The 24-year-old, who joined Manchester City from Stade Rennes for €60 million in the summer of 2023, has been identified as one of the key figures Maresca wants to build around as the club embarks on its first post-Guardiola era.
His current contract runs until June 2028, leaving the club in no urgent position to act, but both parties are understood to want the situation formalised early.
Doku contributed eight goals and 14 assists across 47 appearances in all competitions this season, his most productive campaign since arriving in England. He has become one of the most direct wide forwards in the Premier League, combining pace with the ability to beat defenders in tight spaces — a profile that suits the high-tempo, vertical attacking style Maresca deployed at Leicester City and is expected to replicate at the Etihad Stadium.
His retention comes as City navigate a complicated summer. Rúben Dias's future remains uncertain, Joško Gvardiol is attracting interest from Barcelona, and Bernardo Silva has already departed for Barcelona on a free transfer. Securing Doku to a new deal sends a clear signal about who Maresca views as foundational to the next cycle.