (4.5/5): Good option to strengthen squad
It is too early to compare the 2024-born talent with current City defenders but his addition is certainly going to improve Guardiola's defensive options. The City defence have looked shaky all season and could do with a resilient centre-back like Khusanov.
Logic (3.5/5): Challenging move
Romano has added that Khusanov wants the move. This suggests the young defender believes in his talent and is ready to accept the huge task of playing for one of the biggest clubs in Europe. However, City's current form could intensify pressure on him to perform from the get-go.
Whisper+ verdict: 20/25
Romano's near-stamp of approval on the deal means this move is likely to get over the line sooner rather than later! Whether City's search for defensive reinforcements would stop at Khusanov is a question for another day!
