Man City well placed to repeat Julian Alvarez success after scouting mission - verdict

Manchester City supporters are certainly still split on the club's decision to cash in on Julian Alvarez in the summer of 2024.

The now-26-year-old played 103 games for the Citizens, notching 36 goals and 17 assists, while battling Erling Haaland for minutes up front.

During his time at the Etihad Stadium, Alvarez won two Premier League titles, the FA Cup, the Champions League and the Community Shield.

Basically, he completed it all in two seasons, and had dreams of a return to Spain. Rather than stick around in England, he signed for Atletico Madrid in an £86million deal.

Having cost Man City just £14.1m in 2022, the club made an eye-watering profit on the centre-forward, and they'll be hoping to recreate that.

River Plate continue to pump out new, up-and-coming talents, and it looks as though Man City will be returning to poach another in the coming months.

Santiago Beltran could be next success story at Man City

Alvarez was allowed to finish the 2021-22 campaign on loan at River Plate after being signed in the January window, and the same could happen again.

According to El Intransigente, the Citizens have sent scouts to watch 21-year-old goalkeeper Santiago Beltran, who has emerged as the team's first-choice shot-stopper.

In 38 appearances across all competitions in 2026, Beltran has kept 15 clean sheets, ranking amongst some of the best in the Liga Profesional.

Enzo Maresca's squad is certainly lacking young goalkeepers after James Trafford's departure, leaving Gianluigi Donnarumma and Geronimo Rulli as the two options.

Beltran certainly looks to be an option for the future, but City face competition from Aston Villa, Benfica, Real Betis and Barcelona.

What should Man City fans know about Beltran?

There is a lot to like about the talented shot-stopper, especially how he has returned from setbacks during his early spells at River Plate.

The left-footer suffered a serious ligament injury in 2024 that kept him out for eight months. But instead of a slow return, he has only gone from strength to strength.

It is understood that the goalkeeper's new contract includes a £18.7m release clause, which City would likely be happy to pay for such a young talent.

Given the success that Man City have had from previous dealings with River Plate, it seems like a no-brainer for the Premier League giants.