Manchester City are have reportedly reached an agreement to sign Nico Gonzalez from FC Porto in a €60 million deal.
According to a report from reputed Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, Manchester City are set to sign FC Porto midfielder Nico Gonzalez. The Spaniard has a release clause worth €60 million in his contract with the Portuguese giants, and he has 13 goal contributions this season.
The Spanish midfielder is highly rated across Europe, and he has established himself as a key player for FC Porto. So, it is hardly surprising that Manchester City have been keen on signing Gonzalez in the winter transfer window.
The former Barcelona midfielder could prove to be a quality acquisition for Manchester City if they can get the deal done. The 23-year-old has the potential to improve further, and he could develop into a key player for the Premier League club. The Spaniard could be the ideal replacement for Kevin De Bruyne, who has been linked with the move away from the club in recent months.
The Belgian playmaker has been an exceptional servant for Manchester City over the years, and they will need to replace him adequately. In addition, Nico Gonzalez can play as a holding midfielder. So, he can fill Rodri’s void in the middle of the park. Manchester City have agreed to pay the €60 million valuation of Gonzalez’s release clause. However, they will structure the payments differently.
Manchester City move would have been tempting
The opportunity to join the Premier League champions is quite attractive for any player. The FC Porto midfielder will look to compete at the highest level and push for major trophies regularly. Manchester City have a proven track record of winning major trophies consistently. They are an appealing destination for most players.
Furthermore, the 23-year-old will get to work with one of the best managers of his generation at Manchester City, and Pep Guardiola could play a key role in his development. The Spanish manager could help his companion fulfil his tremendous potential. Regular football in England could accelerate his development and help him fulfil his potential as well.
It has been a disappointing season for Manchester City so far, and they have improved the squad earlier this month with the additions of Omar Marmoush, Vitor Reis, and Abdukodir Khusanov. It seems they will improve the midfield unit as well before the window closes.