Man City win the race for Monga
Manchester City appear to have struck a significant blow in the transfer market by agreeing a £12.5 million deal to sign highly-rated teenager Jeremy Monga from Leicester City, according to BBC Sport. The 17-year-old winger had been heavily pursued by Arsenal, but City’s late move has gazumped their Premier League rivals.
The deal is yet to be officially completed but the transfer would see Monga join the Premier League champions, reuniting with new City manager Enzo Maresca, who handed him his breakthrough during a season in charge at Leicester.
Who is Jeremy Monga?
Monga is an England youth international, born in August 2008, and is already considered one of the brightest talents in English football. He became Leicester City’s youngest ever starter at just 16 years and 34 days old in a Carabao Cup tie against Huddersfield last August. The left-footed winger can also operate comfortably on the right flank and is noted for his close control, pace and ability with both feet.
"It was a crazy experience. At first I was obviously nervous but when I got onto the pitch all the nerves went away as I had to switch on," Monga said after making his Premier League debut as a substitute against Newcastle in April 2025.
He made 37 senior appearances for Leicester in all competitions during the 2025-26 campaign, including seven substitute outings in the Premier League, and currently sits as the third-youngest player to feature in the competition’s history – behind only Arsenal duo Max Dowman and Ethan Nwaneri.
What role could he play at Man City?
While the fee of £12.5m may raise eyebrows for a teenager, it is not unprecedented, mirroring the sums paid for teenage talents like Theo Walcott and Luke Shaw in the past. Monga’s immediate future at the Etihad Stadium is yet to be determined. He could be integrated into the first-team squad, potentially joining the club’s pre-season tour of Hong Kong and Seoul, or begin his City career playing in the academy to continue his development.
Maresca’s familiarity with the player is a key factor. The Italian coach worked closely with Monga during Leicester’s promotion-winning season, and his faith in youth could see the teenager given chances. However, City’s forward line is currently stacked with world-class internationals, meaning Monga might initially struggle for regular minutes. Yet those who have worked with him believe he is a “special” talent capable of thriving under pressure.
Key Takeaways
- Manchester City have agreed a £12.5m deal to sign 17-year-old Jeremy Monga from Leicester City, snatching him from under Arsenal's nose.
- Monga is a versatile, two-footed winger who became Leicester's youngest-ever starter and made 37 senior appearances last season.
- New City boss Enzo Maresca, who previously worked with Monga at Leicester, is thought to be instrumental in the move.
- Whether Monga goes straight into the first team or spends time in the academy, his potential is considered elite.
- The deal highlights the growing battle between City and Arsenal for England's top young talent.
Quick Facts
Name: Jeremy Monga
Age: 17 (born August 2008)
Position: Winger (left or right)
Former club: Leicester City
Transfer fee: £12.5 million
International level: England U15 to U19