Manchester City sign ‘exceptional’ young midfielder with the same agent as Kevin De Bruyne
Manchester City have once again demonstrated their knack for securing the brightest young talents in football, with transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirming the club’s latest coup.
The signing of 16-year-old attacking midfielder Dexter Oliver from Tottenham Hotspur. The highly rated youngster, described as “exceptional” by scouts, is represented by the same agency as City legend Kevin De Bruyne, ROC Nation Sports, sparking excitement among fans about his potential to emulate the Belgian maestro.
Oliver, alongside 16-year-old centre-back Freddie Lawrie from Aston Villa, represents City’s continued investment in their world-class academy, which has produced stars like Phil Foden and Rico Lewis.
The announcement, made on September 6, 2025, has sent ripples through the footballing world, with supporters already buzzing about the teenager’s future before he’s even kicked a ball for the club.
Oliver’s arrival comes at a pivotal time for Manchester City, who are navigating a transitional phase following a trophyless 2024/25 campaign and De Bruyne’s departure to Napoli in June 2025. The club’s £320million summer overhaul, including signings like Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki, aimed to refresh the squad, but City’s academy remains the heartbeat of their long-term vision.
Oliver, a dynamic midfielder known for his goal-scoring prowess and technical ability, has been a standout in Tottenham’s youth setup, netting eight goals in 14 appearances for their Under-18s last season. His vision, composure, and ability to unlock defenses have drawn comparisons to De Bruyne, though sources close to the player stress he’s focused on carving his own path. The shared agency connection, however, has fueled speculation about City’s intent to mold him into their next creative linchpin.
The teenager’s move to the Etihad was finalized after weeks of negotiations, with City reportedly paying a compensation fee to Tottenham, though exact figures remain undisclosed. Oliver’s decision to join was influenced by City’s track record of nurturing young talent, with manager Pep Guardiola personally endorsing the transfer.
Guardiola, who has faced criticism for City’s slow start to the 2025/26 Premier League season—most recently a 2-1 loss to Brighton on August 31—sees Oliver as a long-term project. The youngster is expected to integrate into City’s Under-18 squad, with an eye on progressing to the Under-21s by next season. His versatility, able to play as a No. 10 or in a deeper role, aligns perfectly with Guardiola’s fluid tactical system.
Fans have taken to social media to express their excitement, with many pointing to City’s academy success as a reason for optimism. “Oliver could be our next Foden,” one supporter posted on X, while another noted, “Same agency as De Bruyne? That’s a sign!” The club’s youth recruitment strategy, led by director of football Txiki Begiristain, has been praised for its foresight, especially as City aim to rebuild their dominance.
While Oliver is unlikely to feature in the first team immediately, his signing underscores City’s commitment to blending youth and experience.
As they prepare for a crucial clash against Manchester United, the focus remains on the present, but Oliver’s arrival signals a bright future for the Sky Blues.