Uruguay defender Coates snubs City for Liverpool

Coates shunned offers from elsewhere in Europe . (FILE)

Published Thursday, August 25, 2011

By Agencies

Sebastian Coates has confirmed that he would reject a move to Manchester City in favour of joining Liverpool, it has been reported in the British press.

Both Premier League clubs have made moves for the Uruguayan central defender, who is on the verge of an $11.5-million move to Liverpool, according to a director at his club Nacional de Montevideo.

The 20-year-old Coates was named best young player at the Copa America which Uruguay won in July.

Nacional director Alejandro Balbi said that “there are just a few minor details of the transfer to be adjusted, but it’s all sorted out.”

Balbi confirmed the transfer is worth $11.5 million.

The tall defender is renowned for his ability in the air.

Coates told Uruguayan sports newspaper Ovacion earlier on Wednesday that Liverpool striker and national teammate Luis Suarez had told him all about the English club.

“I’d prefer Liverpool to Manchester City, but would need to see what they have to offer and would compare them,” Coates told Ovacion.

“But having the help of Luis Suarez would be very important. I will be going to England, we are just missing a few details now.

“The Liverpool offer ticks all boxes, so fair to say it’s a done deal. Luis’s success is important for me as another Uruguayan joining.

“Liverpool is a club with great tradition and history, and Luis would be a great help to me. Suarez has spoken to Kenny Dalglish and his managers about my signing.

“He said it will be great having a Uruguayan with him, we chatted for quite a while, as he is someone I know well.”

Coates shunned offers from elsewhere in Europe and admits he was waiting for the Premier League.

“My intention was always to wait, there were many rumours that I wanted England, but nothing concrete. Fortunately we have now received the offer,” he said.

Coates, who has Scottish ancestry, does not qualify for a work permit automatically as he has not played in enough games but he would almost certainly be granted one on appeal.

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