Atletico Madrid are reportedly exploring a potential move for Manchester City midfielder Tijjani Reijnders, though all parties acknowledge the deal would be extremely difficult to complete.
According to Matteo Moretto, Atletico have already made contact with Manchester City to enquire about the Dutch midfielder’s current situation at the club.
The Spanish side are now assessing whether a deal is actually realistic, with an understanding that prising Reijnders away from City would be no straightforward task.
Reports from Spain suggest Atletico are actively searching for midfield reinforcements this summer, with Reijnders among the names being considered for a potential approach.
Reijnders only joined Manchester City from AC Milan in June 2025, putting pen to paper on a five-year contract after City agreed a deal worth around 55 million euros.
At the time, the transfer was viewed as part of City’s midfield rebuild following Kevin De Bruyne’s departure, with the club seeking energy, creativity and technical quality in central areas.
That context makes Atletico’s interest somewhat surprising given Reijnders has barely had a full season to establish himself at the Etihad Stadium.
With several years still remaining on his contract, Manchester City hold a strong negotiating position, meaning any interested party would likely need to produce a serious financial package.
From Atletico’s perspective, the logic behind the pursuit is understandable, as Diego Simeone’s side could benefit from a midfielder capable of carrying the ball and linking play with strong work rate.
Reijnders is considered a modern number eight who can press, arrive in attacking areas, keep tempo high and move effectively through midfield lines.
That particular profile would suit Atletico well, particularly if Simeone is looking to make his side more dynamic and fluid when in possession of the ball.
There is also a significant development on the City side, with Enzo Maresca set to arrive at the Etihad and expected to reassess the squad he inherits in the coming weeks.
Reports have indicated Reijnders could be among the players City might consider allowing to leave, though the club would not be expected to accept a below-market offer.
Unless Reijnders actively pushes for an exit or Maresca decides the midfielder falls outside his plans, Atletico may ultimately find this transfer too difficult to complete.
