Manchester City are stepping up their search for France’s most exciting young forward, with Futmercato reporting that the Premier League champions are keen to sign Troyes striker Matthijs Detourbet.
The 18-year-old is quickly emerging as a coveted talent across Europe, attracting interest from City as well as Roma, Monaco and several Bundesliga clubs.
Detourve’s rise has been closely tracked by scouts this season, with the teenage striker impressing through his movement, composure in front of goal and physical maturity beyond his years.
Despite his age, he has already shown the ability to compete against senior opponents, prompting the club to act early to secure his long-term future before his value increases further.
Man City are in a battle with Roma to sign Detourve
Rome has already made its intentions clear. The Serie A side reportedly offered 8 million euros and an additional 2 million euros, but Troyes rejected the offer.
Roma remained undeterred after that and began further talks in an attempt to overcome the growing competition.
Italian sources say Roma see Detourve as a long-term attacking project and could follow a development path similar to other young forwards in Serie A.
However, Man City appear to have a huge advantage in this race at the moment.
Detourbet has already visited City’s facilities, showing how advanced their interest is.
Importantly, Troyes is part of the City Football Group (CFG). This group includes Man City, Girona, Palermo and several other clubs around the world.
City have advantage with signing French attacker
This existing relationship could prove decisive, allowing City to develop a clear development plan for the player while structuring a deal that benefits all parties.
City’s recruitment strategy in recent years has focused on identifying young elite talent early, often integrating them gradually through loans and CFG affiliated clubs before deciding on long-term roles.
For now, Troyes remain steadfast in their valuation, aware that interest from several elite clubs strengthens their negotiating position.
However, with Man City already laying the foundations and leveraging their links with CFG, the balance appears to be tilting in their favor.
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