Agent of Manchester City summer signing reveals Kevin De Bruyne impact on transfer decision

The agent of Jeremy Doku has revealed his pride at the 21-year-olds recent move to Manchester City, and detailed the impact of Kevin De Bruyne.

Doku became Manchester City’s third signing of the summer transfer window on Thursday, completing a £55.4 million move from Stade Rennais in France’s Ligue 1.

The 21-year-old replaces Riyad Mahrez at the Etihad Stadium, after the Algerian international moved to Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli for £30 million, ending a memorable five-year stay at Manchester City.

Doku, who was subject to late rivalled interest from West Ham, Tottenham and Chelsea, was directly involved in 11 goals in 35 appearances for Rennes last season.

The Belgium international could make his Manchester City debut on Sunday, when the Sky Blues travel to Bramall Lane to face Sheffield United.

Manchester City, who will be managed by Juanma Lillo in Yorkshire after Pep Guardiola underwent emergency surgery in midweek, are looking to extend their winning start to the season against the newly-promoted Blades this weekend.

The treble-winners are searching for a third successive Premier League victory after registering consecutive wins against Burnley and Newcastle United.

Manchester City’s latest recruit could feature on Sunday, and following the 21-year-olds arrival in East Manchester, Jefferson Doku, the brother and agent of the forward, has discussed his client’s move to the reigning Premier League and European champions.

“A wonderful moment. We are all very proud of him. Our youngest sister may be called Chelsea, but Manchester City really was the absolute dream destination for Jeremy,” he told local newspaper Gazet van Antwerpen.

“This club won everything last year, didn’t it? You can’t say no to that, can you? Jeremy had already spoke with Pep Guardiola and Kevin De Bruyne before completing his transfer. They also played a major role in his choice for Manchester City.”

De Bruyne, who has played alongside Doku for Belgium, is sidelined until the new year after suffering a hamstring injury during the opening day win over Burnley at Turf Moor.

The forward will also have to wait until after the September international break to meet Guardiola, as the 52-year-old recovers from a back operation in Barcelona.