Tottenham gazumped as Man City open talks for signing of ‘one of the best’ around

Manchester City have initiated discussions regarding the potential signing of highly-rated centre-back Abdukodir Khusanov, a move that positions Pep Guardiola’s side ahead of Tottenham Hotspur in the race for the promising defender.

Despite interest from multiple clubs, City appear to have taken the lead in negotiations, with both player and club talks underway.

Tottenham, under the guidance of Ange Postecoglou, have set their sights on a busy January transfer window as they look to address weaknesses in their squad. The North London side has prioritized strengthening positions such as goalkeeper, centre-back, wings, and striker.

This determination to improve has already seen Tottenham secure the services of goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky from Slavia Prague for over £10 million. The 21-year-old will challenge Guglielmo Vicario for the starting role.

As part of their efforts to bolster the defense, Tottenham identified Abdukodir Khusanov as a prime target. The 20-year-old centre-back, currently shining in Ligue 1 with Lens, has drawn widespread praise for his exceptional performances.

If Spurs were to sign him, he would make history as the first player from Uzbekistan to play in the Premier League. However, City’s proactive approach has made their interest more concrete.

Renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed that Manchester City have added Khusanov to their January transfer shortlist. According to Romano, City are well-informed about the defender’s abilities and are actively engaging in negotiations.

Talks are reportedly progressing on two fronts—between City and Lens, and with Khusanov’s camp directly. This dual approach demonstrates City’s commitment to securing the young defender amid competition from other top clubs.

Lens, on their part, are reluctant to part with Khusanov mid-season. With a contract running until 2027, the club views him as a cornerstone of their current campaign under manager Will Still.

Despite this, sporting director Diego Lopez has indicated that Lens would consider a sale if their valuation, believed to be around £25 million, is met. This openness to negotiation creates a window of opportunity for City to finalize the transfer.

Khusanov’s situation has become a focal point in the January transfer market, with Lens balancing the desire to retain their defensive linchpin against the potential financial benefits of a sale.

TEAMtalk reports suggest that while Lens’ coaching staff aim to keep Khusanov until summer, the sporting director may prioritize securing funds for other transfer targets, making a January move feasible.

Meanwhile, Tottenham’s transfer strategy has also included evaluating other defensive options. One such opportunity involved former Everton defender Ben Godfrey, currently at Atalanta.

Despite being offered the chance to sign him on loan, Spurs opted not to pursue the deal. Godfrey is now expected to join Ipswich Town on a six-month loan, indicating Tottenham’s focus on alternative targets.

In contrast, Manchester City have been linked to other transfer rumors, including reports of interest in Eintracht Frankfurt striker Omar Marmoush. However, these claims have been dismissed by Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, who confirmed that no negotiations or offers have taken place between the clubs.

Eintracht Frankfurt has not received any indication from Marmoush regarding a potential move, further emphasizing City’s prioritization of Khusanov in this transfer window.

As the January window progresses, Khusanov’s future remains a key storyline. Both Manchester City and Tottenham see him as a potential game-changer for their respective defenses.

While Lens hold a strong negotiating position with the player under long-term contract, the interest from top clubs and their willingness to meet the £25 million price tag could sway the balance.

For City, Khusanov represents an opportunity to further solidify their defensive depth with a player widely regarded as one of the brightest young talents in football. Their proactive approach to discussions signals their intent to stay ahead of rivals like Tottenham in this competitive market.

Meanwhile, Tottenham’s broader strategy of squad reinforcement under Postecoglou reflects their determination to climb out of their current struggles and return to form.

The outcome of these negotiations could shape the future for both clubs and the player himself, as the Premier League continues to attract some of the brightest talents from around the world.

Whether Khusanov ends up at the Etihad or elsewhere, his potential to make a significant impact is undeniable, making this a transfer battle worth watching.