Manchester United miss out on Otamendi

Nicolas Otamendi

The news that Nicolas Otamendi has put pen to paper on a €12million deal that will seem him switch to Valencia in the summer, should come as yet another blow to David Moyes, in his bid to reinforce the defense that has been creaking goals all season. The 25-year-old Argentine central defender, who was a long-time target of Manchester United, is on his way out of FC Porto in the summer.

Otamendi wanted out and would have moved in January, but for some problems with the player’s passport. Now, with all that sorted out, he is set to join Valencia in the summer, on a five-year deal that might rise to €15million in the future, reports Sky Sports.

The news will mean that Moyes will have to look elsewhere, as he looks to shore up his defense. Otamendi is delighted with his move and told Valencia’s official website that “it is an honour to join a club like Valencia CF for this next stage of my career.” He added “Valencia CF are one of the most historic and attractive teams in Spain and in Europe, and I am very happy with this next step in my footballing life.”

Having snubbed offers from AS Monaco and Manchester United, Otamendi will link up with his compatriot Juan Antonio Pizzi from next season. Valencia has a history of signing great Argentinean players and Otamendi is hoping to join that list. “I know that Argentinian players have been an important part of Valencia CF’s history.

To wear the same shirt as Mario Kempes, Roberto Ayala, Pablo Aimar and many more is a responsibility that I will take on with much joy and excitement.” Valencia’s general sporting manager Francisco Rufete was jumping with joy, having beaten the advances of several other clubs to sign the talented Argentinean. He remarked of Otamendi as “a world-class talent” and said that his signing, “is great news for all Valencianistas and for the future of our side.”