Manchester City poised to complete deal for giant trialist
Manchester City are believed to be close to completing a deal to bring FC Ashdod midfielder Nir Biton to the Etihad Stadium.
The Israeli international has impressed over the course of a week-long trial with the citizens, with the player’s agent, Dudu Dahan, claiming that he is in contact with Roberto Mancini on a daily basis.
Dahan told reporters: “I have been speaking with Mancini every day, since the trial, so how can I not be optimistic the transfer will be completed?”
There are several obstacles in the deal however, one of which being the Israeli’s compulsory national service in the nation’s army, of which he still has nine months left to serve.
Also, the parties are unsure whether the 20 year-old will be able to secure a work permit due to a relatively low amount of international experience with just two caps for the Israeli national side.
Dahan added: “City say they can get a work permit for Nir as well, as there is a special category for outstanding prospects like him.”
Manchester City will presumably be looking to ease Biton into the team setup after learning that Nigel de Jong has no intentions of extending his current deal with the Premier League side, calling for reinforcements in the defensive midfield.
Biton made a lasting impression during his trial at Carrington, scoring twice in his last training match as well as assisting Mario Balotelli in a third goal.
Roberto Mancini’s side are understood to be seeking a loan-to-buy deal for the starlet, hoping to take a more in-depth look at the anchorman over the rest of the season should he arrive on the proposed temporary move.
