Highly Rated American Goalkeeper Zack Steffen Finalises Move to Manchester City

06 December 2018 21:07

​Zack Steffen has reportedly completed his move from Columbus Crew to Manchester City, although he is likely to be sent out on loan initially.

The 23-year-old goalkeeper will join the Premier League champions in a move worth $7.5m (£6m), although that could rise to $10m if Steffen meets certain objectives.

It was known that ​City were in advanced talks to sign Steffen and multiple sources have told ​Goal that the transfer is now complete, despite a lack of official confirmation from either club.

Steffen is unlikely to succeed in his attempts to secure a work permit, so it is expected that City will send him out on loan at first. 

Girona, the Spanish club owned by the same parent company as City, is perhaps Steffen's most likely destination. French side Nice, managed by former New York City boss Patrick Vieira, is also an option.

Steffen's transfer fee is one of the largest ever received for an MLS player, and shatters the previous transfer record for an MLS goalkeeper, which was the $3m Manchester United paid New York Red Bulls for Tim Howard in 2003.


Steffen was named MLS Goalkeeper of the Year in 2018 after inspiring his team to reach the playoffs for a second consecutive season.

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His form earned him a first international call-up in January and he has now made six appearances for the United States, keeping three clean sheets and producing an inspired performance in the 1-1 draw with France in June.

With his former Columbus Crew manager Gregg Berhalter having been appointed the new United States head coach, Steffen will fancy his chances of holding down a regular place in the national team.

Source: 90min