Manchester City has finalized the transfer of midfielder Nico Gonzalez from Porto for a sum of £50 million. This acquisition brings City’s total spending in the transfer window to £175 million. Gonzalez, aged 23, has committed to a four-and-a-half-year contract until 2029 and will don the No.14 jersey. He joins as City’s fourth signing in January, following Abdukodir Khusanov, Vitor Reis, and Omar Marmoush.
Expressing his excitement, Gonzalez stated, “This move presents a great opportunity for me at this point in my career. At 23, I am eager to challenge myself in England, and there is no better club than Manchester City for this endeavor. The team’s roster, filled with world-class players, is simply remarkable. Working with Pep Guardiola is an honor, and I am thrilled to join the squad and interact with the fans.”
City’s Director of Football, Txiki Begiristain, praised Gonzalez as a highly talented young midfielder. Despite the challenge of securing his transfer due to his stellar performances at Porto, City successfully closed the deal before the window shut. Gonzalez is expected to contribute to City’s campaigns in the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, and Club World Cup.
While Gonzalez had a release clause of £42 million, City reportedly offered close to £50 million to secure his services with a more favorable payment structure. City had been seeking a central midfielder since Rodri’s injury last September, which sidelined him for the season after suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament.
Having emerged from Barcelona’s renowned academy, Gonzalez has displayed his prowess at Porto this season, notching seven goals and six assists in 29 appearances. His versatility in various midfield roles made him an attractive option for City, especially in light of Rodri’s absence. With the current fourth-place standing and a significant net spend in recent years, City aims to strengthen its squad for a successful season.
As City prepares to face Real Madrid in the Champions League play-off, they recently suffered a heavy defeat against Arsenal. Sky has introduced a discounted Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle for the upcoming season, promising an enhanced viewing experience for football enthusiasts.
