Abdukodir Khusanov to Join Manchester City for €40M
Manchester City is close to signing Uzbek defender Abdukodir Khusanov for €40 million, making him Asia's second most expensive player.
Abdukodir Khusanov, the rising Uzbek football talent, is set to make history by becoming the second most expensive Asian player in football history. Manchester City is on the verge of completing a €40 million transfer for the 20-year-old defender from RC Lens, a deal that underscores his rapid ascent in the sport.
Khusanov's meteoric rise began with his move from Belarusian club Energetik-BGU Minsk to RC Lens in 2023 for just €100,000. In less than two years, his consistent performances in Ligue 1 have drawn the attention of elite European clubs, culminating in this potential transfer to the reigning Premier League champions.
Prominent football journalist Fabrizio Romano has confirmed the transfer talks, stating that personal terms between Khusanov and Manchester City have already been agreed upon. The €40 million fee places Khusanov just behind Kim Min-jae, who moved to Bayern Munich for €50 million, in the rankings of Asia's most expensive players. This deal also eclipses the €30 million transfer fee paid by Tottenham Hotspur for Son Heung-min in 2015.
Reports suggest that the total transfer value, including performance-based bonuses, could climb to €50 million, marking a substantial return on investment for RC Lens. Despite making only 31 appearances for the French side, Khusanov's impressive defensive skills have solidified his reputation as one of the brightest young talents in football.
On the international stage, Khusanov has earned 18 caps for the Uzbekistan national team, showcasing his ability to compete at the highest level. At Manchester City, he will have the opportunity to develop further under the guidance of manager Pep Guardiola, renowned for his expertise in nurturing young players.
Khusanov is expected to play his final game for RC Lens against Le Havre before joining Manchester City. Speculation suggests he could make his Premier League debut in an upcoming match against Ipswich Town. Manchester City is keen to finalize the deal swiftly to integrate him into the squad during the January transfer window.
This transfer not only highlights Khusanov's exceptional talent but also reflects the increasing recognition of Asian players in European football. His move to Manchester City is set to inspire a new generation of footballers across Asia and further enhance the global reputation of Uzbek football.