In a recent tweet, renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano offered an update on Manchester City and their pursuit of River Plate striker Julian Alvarez. Romano stated that the Mancunian giants have agreed on a five-year deal to land the Argentine talent, who will remain at River Plate on loan until July.
Julián Álvarez to Manchester City from River Plate, done deal and here we go! Agreement confirmed as expected last week. €18.5m fee to River with bonuses/taxes. Julián will sign for five years. 🕷🇦🇷 #MCFC
Deal now sealed – Álvarez will remain at River Plate on loan until July. pic.twitter.com/3JQYAuS1U3
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 25, 2022
Alvarez’s Excellent Numbers At El Monumental Last Season
Alvarez proved his worth as one of the most prolific goal-scorers in Argentine football in the previous campaign when he put in plenty of productive displays as the spearhead of River Plate’s attack. The Calchin-born attacker featured in 46 matches for the Argentine giants last season, netting 24 goals and grabbing 15 assists across all fronts.
The 21-year-old has led the line well by averaging 3.1 shots, 2.1 key passes, 1.1 crosses and 2.1 dribbles per game in the Liga Profesional. However, he needs to figure out a way to improve his accuracy when distributing the ball after completing 73.2% of his attempted passes in league football (stats via whoscored).
What Will Alvarez Bring To Manchester City?
Alvarez has got electric pace under his belt and can make a few dangerous runs with the ball in the final third. He has proven himself to be a prolific presence in front of the opposition goal and can also create some decent openings for others around him.
The River Plate prospect hardly missed any games in Argentine football last season which will suit Man City as the best ability sometimes is availability. He is primarily a centre-forward but can also play as a winger on either flank or fill in as an attacking midfielder if required.
Alvarez has what it takes to be a future star at the Etihad Stadium and could fill the big shoes left by Sergio Aguero at the Manchester club. He will also serve as an ideal replacement for Ferran Torres, who joined Barcelona earlier this month.
The Argentine whizkid will bring a lot of pace, goals and creativity to Man City‘s attack. Furthermore, he is a natural finisher in the final third which means that the player won’t face any real competition and would have a good chance at ensuring a regular starting place in Pep Guardiola‘s first XI in the coming seasons.