Eliaquim Mangala is congratulated by Aly Cissokho after scoring for FC Porto. Source: Getty Images

Strengthening City’s defence has been one of the priorities of manager Manuel Pellegrini. The 23-year-old Mangala will compete with Argentina international Martin Demichelis to partner Vincent Kompany at centre back.

“He is already a fine player but in my opinion, he has all of the mental, physical, technical and tactical attributes to become one of Europe’s very best defender,” said Pellegrini, who already has signed right back Bacary Sagna and goalkeeper Willy Caballero.

“Eliaquim is a player I believe will make an immediate impact in the Premier League, thanks to his physicality, his reading of the game and quality on the ball.”

Eliaquim Mangala in a Portuguese league match between FC Porto and Estoril at Dragao stadium. Source: AP

City didn’t disclose the length of Mangala’s contract or the cost of the transfer, but the reported fee would put Mangala on the list of the club’s most expensive players, along with forwards Carlos Tevez, Sergio Aguero and Robinho.

Mangala came close to joining City in January but didn’t complete a move that was then earmarked for the off-season.

He is the sixth recruit since City clinched its second Premier League title in May, after Sagna, Caballero and midfielders Fernando, Frank Lampard and Bruno Zuculini.

Mangala was in France’s squad at the World Cup but didn’t play a game in the team’s run to the quarterfinals. He has made three international appearances and has experience of playing in the Champions League.