Porto to sign ‘new Messi’

Porto are on the verge of signing Argentine Under-20 international Juan Manuel Iturbe, according to Maisfutebol.

The 17-year-old, dubbed ‘the new Messi’ left Cerro Porteno to sign for Quilmes last summer, but he was unable to feature for the new club after the Paraguayan side launched a dispute, claiming they still owned the player’s rights.

Porto have reportedly reached an agreement with Cerro Porteno, with the transfer set to be completed later today.

Cerro Porteno spokesman, Romeo Ortigoza revealed the deal is close to being completed.

“Iturbe’s family arrived in Portugal in the company of agent Gustavo Mascardi, to negotiate with FC Porto.

“Cerro Porteno waited for an agreement to be reached, to travel to Portugal too and close the transfer. This Wednesday we received word that the deal could be completed.

“For the moment the family has reached an understanding with FC Porto, we would reach a compromise too. On our part there is no problem.”

The transfer will cost around €1.5 million, while the Paraguayan club will also be entitled to a percentage from a future transfer.

The 17-year-old is currently playing for Argentina at the Under-20 South American championship and he even scored the winning goal against Uruguay yesterday.