Author: Soorya G
Manchester City have successfully finalized the acquisition of Belgian winger Jérémy Doku on a lucrative five-year contract, as confirmed by the Premier League champions on Thursday. This marks the integration of Doku as the three-time champions’ third summer signing, replacing Algerian winger Riyad Mahrez, who completed a surprise move to Saudi Arabian side Al Ahli at the start of the season, joining forces with the likes of Roberto Firmino and Allan Saint-Maximin.
City’s proactive negotiations in the summer saw them secure the services of Chelsea midfielder Mateo Kovacic and RB Leipzig defender Josko Gvardiol.
After moving from Anderlecht in 2020, Doku scored 12 goals in 91 appearances for Rennes. With 14 caps for Belgium, where he scored twice, Doku was also an important presence in the Belgian team during the 2022 World Cup.
Despite the imminent conclusion of the summer transfer window, the transfer market activity of the league champions is not yet complete. The club recently witnessed the departure of defender Aymeric Laporte to Al Nassr, while João Cancelo’s transfer to Barcelona is also in the works. In addition, City are looking for a replacement for midfielder Kevin De Bruyne, who has undergone hamstring surgery, putting him out of action until the new year.
City’s interest in West Ham United’s Lucas Paquetá has been terminated as a result of an official betting investigation involving the Brazil international. However, City are looking at other possible targets. Sources reveal that City remain hopeful of reaching a consensus with Wolverhampton Wanderers over Matheus Nunes, with the club expressing willingness for a second offer. However, City are willing to withdraw from the negotiating table if an agreement cannot be reached on the Portuguese player’s valuation.
Although City have secured wins in the opening two games of their title defense, they will be without manager Pep Guardiola until after the September international break due to his recent back surgery in Barcelona.