In contrast to Maradona’s legacy, Manchester City has reportedly activated a substantial £22 million release clause for the promising talent, Claudio Echeverri, currently with River Plate.
According to TV Play, Manchester City’s move is perceived as a setback for Juventus, who had been closely monitoring the 17-year-old player. The Italian giants are said to have lost out in a transfer battle, with City allegedly securing Echeverri by meeting the €25 million (£22 million) release clause, a move that is described as an affront to Juventus.
This development is considered a blow to Cristiano Giuntoli, Juventus’s Director of Football, with the situation seen as a “serious problem” in Turin. The report, while somewhat confusing in its wording, suggests that if Manchester City indeed activates Echeverri’s release clause, Juventus might have little chance in the matter.
Despite the ambiguous language, it appears that Manchester City is in a favorable position to sign the Argentina Under-17 international. Echeverri, often dubbed “the right-footed Diego Maradona” by TV Play, showcased his prowess with a hat trick against Brazil in the U17 World Cup Quarter Finals, propelling Argentina to the Semi Finals.
The urgency is emphasized, calling on Txiki Begiristain, Manchester City’s manager, to promptly activate the teenager’s £22 million release clause. Echeverri, already the captain of Argentina’s Under-17 team, has made a mark with four senior appearances for River Plate and an impressive record of eight goals in 17 games for Argentina’s U17 side.
The situation is poised for a competitive bid between Manchester City and Juventus for the South American prodigy, as both clubs vie for Echeverri’s promising future, closely watched in Argentina and beyond.