Key Points
- Manchester City FC agreed terms to sign Paris Saint-Germain FC striker Nicolas Anelka for €20.5 million.
- The deal includes a medical for Anelka over the weekend and Lucien Mettomo moving to Paris Saint-Germain FC.
- Anelka previously spent time on loan at Liverpool FC during the 2001/02 season but was not signed permanently.
- City aimed to strengthen their squad ahead of returning to the FA Premiership, doubling their previous record transfer fee.
Manchester (Liverpool Standard) February 6, 2026 – Manchester City FC have reached an agreement with Paris Saint-Germain FC to sign striker Nicolas Anelka in a club-record €20.5 million deal.
The transfer marks a significant boost for City as they prepare for their return to the FA Premiership, with the former Arsenal FC and Real Madrid CF forward set to undergo a medical over the weekend. According to UEFA.com reporting, the clubs hope to finalise the move swiftly, including Cameroon defender Lucien Mettomo heading to Paris as part of the exchange.
What does Anelka’s background bring to Manchester City?
Anelka, who was omitted from France’s FIFA World Cup squad, joins City after a loan spell at Liverpool FC in the latter part of the 2001/02 season. Liverpool decided against making the transfer permanent despite his performances at Anfield.
As reported by UEFA.com, this €20.5 million deal doubles Manchester City’s previous record fee and represents their second striker signing in the window, following interest in Argentinian forward Matias Vuoso from CA Independiente for €6.3 million.
How is Manchester City reshaping their squad?
City have already welcomed goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel and defender Sylvain Distin to Maine Road, bolstering their options ahead of the new campaign. The club rejected a loan bid from Monaco for Anelka, insisting on a £10 million fee for any permanent move, according to World Soccer.
Which other arrivals signal City’s ambitions?
Vuoso is due to travel to England on Saturday for a four-year contract, subject to a medical on Monday, as detailed in UEFA.com coverage. These moves underline City’s determination to compete at the highest level upon Premiership promotion.
What are the next steps in the Anelka transfer?
Finalisation of the Anelka deal hinges on a successful medical, with both clubs optimistic about completion. The additions position Manchester City strongly for the challenges ahead.
UEFA.com confirms the agreement reflects City’s proactive approach to squad building in the transfer market.
