Liverpool and Manchester United all set to miss out on Porto’s highly talented defensive central midfielder Fernando Reges, who is on the verge of joining Premier League champions, Manchester City.
The 26-year-old midfielder was a reported targeted of both Manchester United and Liverpool. Back in October, Sky Italia journalist Fabrizio Romano claimed United and Liverpool’s interest in the player, adding his high salary demand could be a stumbling block in signing him.
However, the interest in Octopus, his nick name, had somewhat died down from both Liverpool & United post January transfer window, while Manchester City emerged as favourite in signing him.
The Guardian now reports Manchester City are all set to announce Fernando as their first signing of the summer. The midfielder would cost around €20m (£16m) and is expected to complete his medical and agree terms within next few days.
City have made a habit of securing deals at the earliest, having signed four players last summer by mid-July. The Citizens also need a right back and expect to sign Arsenal’s Bacary Sagna.
Fernando is a typical John Obi Mikel-type defensive midfielder, who has great positional awareness. His main job is to break up opposition attacks and holding up position in order to keep the team in shape when out of possession.
The signing will give Manuel Pellegrini the much needed tactical flexibility, as he can allow Yaya Toure more licence to play in attacking positions.
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