City's new £24.5m man Negredo looking to step up as striker bids farewell to Sevilla



Spain striker Alvaro Negredo is looking forward to taking his career to the next stage by joining Manchester City.

Sevilla announced Negredo would join City, pending a medical, and held a farewell press conference for their star striker on Wednesday evening.

Negredo, who scored 25 Primera Division goals last season and whose transfer will cost an initial fee of £21.5million but could rise to £24.5m with add-ons, said on the club's official website: 'I think in football there are stages. For four years I have been very happy, but I think my time was here over. I am happy to go to a big team.'

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Fond farewell: Alvaro Negredo said goodbye to Sevilla after sealing a move to Manhcester City

The 27-year-old paid an emotional tribute to Sevilla for 'four fantastic years' and added: 'For me this will be my home for a lifetime.'

But he revealed he was relishing the chance to link up again with Jesus Navas, who has already moved to the Etihad from the Andalucian club.

He said: 'I am happy to be spending another year with him.'

Sevilla president Jose Maria del Nido earlier revealed Negredo would sign the 'contract of his life' at City.

He said: 'Manchester City are buying a great player, the top-scoring Spaniard in La Liga. This is a big deal for Sevilla, the second most important in our history after we sold (now-Barcelona full-back) Daniel Alves, and the player will sign the contract of his life.

On the move: Striker Negredo will join Manchester City for £20m, the Spanish club confirmed

Hot shot: Negredo said he wanted to take his career to the next level at the Etihad Stadium

International star: Negredo was part of Spain's victorious Euro 2012 squad as well as being key for Sevilla

'Everyone should be happy; it is a great deal for all three parties.' Should the deal go through, Negredo would become new City boss Manuel Pellegrini's third signing of the summer following the arrivals of Navas and Brazilian midfielder Fernandinho. Negredo is likely to join City on the Hong Kong leg of their tour. The Spain forward is expected to be joined by Fiorentina forward Stevan Jovetic, with City advanced in negotiations over a £28m deal. Meanwhile, City are interested in Argentina Under 20 midfielder Bruno Zuculini. His club Racing Club want £2.5m, and to have him loaned back for a season.



VIDEO: Watch Negredo's goals for Sevilla in 2013







