Rennes manager drops damning Jeremy Doku transfer hint as Manchester City make fresh verbal offer

Manchester City are advancing in their pursuit of Belgian forward Jeremy Doku amid rivalled interest from West Ham United.

Pep Guardiola is looking to replace Riyad Mahrez at Manchester City during the remaining days of the summer transfer window after the Algerian left the Etihad Stadium to sign for Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli.

Bradley Barcola, Michael Olise and Jeremy Doku have all been linked with the treble-winners, with Manchester City widely reported to be targeting the signing of Rennes star Doku.

The 21-year-old, who scored seven goals and registered four assists in 35 appearances last season, was absent from the Rennes squad for their 1-1 draw against Lens on Sunday, despite netting during a 5-1 win over Metz last weekend.

West Ham are rivalling Manchester City for the signing of the Belgium international, with the Hammers having submitted a bid for the player in the hope that regular football will tempt the forward to move to the London Stadium.

Rennes manager Bruno Genesio hinted on Sunday that Doku could be set to move to the Premier League, saying: “If he didn’t start when he was our best player last week, I’ll let you draw the conclusions. Nothing has been done, however.”

Fabrizio Romano reports that Manchester City are advancing with a deal to sign the 21-year-old after offering a new verbal proposal close to €55/€60 million, and are hopeful of agreeing a deal this week, despite West Ham’s interest.

Doku gave the green light to a transfer at the start of the month, and there is hope that the two clubs can come to an agreement.

Jacob Steinburg claims that Rennes have placed a £47 million price tag on the winger, with West Ham interested in signing both Doku and Ajax’s Mohammed Kudus after receiving a £105 million fee for Declan Rice.

Doku could be one of two arrivals at the Etihad Stadium before the close of the transfer window, as Manchester City also look to sign a new midfielder following Kevin De Bruyne’s hamstring injury and the exit of Ilkay Gundogan earlier this summer.

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