Manchester City ‘in pole position’ to sign teen sensation
Manchester City are leading the race to sign Troyes talent Mathys Detourbet, as several other clubs across Europe weigh up their own moves.
Detourbet was reportedly given a tour of Manchester City’s training facilities last month, as transfer chiefs attempt to buy themselves a boost in the race.
The 18-year-old has featured heavily in Ligue 2 this season, but would likely be one for the future as Pep Guardiola‘s team continues to grow in quality.
Manchester City are expected to complete a deal for Antoine Semenyo, with the winger’s release clause to be met in the coming days.
Semenyo played for Bournemouth against Arsenal on Saturday, but it is expected that he will now complete his move to the Etihad Stadium.
Manchester City already have the advantage in Mathys Detourbet race
Detourbet, from an initial glance, would remind prompt Manchester City fans to instantly think of Rayan Cherki.
Another Frenchman of similar stature, the former Lyon man shares a similar gait to Detourbet and is similarly skilful.
| Rayan Cherki | Premier League 2025-26 |
| Appearances | 14 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Assists | 7 |
| Successful dribbles | 20 |
| Chances created | 28 |
And if the 18-year-old can provide anything like the impact that Cherki has, then Manchester City would be crazy not to sign him.
The midfielder has provided two goals and seven assists in the Premier League so far this season, and is quite simply a joy to watch.
According to L’Equipe, Detourbet is under contract with Troyes until 2028 and has interest from several clubs, including Roma, Monaco, some German clubs and Manchester City.
However, the latter already have a massive advantage in the race. Troyes fall under the ownership of City Football Group – of which Manchester City are the flagship.
Manchester City used similar routine to sign Savinho
The multi-club model of ownership is highly controversial. The perceived smaller clubs of the group will, usually, experience progression due to the increased funds and better loan players, but they will always be a lesser priority.
The likes of Girona and Troyes in Manchester City’s case, or Strasbourg in Chelsea‘s, often serve as a vehicle to develop youth.
The bizarre circumstances that surrounded Savinho‘s eventual transfer to Manchester City exhibited exactly the issues with the arrangement.
The winger was Troyes’ record signing when he arrived from Atletico Mineiro in 2022, but he would never play a game for them. Loans to PSV and Girona followed the move, before Manchester City signed him for a fee undoubtedly below the market rate.