The uncle of Spain forward Nolito has confirmed that the player will be joining Pep Guardiola at Manchester City.

Julio Smith

In comments made to the programme 'Jugones' on TV station 'La Sexta', Manuel Rodriguez said: "He is leaving, for sure, he is just waiting to finish the European Championships but the (deal) with City is almost done."

The Celta man had been a target for Barcelona since the last winter transfer window, with manager Luis Enrique known to be very keen on his incorporation.

However some uncertainty within the club led to the player growing tired of waiting for the Catalan side to pull the trigger on the deal. Manchester City had no such doubts, and Nolito's uncle is convinced that City's new manager was the key.

Manuel Rodriguez added: "(Manchester City) is one of the best teams in the world right now and they have money. Guardiola called him a week ago. He is going to City because of him. If City had another manager I think he wouldn't have gone."

Pep Guardiola coached Nolito when the player made his Barcelona first team debut in the 2010/11 season. Nolito left the club in the summer of 2011 after five first team appearances, having joined the Barça B squad in 2008.