Official: Manchester City sign Fernando

The Premier League champions tabled a failed joint bid for the 26-year-old and Eliaquim Mangala in January, but the former now becomes their second summer signing for £12 million

Manchester City have signed Porto midfielder Fernando for a fee of €15 million (£12m), the Premier League champions have confirmed.

As reported by Goal in May, the 26-year-old and right-back Bacary Sagna were top of Manuel Pellegrini's transfer wishlist for the summer.

Sagna's move on a free transfer was confirmed earlier this month, with Fernando becoming the champions' second close-season recruit.

City tabled a joint bid for Fernando and team-mate Eliaquim Mangala in January, though the deal could not be completed before the transfer deadline - with the former then signing a new contract with Porto.

Fernando

Confirmation of the deal was initially held up due to complications, with Fernando's agent, Antonio Araujo, confident the move would happen last month.

He told Maisfutebol: "Fernando is in the city of Porto waiting for Porto tell him their decision about the documents they have received so that he can travel immediately [to Manchester]."

Fernando, who was denied the opportunity to represent Portugal, has been targeted by City for his midfield anchorman qualities and will compete with the likes of Fernandinho and Yaya Toure for a starting berth.

And he has expressed his delight at finally completing his move to Etihad Stadium, saying: “I am so happy to finally be joining Manchester City.

“I know there was talk of me possibly signing last January so I am delighted that the deal has now been done and that I am a City player.

“I’m looking forward to meeting my new team-mates and helping City to defend the title. It is a very exciting time to be part of this football club and I cannot wait to play in the Premier League.

“City fans can be assured I will give my all every time I play and I’m looking forward to many happy years in Manchester.

“I have enjoyed my stay with Porto and I thank the club and the fans for their support during my time in Portugal. Now I am ready for a new chapter in my career.”
Goal.com