Manchester City are reportedly closing in on signing talented youngster Christian McFarlane from New York City. The 17-year-old left-back has represented both the United States of America and England at youth levels.
According to reputed journalist Fabrizio Romano, McFarlane rejected bids from Brighton and German clubs to sign for City. “Another huge signing for Man City Academy, first Cavan Sullivan and now Christian McFarlane,” Romano added.
🔵🏴 Understand Man City are closing in on deal to sign Christian McFarlane from NYCFC, agreement now done.
McFarlane has rejected bids from Brighton and German clubs for Man City.
Another huge signing for Man City Academy, first Cavan Suvillian and now Christian McFarlane. pic.twitter.com/aFtmVPWdgj
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 29, 2024
McFarlane the Third Youngest Player to Sign MLS Contract
McFarlane was born in Essex, England, and moved to the United States when he was three years old. The defender came through the youth ranks of JIGS Soccer Academy and made the switch to the New York City youth academy in 2018. At 14, McFarlane signed his first professional contract with the club, becoming the third youngest player to sign a Major League Soccer contract in the process.
The youngster made his senior debut for New York City II in May 2022, coming on as a half-time substitute in a 2-1 victory over Inter Miami II. Christian McFarlane was handed his first MLS appearance earlier this year, coming on as a substitute in a home loss against Columbus Crew.
Representing both USA and England
Despite being called up to a training camp for the United States Under-16s in August 2022, McFarlane chose to represent the England Under-16 team in friendly matches in November 2022. Following this, he was once again called up to the USA Under-16 team for the 2023 U-16 International Dream Cup held in Japan.
In September 2023, McFarlane made his England Under-17 debut in a 3-2 defeat against Portugal. The defender was then included in the England squad for the 2024 UEFA European Under-17 Championship and went on to start in three of their games.
Manchester City’s Academy Strategy
Man City have aggressively looked to strengthen their academy over the past few years to nurture players internally rather than spending big money to sign them from other clubs. Despite only being 17, McFarlane will be expected to be a part of the City Under-23 team and may be included in the first-team squad if he can impress Pep Guardiola.
Following Sergio Gomez’s departure to Real Sociedad, City have considered signing a left-back to replace the Spaniard. McFarlane could spend a year with the youth teams before being promoted to the senior team next season as Josko Gvardiol’s deputy.
