Ferran Torres explains Man City dream as winger seals cut-price transfer

Ferran Torres has spoken of his delight after becoming Manchester City’s first signing of the summer after completing a move from Valencia.

The 20-year-old has signed a five-year contract, for a reported initial fee of £20.9million.

“I am so happy to be joining City. Every player wants to be involved in attacking teams. Manchester City are one of the most attacking in world football,” he said.

“Pep encourages a really open, aggressive style, which I love. He is a manager with a proven track record of improving players. To have him overseeing my development is a dream.

“City have won plenty of trophies in the last 10 years and I hope I can play a role in continuing that success.”

Guardiola is keen to strengthen his squad in the summer following the loss of their Premier League title to Liverpool.

They have been tracking Torres for some time and are also closing in on a deal for Nathan Ake. A £41m fee with Bournemouth has been agreed.

“We have followed Ferran’s progress closely and have been very impressed,” said director of football Txiki Begiristain.

“He is young and still developing, but his technical qualities are exactly what we are looking for in a winger. He is quick, direct, can create space with one movement and is capable of producing match-winning moments.

“I feel this is the perfect place for him to develop and take his game to the next level.”

Torres will fill the gap left in City’s squad by the departure of Leroy Sane.

Sergi Roberto, Eric Garcia talk

City have reignited their interest in Sergi Roberto, according to reports, but they may lose Eric Garcia as part of a deal with Barcelona.

City have been interested in Barcelona versatility man Roberto for some time. Pep Guardiola gave him his senior debut at Barca a decade ago, and could be eyeing a reunion.

Originally a midfielder, Roberto has become a right-back in recent years. It’s a position City could be looking to strengthen, after Joao Cancelo didn’t quite live up to expectations in his first season.

To sweeten the deal, City could send Eric Garcia in the opposite direction. Guardiola has shown faith in the young centre-back recently, but with less than a year left on his contract, Garcia is hoping for a return to Catalonia.

The 19-year-old spent nine years in Barca’s academy before joining City in 2017. Garcia would like to return to his hometown club, even though City remain hopeful that he will sign an extension.

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