The 23-year-old Australian is City’s first signing of the January transfer window but is expected to be loaned out to sister club Melbourne City

Central Coast Mariners have confirmed that Anthony Caceres has joined Manchester City.

The 23-year-old midfielder made his debut in the Australian top flight in 2013 and has scored three goals in 73 appearances for Mariners.



A statement from the A-League club read: "The Central Coast Mariners can today confirm that the Club has agreed to terms with English Premier League Club Manchester City for the transfer of 23-year-old midfielder Anthony Caceres that will take immediate effect."

It’s expected that the Australian, who has not been capped by the national side, will be immediately loaned out to City’s sister club Melbourne City, who are owned by the City Football Group.

“We need to celebrate when players at the Central Coast Mariners are sold to bigger Clubs. It's our charter. It's our intent,” said Mariners head coach Tony Walmsley.

“When I brought Anthony Caceres to the Mariners his potential was obvious.

“This move demonstrates how far Anthony has progressed and symbolises how giving youth a chance works for both the Central Coast Mariners and young aspirational footballers.”

However, Melbourne City coach John van 't Schip insisted on Friday that he expects Caceres to join City.

"Manchester City is getting him [Caceres] in. More or less, that's it," said the Dutchman.

"We can't comment on [a potential loan move] but of course everybody knows he's a good player, he's one of the better players in the A-League. So we'll just have to see."