Benfica close to Claudio Echeverri loan after Man City change plans

Manchester City have changed their plans for Claudio Echeverri, with Benfica now in advanced negotiations to sign the 20-year-old on loan.

Recent reports had suggested Enzo Maresca intended to keep Echeverri in his first-team squad and provide him with opportunities this season. That position has now changed, with City deciding another spell away is the better option for his development.

According to South American transfer journalist César Luis Merlo, Benfica are now close to securing Echeverri on a season-long loan, with the proposed agreement also including an option to buy.

City initially had three potential European destinations for Echeverri after deciding to sanction another loan.

Benfica, Real Betis and Sheffield United had all expressed interest, but the Portuguese club have quickly moved ahead of their competition.

Merlo reports that the agreement is now “practically on track”, with negotiations between Benfica and Manchester City at an advanced stage.

There are still details that need to be resolved before the transfer can be completed, but those involved reportedly believe discussions have entered their final stages.

The inclusion of a purchase option is particularly significant because it could provide Benfica with the opportunity to make Echeverri's move permanent.

Echeverri's future has changed direction several times during the summer.

River Plate had attempted to bring the attacking midfielder back to Argentina, while Bahia also emerged as a potential destination through the City Football Group network.

Those possibilities appeared to disappear after Maresca assessed Echeverri during pre-season and seemingly decided to retain him.

City have now reconsidered.

Rather than competing for minutes in Maresca's squad, the priority is for Echeverri to continue his development elsewhere in Europe and receive more regular first-team football.

The next loan could prove particularly important after two previous spells failed to provide consistent playing time.

Echeverri received limited opportunities at Bayer Leverkusen before enjoying a larger role with Girona.

Even then, he started only five of his 17 appearances, recording one goal and one assist.

There were flashes of the talent that persuaded City to invest in him, but not enough sustained football to establish momentum.

Benfica could offer a different environment. The Portuguese club have a strong reputation for developing young South American players and potentially provide Echeverri with the regular opportunities he needs.

The purchase option also changes the complexion of the deal. City previously appeared determined to retain control over Echeverri's long-term future, including blocking a return to River earlier this year.

Now, a permanent departure could at least become possible depending on how his season in Portugal develops.

Benfica and City still need to settle the remaining details before the agreement can be signed, but negotiations are now believed to be in their final stages.

For Echeverri, the priority will be regular football. A productive season at Benfica could either revive his prospects at Manchester City or provide a pathway towards a permanent move.