Sources: Man City open preliminary talks to sign Jeremy Doku
Man City have opened preliminary talks over signing Rennes winger Jeremy Doku, sources have told Football Insider.
The Premier League champions are working on a deal for the 21-year-old as they look to replace Riyad Mahrez in the right-sided attacking role.
City also shortlisted Crystal Palace star Michael Olise – as first revealed by Football Insider on 25 July – but he has now agreed terms with Chelsea and they are putting the finishing touches to a £35million deal.
Doku is rated as a wide forward of huge potential by City and he is said to have excited their scouts and recruitment team with his ability to open up defences.
Early discussions are underway over a potential deal for the Belgium international, with City also in pursuit of West Ham playmaker Lucas Paqueta.
Football Insider revealed on Tuesday (15 August) that Pep Guardiola’s side are set to submit a £80million-plus bid for Paqueta, who has already agreed personal terms ahead of a move to the Etihad Stadium.
The treble-winners have already completed deals for Josko Gvardiol and Mateo Kovacic this summer.
But City are yet to replace key man Mahrez following his mega-money Al-Hilal move earlier in the window.
Doku, like the Algeria international, plays on the right flank for Stade Rennais and has proved an exciting talent since making his breakthrough.
The Belgium international notched seven goals and four assists in 35 club appearances last term and has already opened his account in the new season.
He is also an established feature in the senior Belgium side after bursting onto the scene before the Euro 2020 tournament.
Man City are in UEFA Super Cup action against Sevilla on Wednesday (16 August) ahead of a Premier League clash with Newcastle on Saturday (19 August).
In other news, Man United open preliminary signing talks – but there’s a Man City twist.