Man City confirm £17m Julian Alvarez transfer before sending highly-rated striker back on loan to River Plate

MANCHESTER CITY have announced the signing of Julian Alvarez on his 22nd birthday.

But River Plate’s Argentina international does not need to worry about the upheaval just yet – as he will stay in Buenos Aires until the summer at least.

City snapped up one of the new superstars of South American football on a five-and-a-half-year deal after meeting his £17million release clause.

However as part of the agreement, they will allow him to see out the remainder of the season with River.

Alvarez will stay until his current club are out of the Copa Libertadores – meaning it could be July or as late as December before he finally pitches up in Manchester.

City chief Txiki Begiristain said: "Julian is a player we have monitored for some time.

“He is capable of operating in a number of attacking roles, and we firmly believe he's one of the best young attacking players in South America.

“I am so happy we have managed to bring him to Manchester City. I really believe we can provide him with the right conditions to fulfil his potential and become a top player.”

BETTING SPECIAL - GET £40 IN FREE BETS ON THE AFCON

River coach Marcelo Gallardo said: “At the moment there is no place for him there at City.

“In theory he is here until June but there is the possibility he will stay with us until December.”

City believe he could be ready to be part of Pep Guardiola's squad next season but are keeping an open mind.

Alvarez bagged 24 goals in 46 appearances across all competitions for Rover last season.

His exploits earned him a call-up to Lionel Scaloni's Argentina squad.

He will hope to play at the World Cup with Lionel Messi and Co later this year.

⚽ Read our Transfer News Live blog for the very latest rumours, gossip and done deals