Tim Vickery has now shared some comments on Claudio Echeverri as Manchester City close in on the Argentinian wonderkid.
The South American football expert spoke to Sky Sports about the 18-year-old.
So, what was said about Claudio Echeverri ahead of his move to Manchester City? Let’s take a look…
Tim Vickery comments on Claudio Echeverri
Well, the 58-year-old provided the lowdown on negotiations between Manchester City and River Plate.
Vickery also shared some insight about what Echeverri is like as a footballer, amid comparisons to Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona.
The man from Aldershot said: “There are arguments and negotiations going on at the moment between River Plate and Manchester City about exactly when he will move. Now, he is 18 today, which means Manchester City could take him already.
“Speculation in the Argentine press suggests that it is more likely to happen either in June or December, and at first, he may be loaned out to a club like Girona. River Plate would love to keep him – if possible – until the middle of next year (2025) for the inaugural, expanded FIFA Club World Cup.
“If City are going to pay more than £20m for a player, it does not make a lot of sense to leave him in South America for a full 18 months. The promise is huge. Forget the new Messi thing – not least because Echeverri is right footed – but he’s very sharp, operates as a No.10 or on the shoulder of the last defender. Real pace and changes of pace, changes of rhythm, real knowledge of where to hurt the opposition and attacking space.”
Manchester City have agreed a £21.7m fee with River Plate for Echeverri – according to Fabrizio Romano – and the South American will sign a contract lasting six years.
Manchester City continue to make smart moves
As Vickery alludes to, it might take some time until Manchester City fans actually see Echeverri at the Etihad Stadium.
However, Txiki Begiristain and others on the recruitment team are employed to keep Pep Guardiola’s squad fresh, and in strong shape for whoever eventually replaces the Spaniard.
As far as future proofing the squad goes, Manchester City look to be in very fine shape with the likes of Yan Couto and James McAtee also performing well.
