Fabrizio Romano said on Tuesday that Manchester City are closing in on a deal for Stefan Ortega which will result in Zach Steffen being moved on. The 29-year-old will sign a long-term contract to be the Sky Blues’ No.2 goalkeeper, so Steffan is being loaned out as he’s deemed surplus to requirements.
Just two months ago, the 27-year-old started between the sticks in City’s FA Cup semi-final clash with Liverpool, but he made two mistakes as his side suffered a 3-2 defeat at Wembley.
With City already 1-0 down, Steffen dwelled on a backpass and Sadio Mane’s sliding tackle ended up with the ball in the back of the net. And for Liverpool’s third goal, the US international was beaten at the near post from a low volley from Mane.
Steffen clearly hasn’t recovered from the mistakes as he’s now heading to Middlesbrough on a season-long loan – a side who finished outside of the Championship playoffs in 2021/22. The 27-year-old still has three years left on his deal at the Etihad Stadium, but it’s hard to see him getting his spot back.
Steffen joined City from Columbus Crew in 2019 and has gone on to make 21 appearances in all competitions, conceding 16 goals with eight clean sheets. He may have played his final game for the Premier League champions, however.