Man City sign Mexican youth international as they close on second deal

Manchester City have completed the signing of Mexican youth international Alex Alcala.

The 18-year-old joins from LA Galaxy after a purchase option from a 2020 agreement with the City Football Group was activated by the Blues. Alcala, an exciting midfielder, is expected to stay with the academy for the second half of this season and the next campaign, although a loan move next season is also a possibility.

City are also close to completing a permanent deal for 17-year-old midfielder Claudio Echeverri from River Plate in what is expected to be their only major incoming of the January window. Just as the Blues did with Julian Alvarez in 2022, they will allow Echeverri to remain at the Argentine club for at least another six months and then look at the best option.

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The success of Alvarez, who helped City to five major trophies in 2023 after winning the World Cup with Argentina in December 2022, has given hope that the Blues can enjoy more success from their recruitment operation in South America led by Joan Patsy. City Football Group's director of football in South America convinced the Blues to move for Alvarez in January 2022 when other clubs were becoming aware of his potential, and the £14m fee already looks to be one of the biggest bargains in years.

City have also enjoyed considerable success in Brazil. Gabriel Jesus made an instant impact when he moved from Palmeiras in Pep Guardiola's first year in charge, while full-back Yan Couto is impressing in a Girona side upsetting the odds in La Liga.

The only other major business in January will be a temporary exit