Nicolas Otamendi Officially Completes Manchester City Transfer from Valencia

Manchester City announced the signing of Argentinian centre-back Nicolas Otamendi on Thursday, ending a summer saga that also saw him linked with Manchester United.

Bleacher Report's Guillem Balague confirmed on Tuesday the five-year deal will cost City €45 million (approximately £31.7 million) and no player will head to the Mestalla on loan as further payment, despite claims Valencia wanted Eliaquim Mangala in return.

Daniel Taylor of the Guardian noted this idea was "knocked back" on Aug. 17.

Otamendi reportedly chose not to train ahead of his anticipated move to England, according to AS (h/t Daily Star's Colin Harvey). The publication previously claimed Old Trafford would be his destination.

The Red Devils were expected to make an approach for the bullish defender after their attempts to land Real Madrid's Sergio Ramos resulted in frustration, per Charles Perrin of the Express on July 27. However, Sky Sports sources claimed on Aug. 13 United were no longer interested.

Securing such an accomplished centre-back is a major coup for City boss Manuel Pellegrini.

United's need was arguably greater, but City had little depth behind Vincent Kompany and Mangala. Otamendi is a top-class option capable of walking straight into City's starting XI.