• Premier League

Coates ready to snub Man City for Liverpool

ESPN staff
August 24, 2011
Sebastian Coates is looking forward to linking up with a Uruguay team-mate © PA Photos
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In-demand Uruguayan defender Sebastian Coates has revealed he plans to turn down late interest from Manchester City in order to join international team-mate Luis Suarez at Liverpool.

Coates, 20, has been the subject of a bid from the Anfield club this week - with a deal worth around £8 million set to be agreed between the Reds and Coates' current club Nacional.

Manchester City are also believed to have revived their interest in the uncompromising defender, after cooling their desire earlier in the summer following the signing of Stefan Savic. While Coates will study the offers from both clubs, he has admitted the presence of Suarez on Merseyside has tipped the balance firmly in Liverpool's favour.

He also claims the move to Anfield is a 'done deal'.

"I'd prefer Liverpool to Manchester City, but would need to see what they have to offer and would compare them," Coates told Uruguayan newspaper 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."

Having attracted interest from around Europe, Coates is delighted to finally be on the verge of making the switch to the Premier League.

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

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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