Italian Giants Monitor Tijjani Reijnders as Playing Time Diminishes at Manchester City

AC Milan, Juventus, and Napoli monitor Tijjani Reijnders as his role at Man City diminishes. A loan return to Serie A is being explored for the summer window.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 27, 2026, 3:58 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from YSScores

Declining Minutes Spark Transfer Speculation at the Etihad

The future of Tijjani Reijnders at Manchester City has become a subject of intense debate as the 2025–2026 season approaches its conclusion. Since his high-profile £46.3 million move from AC Milan in June 2025, the Dutch international has struggled to maintain a consistent starting role within Pep Guardiola’s complex tactical system. While he initially enjoyed success—including a debut goal against Wolves and a Carabao Cup victory over Arsenal in March—his recent exclusion from key Premier League and Champions League fixtures has led to questions regarding his long-term fit. Observers at the Etihad have noted that the midfielder’s influence has waned, prompting his representatives to explore potential avenues for a summer exit.

Serie A Trio Evaluates Strategic Loan Opportunities

The prospect of Reijnders returning to the Italian top flight has gained significant momentum, with three of the league’s most prominent clubs registering their interest. AC Milan is reportedly open to a sensational reunion with their former star, viewing him as the ideal profile to add technical depth to their midfield pivot. Simultaneously, Juventus and Napoli are monitoring the situation, with both clubs favoring an initial loan agreement with an option to purchase. For these Italian sides, the acquisition of a player with Reijnders’ European experience and proven Serie A pedigree represents a low-risk, high-reward opportunity to strengthen their squads for the 2026–2027 campaign.

Contractual Stability vs Tactical Fluidity Under Guardiola

Despite the mounting transfer rumors, Manchester City remains in a strong negotiating position due to the five-year contract Reijnders signed upon his arrival, which binds him to the club until June 2030. However, the "Guardiola machine" is known for its high turnover of talent, and reports suggest that the manager may be open to "significant modifications" to the squad this summer. If Reijnders is deemed surplus to requirements for the next building project, City’s hierarchy may choose to facilitate a departure to recoup a portion of their initial investment or to reduce the wage bill. The coming weeks are expected to be decisive in determining whether the club will sanction a temporary move away for the Dutchman.