Manchester City are close to signing Columbus Crew goalkeeper Zack Steffen, according to Sky Sports.
The broadcaster report on their live transfer blog (Tuesday, 5.50pm) that the Premier League champions are hoping to secure an agreement for the USA international, 23, when the window opens on 1 January.
Sky Sports cite reports that the fee for Steffen could be between £5million and £8million.
Good move for Man City?
An all-conquering side regarded as one of the world’s best, if not the best, rarely turn to the MLS to strengthen their squads, but City appear to be convinced that Steffen has the capabilities to provide quality cover for Ederson following the training ground injury suffered by Claudio Bravo. Standing at 6ft 2in (Transfermarkt), Steffen cuts an imposing and athletic figure, and his performances for club and country have brought scouts from across the world to see him in action. That said, there must be question marks as to whether he can slot in to a City side with title and Champions League ambitions. Would he be better than Joe Hart, for instance, if Ederson were unavailable in the second half of the campaign?
This is Futbol rating: 6/10
Likely to happen?
This deal is gathering media momentum, which suggests it is all but done. If City want it enough, and are prepared to make a big pre-January push, it is hard to imagine Steffen not being unveiled as a new signing fairly imminently. Sky Sports don’t report gossip, only advanced deals. Expect an announcement soon that an agreement is in place barring the necessary work permit.
This is Futbol rating: 9/10