Manchester City captain Fernandinho has reportedly agreed to sign a two-year deal with Brazilian side Athletico Paranaense this summer.
According to football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Fernandinho has sealed a permanent move to Athletico Paranaense after nine glorious years at Manchester City. The Brazilian’s contract with the reigning Premier League champions runs down this month, and he will join Athletico on a free transfer.
The 37-year-old made 383 appearances for Manchester City after joining them from Shakhtar Donetsk in 2013. Fernandinho gradually grew into one of the most important players at the club, helping them win five Premier League titles, and leaves the club as the captain of the side.
In the latter half of his Manchester City career, manager Pep Guardiola also used him as a central defender and right-back, and Fernandinho excelled in each position. The defensive midfielder was a rock in the middle of the park for Guardiola’s side, often tasked with the responsibility of nipping opposition counters in the bud.
In his final season with Manchester City, Fernandinho made 33 appearances for the English club across all competitions and was handed a well-deserved farewell, as the Citizens won the Premier League title. The veteran midfielder is now set to return to Brazil, leaving a gaping hole in the Manchester City midfield.
Plan confirmed for Fernandinho. Former Manchester City player will join Athletico Paranaense on a free move, two year contract agreed. ??? #transfers
Man City will replace Fernandinho with Kalvin Phillips, done deal. ⤵️ https://t.co/ESLxuTOziG
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 26, 2022
But the reigning Premier League champions seem to have found a replacement for the outgoing midfielder. Leeds United’s Kalvin Phillips, who was also linked with Manchester United, is reportedly on his way to joining Manchester City in the summer transfer window.
The England international has reportedly agreed to personal terms with Manchester City. The Premier League champions are expected to shell out around £42 million to secure the services of Phillips, with another £3 million to be paid as add-ons.
The transfer is in its final stages, and Manchester City are expected to announce the transfer soon. They have also signed Erling Haaland from Borussia Dortmund this summer to finally solve their number nine issues. Gabriel Jesus, meanwhile, is closing in on a move to Arsenal, where he will their primary striker and offered a starting role under Mikel Arteta.
