PEP GUARDIOLA is preparing to bring the ‘new Lionel Messi’ into Manchester City’s struggling lineup next month.

The 18-year-old Argentine prodigy Claudio Echeverri, will make his move from River Plate following a £12 million transfer deal concluded a year prior.

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City previously permitted him to stay in Argentina for an additional season as the South American club sought to maintain him even longer.

However, manager Guardiola has opted to integrate the attacking midfielder during the second half of the campaign.

Consequently, Echeverri will be relocating to England in the new year to train with the first team for the remainder of the season.

He is expected to contribute immediately, but he might need some time to adjust to his new surroundings.

City had also considered sending the young talent to one of their sister clubs in order to gain experience in Europe.

This could still be an option for the summer if he is determined not yet ready to compete for a spot in Pep’s lineup.

Meanwhile, the Etihad chief acknowledged over the weekend the significant shortage of options he faces due to various injuries.

Echeverri will be afforded every opportunity to demonstrate he can adapt to the setup.

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Last winter, the reigning Premier League champions triumphed over worldwide competition to acquire the captain of the Argentina Under-17 team.

His style of play and position have led to comparisons with Argentina’s World Cup-winning captain and Barcelona legend Messi, whom Guardiola played a crucial role in evolving into a superstar during his tenure at the Spanish club.

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Echeverri made his first team debut with River 18 months ago and has since become a regular starter.

His arrival follows the conclusion of hearings concerning the 130 allegations of Financial Fair Play breaches against City initiated by the Premier League.

A three-member panel that has been studying the evidence for the last three months will now assess the findings before issuing a report.

The earliest a verdict is expected is in the spring, although there is a chance it could extend into the following season.

These hearings began on September 16 at the International Dispute Resolution Centre in London, originally projected to last for ten weeks.

This timeframe has been extended by approximately two weeks, but it is understood that closing arguments were submitted at the end of last week.

City, owned by Abu Dhabi, also faces accusations of non-cooperation with the investigation, which commenced in 2018, regarding their alleged FFP violations.

If proven guilty, they could incur major point deductions, leading to potential relegation.

However, both parties reserve the right to appeal any resolution if they are unsatisfied, suggesting that further months may pass before any penalties are enforced.

What will happen to Man City?

MAN CITY kicked off the season as favorites to win the Premier League title again – yet there’s a considerable challenge ahead that could threaten the Etihad club.

Sunsport’s MARTIN LIPTON delves into potential consequences in the upcoming months with Head of Sport SHAUN CUSTIS…

Custis: So, the crucial question – will a resolution be reached this season?

Lipton: Yes…. likely! It will take at least a month to sort through the evidence. Thus, I predict a decision around March or April. That’s where it becomes complicated.

Custis: What makes it complicated?

Lipton: If the ruling is in City’s favor, then that’s the end of it. They will incur no sanctions.

However, if City is found guilty, the repercussions will be unprecedented in terms of penalties imposed by the Premier League.

I fear that if they are guilty, it could result in their expulsion from the league or drastic point deductions that would bar them from competing in the Premier League next season.

Check out the full discussion on Man City’s future.