Exclusive: Former Man City defender tips Abdukodir Khusanov for Real Madrid transfer interest | OneFootball

Former Manchester City defender Colin Hendry has piled on the praise for Abdukodir Khusanov, tipping the Uzbek international to attract major transfer interest.

The rise of Khusanov has been one of the standout lines of the current season, transitioning from a rotation prospect to a vital component of Pep Guardiola’s defensive set-up following his arrivals from RC Lens in January 2025.

Following recent news that Nathan Aké and John Stones are set to leave Manchester City this summer, Abdukodir Khusanov’s importance to the club’s long-term project and immediate term set-up has only intensified.

The Uzbek star has helped City maintain an impressive defensive record in the Premier League, aiding their intense top-flight title race with Arsenal, while his ability to handle physical demands of English football while maintaining technical composure has led many to believe he is the next generational defender.

With Manchester City currently trailing the Gunners by five points with a game in hand in the English top-flight, Abdukodir Khusanov’s reliability and consistency in the final sprint will almost certainly be under the microscope.

“Something really special”: Hendry’s verdict on Khusanov

Speaking to City Xtra on behalf of 10bet, former Manchester City and Scotland centre-back Colin Hendry admitted his belief in Khusanov, indicating that the youngster could soon attract transfer interest from the likes of Real Madrid.

“I know he made a mistake on his debut against Chelsea, but since then, every time I’ve seen him, he has been something really special,” said Hendry.

He continued, “Manchester City have perhaps been better defensively in previous seasons, but he is someone who can kick on again. He would be someone a lot of clubs would look to buy, but you don’t get away from Manchester City very easily.

“Of course, you have Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich who might be interested, but he is a special talent.”

Manchester City’s stance on Khusanov

While Hendry’s comments regarding Real Madrid and Bayern Munich may set pulses racing, Manchester City are in a strong position regarding Abdukodir Khusanov’s future.

The defender is currently under contract until June 2029, and the club’s hierarchy – led by Sporting Director Hugo Viana – views him as a non-transferable asset, and may even look towards an improved contractual agreement given his rise this campaign.

Speculation is likely to persist as Khusanov continues to develop into one of the Premier League’s standout defenders, with a number of high-profile clashes still on the horizon during the ongoing campaign alone – including the FA Cup Final against Chelsea.