Manchester City have unveiled the signing of Nico Gonzalez from Porto to take their winter spending spree to over £175million.
The Citizens joined in on the deadline day drama by matching the 23-year-old’s £50m release clause.
AFPGonzalez has swapped Porto for City to become their fourth signing of the window[/caption]
Pep Guardiola had been keen on bringing in a central midfielder to address their issues in wake of Rodri‘s season-ending ACL injury.
And a day after their humiliating 5-1 defeat away at Arsenal, City have splashed the cash once again to bring in his replacement.
Former Barcelona star Gonzalez is the player that was identified following a stunning season at Porto where he managed seven goals and six assists from 29 games in all competitions.
Porto were unwilling to negotiate a fee for the player, with activating his buyout clause the only way for City to bring him to the Etihad Stadium.
On completing the move, Gonzalez, who will sport the no.14 jersey, said: “This is the perfect opportunity for me at this stage of my career.
“I am 23 and I want to test myself in England. There’s no better club than Manchester City for me to do that.
“Look at the squad they have here… it’s unbelievable, full of world-class players. There isn’t a footballer in the world who would not want to be part of this setup.
“I know the reputation Pep has and I cannot wait to work with him. In fact, I am honoured he wants me to play in his team.
“I am truly excited. I just want to meet my teammates, and the staff here and then I want to play in front of the City fans!”
Gonzalez, who is yet to feature for Spain’s senior squad, could now make his debut in the FA Cup fourth round away at Leyton Orient on Saturday afternoon.
His arrival at City has seen the club break the £175m barrier with no side spending more than them in Europe this winter.
City kicked off their business in 2025 by bringing in defender Abdukodir Khusanov from Lens in a £33m deal.
They followed that up by forking out £30m on Brazilian starlet Vitor Reis from Palmeiras.
And Omar Marmoush became their third signing with City agreeing a deal rising to £63m with Eintracht Frankfurt.
Reigning Premier League champions City have endured a difficult season as they lie 15 points off leaders Liverpool.
They were beaten by Tottenham in the Carabao Cup and have a huge play-off showdown with Real Madrid in the Champions League later this month.