Girona are struggling for results this season and desperately need to strengthen their squad. The club's hierarchy have therefore wasted no time and have already finalised an agreement for their first winter signing, who will join the team as soon as the transfer window opens.
In recent days, there has been intense speculation that the Catalan side want to sign Claudio Echeverri on loan for the remainder of the season. The Manchester City player has not made the expected impact during his current loan spell at Bayer Leverkusen, and his stay in Germany will therefore be cut short so he can head to another temporary destination.
According to information from respected journalist Fabrizio Romano, the agreement for Echeverri's move from Leverkusen to Girona has already been concluded. Manchester City have given the green light for the switch, using ties within the City Football Group, to which both clubs belong, to secure playing time for the talented youngster in La Liga.
Echeverri's heart set on home, but club decide otherwise
However, it appears that Echeverri himself is not particularly thrilled by the prospect of playing at the Montilivi Stadium. His agent told Spanish newspaper Sport that the 19-year-old attacking midfielder preferred a return to his native Argentina, where he had been linked with a move back to his former club River Plate.
The player's preference was clear, but it clashed with his employer's plans.
“That is what Claudio wants, but it is not Manchester City's wish,” the agent said openly. “I have meetings scheduled with directors and we will define what happens with Claudio's future, but I assume it will be in Europe. He would be pleased if he could return to Argentina, but right now that will not be possible because City do not want to send him on loan to South America.”
Livakovic spectre looms large
Girona have fresh and unfortunate experience with players who were unhappy at the club. A recent example is the Dominik Livakovic saga, with the goalkeeper set to leave as soon as the January window opens.
Girona's officials will be hoping a similar scenario does not unfold with Echeverri. On paper, he is seen as an excellent addition for the team sitting 18th in La Liga, but his motivation and willingness to fight for his new colours will be key, despite his desire to return home.
This article was originally published on Fotbal Portal.
