Julian Alvarez - all we know so far as Manchester City look set to complete first transfer window signing

The attacker looks set to become the champions’ first signing in the January transfer window.
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Manchester City are closing in on the signing of Julian Alvarez, according to reports.

The Argentinian, who has earned five senior international caps to date, looks set to become the Premier League champions’ first signing of the January window.

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A deal is even expected to be completed this week for one of the most coveted young talents in the world.

Alvarez scored 20 goals in all competitions for River Plate last season. Credit: Getty.Alvarez scored 20 goals in all competitions for River Plate last season. Credit: Getty.
Alvarez scored 20 goals in all competitions for River Plate last season. Credit: Getty.

What do we know so far?

When it comes to transfers Fabrizio Romano is the go-to guy, and he’s reported that City will pay ‘€18.5m with bonuses/taxes’ for the attacker, who has signed a deal until 2027.

According to the journalist, Alvarez is a ‘star for the future’ and he claims Manchester United, who were heavily linked with the youngster earlier in the window, were never close to signing him.

It’s been widely reported that Alvarez will be sent immediately back on loan to River Plate, with the Manchester Evening News claiming that he could join up with the squad as early as July, with that dependent on the team’s success in the Copa Libertadores. However, it could also be as late as November before Alvarez travels to England.

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Elsewhere, it’s been reported in Argentinian outlet Ole, and relayed by Sport Witness, that Wolverhampton Wanderers made a bid to take the 21-year-old on loan from City for the next 18 months, but that offer was rejected by City.

What will Alvarez bring to the team?

Pep Guardiola likes his attackers to be able to operate in a number of positions, and that’s exactly what he’s getting from his January signing.

Alvarez tends to play as a central striker or on the right wing, despite being right-footed. But he has also played on the left flank and even in a No.10 role.

As per Whoscored, Alvarez’s best traits are his passing, dribbling, long shots and crossing. He also has an eye for goal and netted 18 times in 21 league appearances for River Plate last season.