Middlesbrough sign former Manchester City striker Alvaro Negredo – Twitter reacts

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Rewind to 2013, and Alvaro Negredo was one of Europe’s most in demand strikers, having scored 31 goals in 42 games for Sevilla. Manchester City were the ones to secure the ex-Real Madrid striker’s services for a fee of just over £16 million plus add-ons. Now, Negredo is the latest addition to Aitor Karanka’s Spanish Armada at Riverside as Middlesbrough prepare for a return to the Premier League.

In fairness, Negredo did well at Manchester City. Battling with the likes of Edin Dzeko and Sergio Aguero for game time, he scored 23 goals in 49 games, despite only completing 90 minutes in 10 of those games. With a proven track record, it is clear to see why Karanka wanted to bring him in when Valencia decided he should be moved on in an attempt to free up wages for new boss Pako Ayresteran to build his new look side.

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Despite being appointed vice captain under Gary Neville for a brief period, and managing 12 goals last season, Negredo had previously been ostracised by former manager Nuno and never really connected with fans. They begrudged the obligatory £24 million purchase clause in his loan contract when he initially joined and his big wages making him a top earner at the club.

Now back in England, Negredo will be keen for a new start and to return to his best. Strong and powerful, Negredo suits the English style of football, and will bring experience at the very top level to the newly promoted north east side. He’ll be supported by former Valencia team mate Antonio Barragan, with the right back sure to be putting crosses into the box for Negredo.

It also represents Karanka and Steve Gibson’s determination to secure their top transfer targets, alongside the likes of Victor Valdes, many of whom would be considered a coup for a side playing in the Championship last season.

Here is how Twitter reacted to the news…

Boro fans were delighted…

https://twitter.com/davinamfc/status/755758004738416644

And neutrals were impressed…

https://twitter.com/liambekker/status/755801266371039232

https://twitter.com/dailymesut/status/755759696687030272

His record is unquestionable…

But many pointed out the decline in his career…

And Valencia fans didn’t seem too disappointed…

https://twitter.com/offlinemartinez/status/755790748600131585

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