Manchester City have reportedly sent scouts on a quiet mission to France, sparking talk of a potential move for fresh talent from Ligue 1.
According to La Voix des Sports, a City Football Group representative attended RC Lens’ dramatic 2-1 win over AJ Auxerre last weekend — and there was more than sightseeing on the agenda.
The former Premier League champions, always on the lookout for the next breakout star, had four names on their watchlist.
The scout was said to be monitoring Adrien Thomasson and Ismaelo Ganiou from Lens, along with Clément Akpa and Kevin Danois from Auxerre. All four started the game, giving City’s observer plenty to note down.
Thomasson, Lens’ captain and midfield engine, was the standout performer with two assists — including one in the 96th minute to seal victory.
Akpa and Danois impressed for Auxerre, both completing the full 90 minutes, while Ganiou’s solid display at the back ended early after he picked up a second yellow card in the 73rd minute.
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The City Football Group connection
This isn’t the first time Manchester City have turned their gaze toward France. The City Football Group, which owns several clubs including French side Troyes, has made a habit of scouting Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 talent.
The model has paid off before — just ask Savinho, the Brazilian winger who joined City after making waves at Troyes.
Now, the scouting team seems to be eyeing another potential transfer pipeline. Thomasson’s leadership, Akpa’s composure, Danois’ midfield flair, and Ganiou’s defensive grit reportedly caught City’s attention.
Whether this turns into another masterstroke from Pep Guardiola’s recruitment machine remains to be seen, but history suggests they rarely travel for nothing.
City head into the international break on the back of a narrow 1-0 win over Brentford and will return to action against Everton on October 18.
But even while Guardiola’s men rest, the club’s scouts are clearly keeping their boots on the ground — and their eyes on France.
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