Manchester City have shown the sale of a player who enjoyed an “impressive season” last year, and the coup has been called a “great signing”.
According to Athletic, Pep Guardiola’s side are fighting for a relatively quiet winter window. Moves will be made, either in or out, but the most prominent moves for standout goals like Florian Wirtz will have to wait until the end of the season. .
Nonetheless, there’s plenty of action to be seen at the Etihad, with Fabrizio Romano confirming Man City have wrapped up a deal to sign Argentine wonderkid, Claudio Echeverri.
On the offensive side, much of the focus is on Kalvin Phillips, who is expected to go out on loan. Newcastle remain the favourites to sign the England foreigner at the moment.
The Athletic claimed left-back Sergio Gomez could also make way, though one player whose exit has been sealed is goalkeeper Zack Steffen.
The USA international, 28, has joined MLS outfit Colorado Rapids. Steffen has signed a three-year contract with an option for a fourth and the move was confirmed on both City and Colorado’s websites.
Steffen cost City roughly $7m when signed from Columbus Crew back in 2019. The vast bulk of his time in England was spent out on loan and the American enjoyed a ‘stunning season’ last term while keeping goal with promotion-chasing Middlesbrough.
However, Steffen’s contract is set to expire in 2025 and City reportedly have no intention of offering an extension. Therefore, an exit in 2024 is most likely yet to be finalized.
Steffen has now returned across the Atlantic and per the Athletic’s MLS expert, Tom Bogert, the move is a “huge signing” for Colorado.
Steffen will not be a designated player on the club’s roster due to being American. That will ensure the Rapids are able to utilise their overseas quota on other players.
Reacting to the hit on Colorado’s website, club president Padraig Smith was overjoyed with his move to City.
“Zack is an elite goalkeeper with a wealth of experience in MLS,” Smith began.
“His exceptional skills, delight and proven track record make him a valuable addition to our roster. “
“His character and mentality will bring great advantages to our team. We are excited about our defensive line with his signing and look forward to welcoming him to Colorado. “
The jubilation was also shared by Rapids head coach and former Man Utd assistant, Chris Armas.
“We are incredibly excited to bring Zack to the club,” Armas said. “He’s a very sensible player with a lot of experience and we know he’ll bring a lot to our group.
“His quality, leadership and winning mentality will be with us for years to come. “
Neither City or Colorado divulged how much was paid to sign Steffen. However, given Steffen was way down the pecking order in Manchester, it stands to reason any fee was less than the $7m City paid Columbus Crew four years ago.
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