Manchester City have pulled off a major transfer coup, securing the signing of Argentina’s Under-17 World Cup star Claudio Echeverri from River Plate for €25m (£21.7m). The 17-year-old midfielder, who impressed at the tournament in Indonesia last month, will remain with the Argentinian club for another year on loan as part of the deal.
City managed to beat out competition from Barcelona for Echeverri’s signature, showcasing their growing reputation for nurturing young talent. This deal follows a similar structure to the signing of Julián Álvarez in January 2022, who also remained with River Plate before moving to England the following summer.
Echeverri, known as El Diablito (little devil), has been making waves in Argentina, bursting onto the scene for River Plate’s reserve side last year and making several first-team appearances. His performances at the recent Under-17 World Cup, where he scored a hat-trick against Brazil, have further enhanced his reputation as one of the most exciting young talents in South American football.
City’s ability to secure the signing of Echeverri will be seen as a major statement of intent, as they continue to build for the future under Pep Guardiola. The young midfielder is expected to sign a long-term contract and complete his move to Manchester in the January transfer window.
In other transfer news, England midfielder Kalvin Phillips has indicated his preference to leave City, with Crystal Palace, Newcastle, and Juventus reportedly interested in signing him on loan. While City’s preference is to find a buyer for Phillips, a loan move may be sanctioned as representatives for the player have held talks with the club.
Overall, this is set to be an intriguing transfer window for Manchester City, with the acquisition of Echeverri and potential movement for Phillips adding to the excitement for the Premier League champions.