Manchester City have completed the £5.2million signing of Argentine ‘mini Messi’ Dario Sarmiento from Estudiantes.

The Premier League leaders boast one of the best academy setups in the country, and are always keen to bolster their ranks with fresh talent from abroad.

The 18-year-old has drawn comparisons to his compatriot Lionel Messi for his speed and ability on the ball and has been described as a ‘mini’ version of the Barcelona star.

City have been tracking the youngster for some time and began talks to sign him in December, as reported by Sportsmail.

He will officially join the Premier League side in the summer after Estudiantes confirmed the £5.2m deal, which will include add-ons.

In addition to a £5.2m fee, Estudiantes will receive a 20 per cent sell on clause.

Sarmiento will officially become a City player on July 1, Estudiantes have confirmed.

In a statement, the Argentine club said: ‘We can reveal that, upon completion of the transfer agreement signed with Manchester City, Dario Sarmiento will join the English team from July 1 onwards.’

Sarmiento is left-footed, 5ft 6 in and an Argentine youth international – meaning comparisons with Messi have been inevitable.