Football
10y

Manchester City seal Fernando deal

Manchester City have completed the signing of midfielder Fernando from Porto for 15 million euros.

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The Brazilian-born 26-year-old becomes the Premier League champions' second summer signing after the free-transfer capture of right-back Bacary Sagna from Arsenal.

Fernando, who was the subject of a bid from City in January, will wear the No. 6 shirt, which he inherits from the departed Joleon Lescott.

"I am so happy to finally be joining Manchester City," he told City's official website.

"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."

Defensive midfielder Fernando scored two goals in 142 games during a seven-year stay at Porto, who confirmed on Wednesday evening that they had agreed to sell him.

As Fernando has Portuguese citizenship, he does not need a work permit to play in the United Kingdom, although he was omitted from his adopted country's World Cup squad.

His arrival gives manager Manuel Pellegrini the fourth central midfielder he wanted, to join Yaya Toure, Fernandinho and Javi Garcia.

Fernando's arrival increases the possibility Jack Rodwell, who only made one league start last season, will leave the Etihad Stadium. The England international is interesting West Bromwich Albion.

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