Romano drops HUGE update on Chelsea target after failed Palmer repeat

Tom Weber

Updated: 11 Apr 2025 14:43 CDT
3 min read

Manchester City are 'progressing' in contract talks with Nico O'Reilly, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The 20-year-old is quickly becoming one of Pep Guardiola's new favourites after repeatedly impressing in the FA Cup. O'Reilly has managed to grasp the rare opportunities he has been offered with both hands and is set to play a key role for the Cityzens going forward.

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An attacking midfielder by trade, Guardiola has trialled the youngster in a defensive role, and he hasn't looked out of place. Man City are delighted with the impact of their wonderkid, and they want to tie him to the club long term.

A new contract wouldn't simply be a just reward for his encouraging development, but it would also send a message to potential suitors. In January, Chelsea attempted a repeat of their now-infamous swoop for former City product Cole Palmer.

The Blues approached the reigning Premier League champions to sound out a potential deal, but City had evidently learned from their Palmer mistake and made it clear that O'Reilly wasn't for sale.

O'Reilly set for new Man City contract

According to Fabrizio Romano, Man City have made progress in their talks with O'Reilly over a new contract, which would effectively end any hopes Chelsea may have still had of snapping him up.

The Italian transfer insider states that City are 'confident' of reaching an agreement with the 20-year-old, although he insists that there is 'no rush' as O'Reilly is still under contract until 2028.

So far, O'Reilly has made just 12 senior appearances for the Cityzens, but he already boasts three goals and two assists, all of which came in the FA Cup.

With Guardiola looking to continue his rebuild in the summer, O'Reilly's importance will only continue to grow. It wouldn't come as a shock if he were to win himself a more outsized role next season.