Central Coast Mariners have confirmed they have agreed to terms with English Premier League Club Manchester City for the transfer of Anthony Caceres, though it’s unclear if the midfielder will be loaned out to City’s Hyundai A-League club Melbourne City.
“We can’t comment on [a potential loan move] but of course everybody knows he’s a good player, he’s one of the better players in the A-League. So we’ll just have to see,” said Melbourne City coach John van ‘t Schip when asked by reporters on Friday.
Van ‘t Schip added that even if a loan deal for Caceres, 23, could be completed on Friday, he will not rush the play maker into his squad for Saturday night’s clash in Perth.
A product of the Mariners Foxtel National Youth league set up, Caceres inked his first professional contract with the club in 2012 and enjoyed a breakout season during 2014/15 that saw the crafty midfielder win the 2015 Mariners Medal.
The Championship winning number 10 made 62 Hyundai A-League appearances for the Mariners along with three AFC Champions League campaigns.
Caceres was plucked from Marconi Stallions by current coach Tony Walmsley who is looking forward to seeing the 23-year-old reach his potential on the world football stage.
“We need to celebrate when players at the Central Coast Mariners are sold to bigger clubs. It’s our charter. It’s our intent,” Walmsley said.
“When I brought Anthony Caceres to the Mariners his potential was obvious. This move demonstrates how far Anthony has progressed.”
Manchester City also purchased former Brisbane Roar midfielder Luke Brattan earlier this season.
