Manchester City have completed the signing of Uzbekistan defender Abdukodir Khusanov from French club Lens on a four-and-a-half-year deal until 2029, for a reported fee of £33.6 million plus add-ons.
Khusanov, who joined Lens for just £84,000 from Belarusian side Energetik-BGU 18 months ago, has rapidly developed into a standout talent. He made 16 appearances for Lens this season and scored his first goal for the club during a French Cup tie against Paris Saint-Germain in December.
With 18 caps for Uzbekistan, Khusanov is set to become the first player from his country to feature in the Premier League.
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Expressing his excitement about the move, Khusanov said, “This squad is full of the best players in the world, and I can’t wait to meet them and play alongside them. And of course, Pep Guardiola is one of the greatest coaches ever. I am so excited to learn from him and improve my game even more.”
Manchester City’s director of football, Txiki Begiristain, praised the young defender, describing him as “very intelligent, strong, aggressive, and extremely quick.”
The move comes as City look to strengthen their squad following a challenging run of results that has left them fourth in the Premier League, 12 points behind leaders Liverpool.
Pep Guardiola’s side showed their attacking prowess with a 6-0 victory over Ipswich Town in their last Premier League match. On Wednesday, City travel to the French capital to face PSG in the Champions League – needing a win to boost their chances of reaching the knockout stage.
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