Marcos Lopes to Monaco: Latest Transfer Details, Comments and Reaction

Manchester City announced an agreement with Monaco on Friday for the permanent transfer of Marcos "Rony" Lopes shortly after manager Manuel Pellegrini said the midfielder was only available for loan.

Jamie Jackson of the Guardian reports the 61-year-old boss said any move involving the Portuguese youth international would be "just for this season" to get more playing time. However, following his pre-match press conference, City confirmed a permanent move.

The report notes the transfer fee is around £9 million. Lopes posted a message on social media after the deal became official.

"Sorry I couldn't say proper bye to my mates at [Manchester City] but I'm sure our ways will meet again sometime soon," he said. "I know you will win many titles!"

He also added on Twitter, "Thank you @AS_Monaco for the wonderful welcome and for believing in me! I'm honoured and eager to work hard!!"

The circumstances of the deal's completion remain unclear. It could be a case where Pellegrini isn't heavily involved in the decision-making process outside the first team or an expected loan became a full transfer late in the negotiation process.

Either way, Lopes is now a member of Monaco. He should have a chance to earn more consistent playing time with the Ligue 1 side in the near future. The squad has undergone a major overhaul this summer and still has questions to answer in the midfield.

The 19-year-old rising star enjoyed a solid loan stint with Lille in France's top flight last term. He tallied three goals and three assists in 23 appearances, showcasing plenty of potential, which is probably what caught the eye of Les Rouges et Blancs.

At City, it's important for Pellegrini to get on the same page with club officials regarding potential player movement. Even if it's not a high-profile transfer, it's not a good look when the manager says one thing and the club does another less than an hour later.

Exactly how Lopes will fit within the Monaco squad isn't immediately clear. But he needs regular starts to continue his development, and making it a permanent deal suggests the club has a vision for the promising attacking talent.