Atletico Madrid Expresses Interest in Manchester City's Tijjani Reijnders Amid Uncertain Sale Prospects

Atletico Madrid has shown an interest in Tijjani Reijnders, the midfielder from Manchester City, as the summer transfer window approaches. The 27-year-old joined City from AC Milan last year for a fee of £46.5 million and signed a contract that extends until 2030.

Reijnders made an impressive debut at the Etihad Stadium, scoring a goal and providing an assist in his first match against Wolves, which established him as a key player early in the season. However, his playing time diminished after the New Year, as he started only nine of his last 20 league games under former manager Pep Guardiola.

Atletico Madrid's interest comes at a time when the club is planning a major midfield revamp ahead of the 2026-27 season. They have already secured a deal with Wolves for Joao Gomes, with an official announcement expected soon. Reijnders has also attracted attention from other clubs this season, including Arsenal and Juventus, indicating his growing appeal in the transfer market.

According to Sky Sports reporter Lyall Thomas, the Spanish club is aware that negotiating a deal for Reijnders will be challenging, given his long-term contract with City and the fact that new manager Enzo Maresca has yet to evaluate his squad comprehensively. The determination of Reijnders' future may depend on Maresca's assessment, which will ultimately shape City's response to interested clubs.

Despite finishing the season with seven goals and eight assists across 47 matches, Reijnders saw his role diminish as Guardiola's tenure ended. Guardiola previously highlighted the midfielder's box-to-box capabilities, emphasizing his value when given consistent playtime. Whether Maresca sees him as a pivotal player or a potential transfer asset will significantly influence City’s strategy this summer.

With four years remaining on his contract and a hefty transfer fee paid just a year ago, Manchester City holds substantial negotiating power. Atletico Madrid will need to present a convincing offer if they wish to persuade City’s director of football, Hugo Viana, to consider a sale during this rebuilding phase.