MANCHESTER, England — Brazilian winger Allan completed a transfer to Manchester City from Palmeiras for a reported 34 million pounds (USD$46 million) on Monday and described the move as “surreal.”
The 22-year-old Allan takes the place in the City squad vacated by Savio, who joined Tottenham last week, and is likely to play the same role as his compatriot — as a backup.
He has never played for Brazil or for any of his country’s age-group teams, so he arrives as a somewhat low-profile signing.
“This is a surreal moment for me,” Allan said in a City statement, in which he said it was an easy decision to move to the club.
“Manchester City, with everything they have won over the past 15 years, are one of the most attractive clubs in the world for players. To be able to sit here today and say I have joined them is the proudest moment of my life.”
Allan will provide competition for Antoine Semenyo, Jeremy Doku and Phil Foden, who are the other players filling the wing spots in City’s squad. There’s also Jack Grealish, but he might be sent out on loan again.
City director of football Hugo Viana described the new signing as “a really exciting” winger and a team player.
“We watched his progress in Brazil and saw a player that thrives in the big moments and works hard for the team with a superb attitude,” Viana said.
City has started the Premier League with two wins from its opening two games in its bid to reclaim the title from Arsenal.