Negredo close to City switch – Sevilla president

Sevilla president Jose Maria del Nido has revealed that Alvaro Negredo’s proposed move to Manchester City will be confirmed imminently.

Del Nido has informed Seville-based publication El Desmarque that the long-running transfer saga is “about to close”, and described the impending deal as the second biggest in the Spanish club’s history.

He also added: “The deal will suit all three parties and is also important for Real Madrid due to a sell-on clause. Manchester City buy a great player, Sevilla benefit economically and the player gets the contract of his life.”

Negredo scored 31 goals in 42 appearances for Sevilla last season, and has been with the Andalusian club since 2009.

And Del Nido has accepted that he will need to sign an “important player” to replace his departing forward’s goal haul.

Negredo is set to become new City boss Manuel Pellegrini’s second signing from Sevilla during the close season following the recent acquisition of Jesus Navas.

The 27-year-old forward has earned 14 caps with Spain, but failed to earn a place in Vicente del Bosque’s FIFA Confederations Cup squad.