Lescott latest: Medical passed
According to Sky Sports, Joleon Lescott has passed his medical at Spire Hospital in Whalley Range. Photos of him in a light blue shirt on the official site could be appearing shortly…
City announce Sylvinho signing
Sylvinho has signed a one year contract with the Blues. The 35 year old former Brazilian international was a free agent after being released at the end of last season by Barcelona. He wasn’t a regular for the European champions last season, but due to injuries and suspensions, he played the full 90 minutes of Barca’s Champions League victory over Manchester United. Prior to that he’s best remembered in this country for two seasons at Arsenal between 1999 and 2001.
It’s an unexpected signing as it was thought that one of the key factors in the pursuit of Lescott was his ability to provide cover for Bridge at left back. Northern Ireland left-back Ryan McGivern also impressed during pre-season. We’ll have to see whether the Academy graduate will now go out on loan for first team experience. The future is clearly bleak for Javier Garrido, whose agent has already spoken of finding a new club for the Spaniard.
“Sylvinho has a wealth of experience at the very top level, having represented Brazil and played for some of the very top clubs in Europe.
“When the chance presented itself to bring him to Manchester City as a free agent I saw it as representing excellent business for us. Sylvinho won the European Cup last season at Barcelona and he will strengthen our defensive options.”
Following the departures of Elano and Jo, our latest Brazilian will at least provide some company for Robinho. Whether he turns out to be this year’s Glauber Berti remains to be seen.
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City linked with Sylvinho
While all the attention is on Joleon Lescott’s imminent arrival, City have now been linked with the Brazilian left-back Sylvinho. The former Arsenal left-back is available on a free transfer after being released by Barcelona. Discussions about the signing are believed to have taken place when City were in Spain last week.
The 35 year old’s last competitive game was in Barcelona’s 2-0 victory over Manchester United in the Champions League final.
Fee agreed for Joleon Lescott
City have confirmed that an agreement has been reached with Everton for the transfer of Joleon Lescott.
Sky Sports News have stated that the player has already completed part of his medical. If the remainder is completed tomorrow (Monday) and personal terms agreed, then the long running transfer could finally be concluded by the end of the day.
The fee has yet to be confirmed. Estimates vary from £22m to £24m, an undoubtedly huge sum for a player who is not an England regular. Mark Hughes will no doubt describe himself as “delighted” to have finally captured his first choice target for the left side of central defence.
Lescott can also provide cover for left-back. With Zabaleta and McGivern also appearing there in recent friendlies, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see the departure of Javier Garrido before the close of the transfer window.
Speculation about the future of Richard Dunne will doubtless intensify despite his recent statements of being willing to fight for his place. Sunderland, Villa and Spurs are amongst those who have been linked with the skipper throughout the Summer and if the Irishman wants regular first team football, then he could be tempted to move.
Lescott meanwhile could be set to make his debut in the Carling Cup tie at Crystal Palace on Thursday.