It was mentioned that ever since Zack Steffen’s alarming display in Manchester City’s 3-2 defeat against Liverpool in last term’s FA Cup semi-final, doubts started to rise about his future at the Etihad Stadium.
With the 27-year old also aiming to solidify his spot as the first-choice goalkeeper for the USA men's national team at the Qatar World Cup later this year, it has been claimed that he has his sights set on a move to get more minutes under his belt.
As a result, it was reported that Manchester City have stealthily closed in on a summer switch for Stefan Ortega as their brand-new number two behind Ederson.
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It was later revealed that the highly-rated goalkeeper had rejected offers from Germany and Spain in a bid to sign for Pep Guardiola’s side, which implies that a transfer has been in the works for quite some time.
In addition, the move that has seemingly come out of nowhere has been reported to be completed this week, with a medical set to be held imminently.
While official confirmation is yet to emerge from both clubs, the 29-year old posted an emotional farewell to the Bundesliga side via Instagram, which all but confirmed that a switch to the English giants is all but finalised.
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“Thank you, Arminia Bielefeld! It's time to say goodbye."
"I wanted to thank Arminia Bielefeld for an incredible 12 years. It was an indescribable journey in which I developed enormously both as a sport and as a person."
Ortega continued, "We managed to get promoted to the Bundesliga, with a spectacular relegation the year after."
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"I could always count on your support and will always be an Arminia fan. I wish the upcoming team and all fans only the best and maximum success."
"Stay healthy and thank you again for everything. See you soon! Your Tego.”
Despite the club eventually facing the drop to the second tier of German football, Ortega was one of the only positives from Arminia Bielefeld’s disappointing campaign as he proved his worth as one of the Bundesliga’s finest goalkeepers.
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Making the highest number of saves and boasting the second highest save percentage for a side in and amongst the relegation fodder, the highly-rated shotstopper’s list of eye-opening statistics are a strong indication of how tremendous he was in the 2021/22 season.
With his contract set to expire in the summer, Manchester City are set to sign an extremely competent number two on a free transfer.
While the Sky Blues continue to pursue the signature of Brighton full-back Marc Cucurella, the likes of Stefan Ortega and Leeds' Kalvin Phillips now look set to join Julian Alvarez and Erling Haaland as the side’s brand-new additions.
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Phillips is expected to complete the remaining formalities of his pending transfer this week, with personal terms not expected to be an issue between the player and Manchester City.
Topics: Stefan Ortega, Manchester City, Manchester City Transfer News & Rumours, Premier League, Bundesliga, Transfers, Football
