Manchester City Sign American Goalkeeper Zack Steffen

Over the last 24 hours reports have emerged from US based media that Manchester City have signed a new goalkeeper from US Soccer side Columbus Crew.

Few details have so far emerged other than what has been released by Columbus Crew to the media and some comments seemingly arranged from the player’s agent. These suggest that Manchester City have signed the player for what is believed to be a record sum paid for a goalkeeper in the US Major Soccer League. Reports have indicated that the final transfer sum is around £7 million, but it is unclear if this is the total amount or there are further additional add on sums as part of the deal.

Since news of the story broke in the media, fans have been busily creating YouTube videos of highlights reels of the 23 year old star player. Of course it is always difficult to establish exactly how good a player is from these highlights reels – I swear I would look like Messi if someone just edited me right! But they seem to show a keeper capable of playing the ball with his feet and making important saves.

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Steffen has emerged as a player of interest following his performances in the last season, where he has earnt rave reviews in America, keeping a record 10 clean sheets during the season. He has also established himself as the US International goal keeper and clearly must be viewing this move to Manchester City as an important part of his career.

Steffen has apparently signed a 4 year deal with City, but has been loaned back to Columbus Crew for the first part of the MLS season. This will mean he joins Manchester City in July 2019.

Quite what this move means for two of the City existing keepers is unclear. Claudio Bravo is now 35 years old and has been sidelined for this season after rupturing his achilles. Bravo is unlikely to play again before Summer 2019 and is under contract until Summer 2020.

In recent months Aro Muric, has been promoted to the first team from the Elite Development Squad, following the injury to Bravo. Muric has played in 2 English Football League Cup games so far and has featured on the first team bench for every game. He was recalled from loan in Holland to provide understudy duties this season. So far when called upon Muric has looked pretty solid and indeed his performances have brought him his first International cap for Kosovo.

Next. Phil Foden Signs 6 Year Deal at Manchester City. dark

Of course just because City have signed Steffen does not mean he will play for us. It could be he is destined to play for another Club within the City Football Group. It could be he is earmarked for resale much like Mooy. That remains speculation. All we can say for certain is Manchester City have added an International goalkeeper to their squad for next season and this young player looks like another exciting addition to the team.

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