The catalyst for this sudden surge in interest is the perceived uncertainty surrounding Reijnders’ role at Manchester City following the arrival of Enzo Maresca. The midfielder’s debut campaign at the Etihad was statistically impressive, as he finished the year having made 50 appearances in all competitions while scoring seven goals and providing eight assists.
Despite these healthy numbers, his performance levels notably dipped during the second half of the season, leading to questions about his long-term suitability for the high-intensity demands of the Premier League.
City are currently in the process of a minor squad overhaul, and while several key departures are expected, the midfield remains a point of contention. The possible exits of stalwarts like Bernardo Silva, combined with persistent rumours regarding Rodri’s long-term future, could ironically create a void that Reijnders is capable of filling.
This ambiguity is precisely why clubs like Juventus and Nottingham Forest are circling; they sense an opportunity to strike if Maresca decides that the Dutchman does not fit his specific positional requirements.