Manchester City have beaten local rivals Manchester United to the signing of left-back Juan Larios from Barcelona. The Daily Record claim City outbid United and that the defender is set to make the switch to the Etihad in January.
Spanish outlet SPORT reported Pep Guardiola’s side were in advanced negotiations regarding the transfer last week and it appears an agreement has been reached between the two clubs.
Dubbed as ‘the next Jordi Alba’, Larios is a product of the famous La Masia academy and has to date been playing two years ahead of his age in the Spanish youth-setup.
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Arsenal were also said to be interested along with the two Manchester clubs but neither were able or willing to offer a financial package as lucrative as the one City put on the table.
It’s understood that the Spanish influence at Manchester City was a deciding factor for the young man when making his decision as he believed his transition to the English game would be smoother if he were able to communicate confidently in his native tongue.
TIF Tactics – Left back remains a problem for Pep
City’s problems at left-back have been well documented with Benjamin Mendy and Angelino failing to impress for the most part this season. Neither are, perhaps, seen as a long-term solution to the position and could be keeping the seat warm for Larios once he is ready.
At just 15-years old, Larios will need time to develop and adjust to life in England, but the City hierarchy have clearly seen something to make them move for the defender – he’s a player to keep your eye on in the coming years.