Manchester City are set to make their first significant move of the January transfer window, with Lens defender Abdukodir Khusanov reportedly on the verge of joining the Premier League champions in a deal worth up to €50 million.
Sky Germany’s Patrick Berger reports that City have submitted a bid of £41.8 million for the highly-rated Uzbekistan international, who has expressed keen interest in making the switch to the Etihad Stadium. The potential transfer marks a rapid ascent for the 20-year-old center-back, who only joined Lens from Belarusian side Energetik-BGU in 2023.
Pep Guardiola’s pursuit of defensive reinforcements comes amid an injury crisis that has depleted his backline options, with key figures Ruben Dias, Nathan Ake, John Stones, and Manuel Akanji all facing spells on the sidelines this season. The Spanish manager has been vocal about the need for January additions, stating that City “have to” strengthen during the current window.
Khusanov’s potential arrival could provide much-needed depth to City’s defensive roster. Standing at 6ft 1in, the young defender has already accumulated impressive experience despite his age, earning 18 caps for Uzbekistan and making 31 appearances for Lens since his arrival in French football.
The timing of the move reflects both City’s immediate needs and their strategic approach to recruitment. Despite Khusanov’s relatively brief tenure in Ligue 1, his performances have caught the attention of City’s scouting network, suggesting the club sees significant potential for development under Guardiola’s guidance.
The proposed transfer fee represents a substantial investment in a player who remains relatively unknown to Premier League audiences, but it aligns with City’s pattern of identifying and securing promising talent before they reach peak market value. The club’s recruitment strategy has consistently focused on combining established stars with emerging prospects capable of adapting to Guardiola’s demanding tactical system.
Reports indicate that City’s January business may not end with Khusanov, as the club has also expressed interest in Eintracht Frankfurt forward Omar Marmoush. This suggests a comprehensive approach to strengthening the squad as they pursue multiple titles this season.
For Lens, while losing Khusanov would represent a significant departure, the substantial transfer fee could provide resources for reinvestment in their squad. The French club has built a reputation for developing talent and securing profitable transfers, and this deal would continue that trend.
The defender could potentially make his final appearance for Lens in their upcoming Ligue 1 fixture against Le Havre this Sunday, though the timing of the transfer’s completion may affect his availability. Should the deal proceed as reported, it would mark another significant milestone in Khusanov’s meteoric rise from Belarusian football to one of Europe’s elite clubs.
City’s move for Khusanov demonstrates their proactive approach to addressing squad needs, while also highlighting their continued focus on securing young talent capable of contributing both immediately and in the long term. As Guardiola’s side continues to compete on multiple fronts, the addition of defensive reinforcements could prove crucial in maintaining their pursuit of domestic and European success.
The swift progression of negotiations suggests City’s determination to conclude their business efficiently during the January window, potentially allowing time for additional reinforcements should suitable opportunities arise. With the transfer window still in its early stages, this move could set the tone for further activity across the Premier League.
