There has been a flurry of conflicting reports surrounding the future of Manchester City forward Jeremy Doku, with some outlets in Spain claiming the Belgian has “offered himself” to Barcelona for a potential loan move.
Doku, who joined Manchester City in August 2023 for £55.5 million from Rennes, has seen his role at the Etihad fluctuate under Pep Guardiola. Despite a promising start to his City career, registering seven goals and eight assists in 45 matches during his debut season, Doku has faced challenges in securing a regular starting spot this term.
This season, Doku has contributed six goals and seven assists in 22 appearances, but has found himself sidelined for three consecutive Premier League games. His frustration has grown, especially after he was left out in key fixtures, but he made a strong return to the lineup during City’s dominant win over Ipswich Town, finding the back of the net in the process. However, just as Doku seemed to be finding his rhythm, he picked up another injury, with Guardiola admitting the winger could be out for some time.
In a surprising twist, Catalan outlet Sport reported that Doku had “offered himself” to Barcelona on loan for the remainder of the season, possibly as an alternative to Manchester United target Marcus Rashford. The 22-year-old winger is said to be looking for more playing time to regain his confidence, but this report has been met with skepticism. Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri quickly debunked the rumors, stating on social media that Doku’s agent had formally denied the claim, insisting that the forward had not offered himself to Barcelona.
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According to Tavolieri’s clarification, Doku is focused on getting back to full fitness and making an impact at Manchester City, not pursuing a loan move to Barcelona. This statement casts doubt on the initial reports from the Spanish press, which now appear to be inaccurate. Doku’s priority seems to be continuing his development with City, where he hopes to make a difference once he recovers from his injury and earn a consistent spot in the first team.
As it stands, Doku remains a valuable asset for Manchester City, who are in need of his pace and directness as they aim to catch up in the Premier League and advance in European competitions. Guardiola’s side currently sit fourth in the Premier League, trailing leaders Liverpool by 12 points, but with a game in hand. Additionally, City must win their upcoming Champions League clash against Club Brugge to secure their place in the knockout stages.
In other news, Manchester City are reportedly looking at their own transfer market moves. Bayer Leverkusen has shown interest in City’s young playmaker, James McAtee, approaching the club for a potential loan deal with an option to buy in the summer. However, with six players already out on loan, City may need to recall one of them to make space for McAtee’s temporary move, but City are willing to keep the player as per Sky Sports. As for incoming transfers, Manchester City are reportedly targeting Sandro Tonali from Newcastle United, with competition expected from Real Madrid for the talented midfielder’s signature this summer.
