Nicolas Otamendi to Manchester City: Latest Transfer Details, Reaction and More

Manchester City have completed the signing of Nicolas Otamendi from Valencia, marking their third capture of the summer.

News of the transfer’s finalisation came via the club's Twitter account:

Otamendi revealed his delight over the move, per City's confirmation:

"

I am here to give my best, to fight game by game and push City to the highest peaks for as long as possible, and I wish we will be able to win several cups and titles. That’s the most important. To be here inside a club that looks so wonderful from the outside is a dream.

"

Sky Blues boss Manuel Pellegrini added: "Nicolas Otamendi was arguably the best defender in La Liga last season and so naturally I’m delighted to have added a player of his quality."

City printed the player's first shirt, complete No. 30 on the back:

After a stellar season in Spain’s top flight, Otamendi has forged a reputation as one of the up-and-coming centre-backs in world football. The former Porto man has been a forceful presence at the back for Nuno’s team and was integral in their fourth place finish in 2014-15.

WhoScored.com provided some statistics to show just how critical Otamendi was for Valencia:

But even with Champions League football back at the Mestalla, rumours were rife about Otamendi all summer, with Manchester United another side strongly linked with the 27-year-old defender, per Jack Wilson of the Daily Star.

City have stolen a march on their local rivals, though, with Pellegrini seemingly pulling off one of the signings of the window.

Otamendi is a perfect fit for the English game. With his stunning aerial ability, tenacious tackling and indomitable physicality, he’ll bring some stability to the City back four. As we can see here in B/R UK's first glimpse at the player in City's colours, he is a constant threat from corners (stat via OptaJose):

Valencia will find it hugely difficult to replicate the Argentina international’s influence and, with their coffers full after the player’s sale, will most likely have to pay over the odds for any replacement. But Los Che have shown they have a fine structure in place when it comes to recruiting players and will continue looking forward.

City will be delighted to get Otamendi on board. After signing Raheem Sterling and Fabian Delph earlier this summer, defence was definitely an area that needed bolstering, too.

While he may be costly, City have secured one of the game’s very best out-and-out centre-backs, who should be a mainstay in their back four for many years to come.