Man City are now set to miss out on a deal to sign Matija Popovic as AC Milan close in on the Serbian wonderkid.
That is according to Fabrizio Romano.
So, what is the latest on Man City and Matija Popovic? Let’s take a look
Well, AC Milan have been in negotiations to sign the 18-year-old since October, according to an earlier claim from Romano.
Despite that, a story from Tutto Mercato Web stated that
Manchester City had “forcefully” entered the race and emerged as favourites to pinch Popovic on a free transfer.
Now, however – according to Romano – AC Milan have managed to fend off that late approach from Manchester City.
The reliable Italian journalist wrote on X (previously known as Twitter):
“AC Milan are closing in on deal to sign Matija Popovic as free agent from Partizan
Man City unable to sign Popovic
“Popovic has turned 18 yesterday and he can now sign documents as Milan are finally prepared to seal the deal. Man City tried to hijack the deal but AC Milan have always been confident.”
The “rare” striker – who has been compared to Michu – is one of the most promising forwards in Europe,
Having scored 20 goals in just 24 appearances for the FK Partizan Belgrade U17 side in the 2022/23 campaign.
In our view, this is not a disaster for Manchester City.
Pep Guardiola does not really have any space to take on a talent like Popovic right now with Erling Haaland and Julian Alvarez in his striking department.
Therefore, a move to AC Milan – who are in a better position to give the Serbia U17 international game time in senior football – makes sense.
Furthermore, the financial disparity between the Premier League and Serie A means
Manchester City are well placed to pinch Popovic off AC Milan in the future anyway, should he fulfil his vast potential.
Despite his physicality, he seems to have good technical skills which help him start from a wide position to cut inside with his right foot.
