In a significant development, Manchester City’s rising star Rico Lewis is set to sign a new five-year contract with the club, effectively ending Nottingham Forest’s pursuit of the highly versatile 20-year-old.
Rico Lewis Commits to Manchester City with New Long-Term Deal Amid Forest Interest
The deal, which includes an option for an additional year, will extend Lewis’s stay at the Etihad until 2030.
Despite persistent interest from Nottingham Forest, who were prepared to explore a deal valued at over £30 million, Lewis has consistently expressed his desire to remain with Manchester City.
His commitment was underscored after City’s season-opening win against Wolverhampton Wanderers, where he stated, “I’ve never seen myself at a different club. I’ve always wanted to play for City. It’s my dream club”.
Manager Pep Guardiola has long viewed Lewis as a valuable asset, praising his adaptability and maturity.
Lewis made 44 appearances across all competitions last season and started in the Premier League opener this term, providing an assist for Erling Haaland’s goal.
Guardiola’s support played a key role in the decision to secure Lewis’s future amid external interest.
Nottingham Forest, who had been actively strengthening their squad with signings like James McAtee and Omari Hutchinson, will now need to turn their attention to alternative targets for defensive reinforcements.
While Forest explored a move for Lewis, the player’s commitment to City means they will have to quickly shift focus elsewhere.
Lewis, capable of operating at right-back, left-back, and defensive midfield, joined City at the age of eight and has already made 94 appearances for the first team.
His new contract reflects both the club’s faith in his potential and his own ambition to become an established player at the highest level.
This new deal marks a strong statement from Manchester City about retaining their top young talents, especially those who have risen through the academy ranks and proven their worth on the pitch.
