According to Martin Blackburn, Wales midfielder Matt Smith is set to join League One outfit MK Dons on a permanent transfer after a string of loans over the past few years. Luka Ilić, who is employed by City but has never made an appearance at any level also leaves to join City Football Club and Ligue 1 side ES Troyes, the French club have announced and confirmed.
Matt Smith, although a Wales international, has never quite made the cut for the blues in terms of pushing for a first-team place. The twenty-two-year-old did make an appearance for Pep Guardiola in pre-season but has since been sent on loan to Championship strugglers Hull City.
The midfielder will take his first steps out of Manchester City employment by plying his trade for League One side MK Dons, which will cost the Dons initially next to nothing, but that could rise to £500k depending on how he fairs at Stadium MK; the Citizens have also included a sell-on clause in the deal.
Luka Ilic, also twenty-two, was never really in City's plans and his destination would always be a move away eventually. The Serb was on loan at FC Twente last season and so far this season but due to an unsuccessful second stint, the Dutch club cut ties with the midfielder. He's found a permanent home in France with fellow CFG club Troyes, where he has signed a two and a half year contract.
Written by: @coIgcra
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