Despite Stefan Ortega remaining a relatively unknown commodity in English football, Manchester City fans seem collectively enthralled by his imminent arrival.
While the German goalkeeper is not a big-name signing in the same vein as the likes of Erling Haaland, the 29 year-old too comes with the reputation of being one of the best players in his position across the Bundesliga.
Touted as a replacement for the reportedly Middlesborough-bound Zack Steffen, the 29-year old was arguably one of the most underrated goalkeepers in Europe during the 2021/22 campaign.
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Boasting the second highest save percentage (73.3%) in the German top-flight and being ranked in the top 1% of goalkeepers for touches in the top-five European leagues last season, Stefan Ortega’s impressive numbers explain the buzz about his potential addition.
The talented shot-stopper all-but confirmed his switch to the Premier League champions by sending a farewell message to Arminia Bielefeld via Instagram.
It has been widely reported that he is set to undergo a medical with Manchester City this week as well, although there is the possibility that this may have already taken place.
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Additionally, a recent claim suggested that Manchester City will be able to finalise a deal for the German once his contract expires with the new Bundesliga 2. side on Thursday.
In a new development, such suggestions have been deemed true, as a move for the ‘keeper seems closer than ever.
As per a report by Martin Blackburn of the Sun, Stefan Ortega was at the Etihad Stadium this week.
This is a clear indication of the fact that the former 1860 Munich man has arrived to take a look at the facilities before completing a medical at his new club.
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In addition, the Premier League champions’ soon-to-be latest addition will join the media team as the preparations for an official announcement look set to be underway soon.
Ultimately, Stefan Ortega has been brought in as all parties surrounding Zack Steffen believe he needs a ‘new challenge’.
The 27-year old’s reputation took a massive dent after his catastrophic outing in net against Liverpool in the 3-2 FA Cup semi-final defeat last term, in which he was largely culpable for two goals on the day.
The USMNT goalkeeper’s indecisiveness on the ball was particularly worrying, as he looked like anything but a Pep Guardiola goalkeeper.
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On the other end of the spectrum, Stefan Ortega’s calmness in possession makes him arguably the perfect understudy to number one choice between the sticks, Ederson.
Despite not generating the headlines as the club’s other signings, his addition may be one of the shrewdest pieces of business from Manchester City all summer.
Featured Image Credit: dpa picture alliance / AlamyTopics: Stefan Ortega, Manchester City, Manchester City Transfer News & Rumours, Premier League, Bundesliga, Football, Transfers
