According to the latest exclusive report by Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri, Premier League powerhouse Manchester City has identified 19-year-old French prodigy Désiré Doué as one of their top transfer targets for the upcoming summer window.
Highly admired by Pep Guardiola, Doué is regarded as one of the brightest young attacking talents in Europe, and City have already begun preliminary contact with his representatives.
owever, in a surprising twist, Doué has reportedly rejected the advances of the English champions, opting instead to remain loyal to Paris Saint-Germain.
A Rising Star: The “New Mbappé” Shining in Paris
Under Luis Enrique’s guidance, Doué has rapidly emerged as a key figure in PSG’s attacking line. Dubbed by some as the “new Mbappé,” the teenager has had a sensational breakout season.
So far this campaign, Doué has made 45 appearances across all competitions, netting 13 goals and providing 11 assists — remarkable numbers for a player of his age.
Blessed with lightning pace, dribbling flair, and impressive composure, Doué can both create and finish chances.
He’s proven to be more than just a winger, often dropping deep to orchestrate attacks or cutting inside to shoot — drawing comparisons to early-career Neymar and Mbappé.
Manchester City Make Their Move, But Doué Says “No”
Over the past few weeks, Manchester City had reportedly intensified efforts to bring Doué to the Etihad. The club was ready to offer him a lucrative contract and an immediate pathway to first-team football.
Guardiola himself sees the youngster as a perfect fit for his tactical system and even had plans to integrate him quickly into the squad.
However, Doué surprised many by immediately halting all negotiations, making it clear he has no intention of leaving PSG at this stage.
In private conversations, he is said to have expressed deep respect for Manchester City and Guardiola — but stated emphatically that his heart lies in Paris.
PSG React Swiftly: New Deal in the Works
PSG’s management moved quickly to ensure their prized asset remains in the French capital. According to French media sources, the club is preparing a major contract extension offer, which includes:
- A significant salary increase, elevating Doué to near top-earner status
- A contract extension until 2030, cementing him as part of PSG’s long-term future
- A commitment to make him a central figure in the squad, both tactically and commercially
The club reportedly views Doué as a cornerstone for its next era — one that might eventually not include Kylian Mbappé.
Negotiations Ongoing — And City Still Watching Closely
Despite Doué’s public stance, his new deal with PSG is not yet finalized. Talks are said to be ongoing, with key issues — including image rights, bonuses, and release clauses — still unresolved.
PSG also has a history of delaying contract renewals for young players until their performances are consistently evaluated across multiple seasons.
This leaves a window of opportunity for clubs like Manchester City, who are reportedly keeping tabs and ready to strike if talks break down.
Doué’s Future: Parisian Prince or Continental Star?
At just 19, Doué has time on his side. Choosing to stay at PSG reflects a maturity beyond his years — prioritizing development and stability over glamour or payday.
Still, the football landscape can change rapidly. A dip in PSG’s form, or a breakdown in contract talks, could easily reopen the door for a move.
And if that door opens, Manchester City will almost certainly be the first to knock again.
More Than a Transfer Rumor: A Glimpse into Football’s New Reality
Doué’s decision to reject Manchester City is symbolic of a shift in mentality among emerging stars.
It reflects a generation more focused on growth, loyalty, and patience — in contrast to the traditional narrative of chasing the biggest club and the biggest check.
It also underscores the growing competition between Europe’s elite clubs in the battle for the next Mbappé — a war of ideology, development pathways, and cultural fit as much as money.
Will City give up? Can PSG lock him down? And most importantly — who will Doué become?
This summer might not deliver all the answers, but the chessboard is already in motion. And the stakes couldn’t be higher.
