As expected Manchester City wrapped up the $54 million capture of French international defender Eliaquim Mangala on Monday.
Manuel Pellegrini had spoke about the possibility of Mangala joining the Citizens following their Community Shield defeat to Arsenal on Sunday and within 24 hours City have completed the deal.
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Mangala joins from FC Porto and becomes City’s sixth, and most expensive, signing of a frugal summer transfer window so far. He adds a real presence in the heart of their defense and at just 23 years of age he will be an integral part of the clubs future.
Speaking about his move to the Etihad Stadium, Mangala is delighted to be joining City.
Grabbing a new central defender was a key part of Pellegrini’s summer transfer plans and he has finally done so. Mangala is likely to partner Vincent Kompany in central defense and has been chased by plenty of Europe’s top clubs. With Martin Demichelis coming towards the end of his career and Matija Nastasic out of favor with Pellegrini, getting a fourth central defender on board was a priority.
Mangala’s speed, power and size will suit the Premier League well. Expect him to become a star alongside Kompany as City aim to further shore up their defense as they aim to defend their PL title and go further than ever before in the UEFA Champions League.
