Reijnders, 26, arrives at the Etihad for an initial fee of €55 million ($63 million), becoming the third major signing for City during the special June 1–10 transfer window. The temporary window was introduced to give the 32 participating clubs an opportunity to fine-tune their rosters in preparation for the inaugural expanded Club World Cup, which begins Saturday.
The Dutchman joins France’s Rayan Cherki, who was brought in from Lyon for $41 million, and Algeria international Rayan Aït-Nouri, secured from Wolves for $42 million, in a revamped midfield and defensive setup. The trio’s combined price tag mirrors the valuation of Germany star Florian Wirtz, whom City reportedly considered before Liverpool emerged as his likely destination.
Despite opting out of the Wirtz race, City’s investment remains substantial. With more than $200 million already spent during the winter window, the club’s total outlay for 2025 has now surpassed $350 million — a clear signal of ambition from a team determined to reclaim the Premier League crown from Liverpool and make a mark on the international stage.
Reijnders arrives in Manchester after a standout season with Milan, during which he was named Serie A’s best midfielder. He notched 15 goals and five assists in a campaign that saw him emerge as one of Europe’s most dynamic ball-carrying midfielders — even as Milan stumbled to a disappointing finish, missing out on European qualification.
Originally signed from AZ Alkmaar in 2023 for around €20 million, Reijnders quickly became a central figure in Milan’s midfield and had only recently extended his contract until 2030. That same long-term commitment has now been replicated at City, signaling the club’s belief in his continued growth.
The transfer also comes as City prepares to turn a new page in midfield, with club legend Kevin De Bruyne set to end his decade-long spell at the Etihad. Reijnders and Cherki are expected to partner with Rodri in a refreshed midfield core designed to blend youth, energy, and technical precision.
Speaking on his move, Reijnders expressed both pride and excitement: “It is also a dream come true to play in the Premier League. This league has seen many of the best Dutch players perform through the years and it’s an inspiration to follow in their footsteps.”
City’s director of football, Hugo Viana, hailed the midfielder’s arrival, describing him as a player who brings “extra energy, composure, and creativity” to Guardiola’s evolving squad.
Although the club formally announced the transfer just after the special window closed, all indications are that the deal was completed in time to register Reijnders for the Club World Cup. City has been drawn into a competitive group featuring Juventus, Al Ain, and Wydad Casablanca, with their first match set for June 18.
With fresh talent, renewed ambition, and global silverware in sight, Manchester City appears ready to embark on the next phase of its modern footballing journey.