Confirmed Summer Transfers (2013/14)

[King Binny]

Steven Caulker - Cardiff (reportedly £8-9 million)

Cardiff City can this evening confirm the Club record signing of England international Steven Caulker from Tottenham Hotspur.

Twenty-one year old centre-half Steven joins City on a four year deal having completed his medical on Wednesday, and will link up with his new team-mates on Thursday morning for training.

Having signed a professional deal with Spurs in the summer of 2009, Steven established himself in Andre Villas-Boas’ starting eleven at White Hart Lane last season, going on to make twenty-eight first-team appearances.

Goals against Aston Villa and Manchester City in the Barclays Premier League preceded his first goal for England – that coming on his senior debut against Sweden in November. The Feltham-born defender also made five appearances for Great Britain during the 2012 London Olympic Games.

Speaking exclusively to Cardiff City Player on Wednesday afternoon, Steven said: “First and foremost I want to say how happy I am to have signed with Cardiff City Football Club. I’m delighted to be here and excited for this fresh challenge.

“I spoke to the Gaffer yesterday, liked what he had to say and am excited about the plans he has for the Football Club. You get the sense of excitement from everybody at the Club in the build-up to the season’s kick-off at West Ham and I’m really looking forward to being part of it.

“I thank Tottenham for everything they’ve done for me, having been there since I was a kid. But I’m here to back myself up now and show what I can do. This is a fresh start, a new chapter and I’m here to kick on.”

Club record signing

 

[King Binny]

Andrew Surman - Bournemouth (loan)

AFC Bournemouth has today completed the loan signing of Norwich City midfielder Andrew Surman.

The 26-year-old midfielder, who has represented England at under-21 level, will join the newly promoted Cherries on a season-long loan after arriving at the Goldsands Stadium today.

South African born Surman is no stranger to the club. Having started his career at south coast rivals Southampton, during August 2005 and January 2006 he was loaned to the Cherries – playing every match during this time, scoring six goals.

He then went on to form an integral part in the Saints first team, before moving on to Wolverhampton Wanderers and Norwich City – playing in the side that got promoted to the Premier League.

Surman is Eddie Howe’s fourth addition of the summer to the squad, and he will link up with fellow new signing Elliott Ward, who played alongside Surman for the Canaries.

 

[King Binny]

Bongani Khumalo - Doncaster (loan)

Doncaster Rovers have taken Tottenham Hotspur’s current South African international captain Bongani Khumalo on a season long loan.

Khumalo played in Rovers’ 2-1 victory over Bradford City last Saturday partnering Rob Jones in central defence.

His ability to read the game and his defensive qualities were evident in that game, and manager Paul Dickov has acted quickly to secure the highly rated South African on a long term loan deal.

The 26-year-old defender signed for Spurs for a fee of £1.5 million, from Supersport United in 2010, after three years with the South African giants.

Khumalo is the current captain of the South African national team and has made 26 appearances for Bafana Bafana since his debut in 2008.

Khumalo was named in the South African squad for the 2009 Confederations Cup and 2010 FIFA World Cup, both in South Africa.

Upon the completion of his move Bongani said: “I’m very pleased to be here. I’m very happy that things have worked out and I’m just looking forward to the start of the season.

“All the lads have been really welcoming, which really helps. I’ve had a lot of support from the skipper and everyone has made it really easy to make the transition.

“Dean [Furman] and I have met before having played in the national team, so it was great to come here and see a familiar face.”

Harry Forrester - Doncaster (free transfer)

Doncaster Rovers are pleased to announce the signing of former Aston Villa and Brentford attacking midfielder Harry Forrester.

Forrester began his footballing education in the youth set up at Watford and immediately impressed attracting interest from top Premier League clubs.

In January 2008 Aston Villa paid a fee of around £250,000 for the then seventeen year old beating the likes of Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspurs to his signature.

Forrester made an instant impact, after joining Villa, helping the U18s side to FA Premier Academy League glory in his first season in the Midlands.

He went on to become a regular starter in the Villa reserve team helping them to the Reserve League title in 2010.

After seeing his contract out at Aston Villa, the impressive Forrester went on trial at Dutch giants Ajax. Scoring a hat-trick for the Ajax reserve side he received high praise from manager Frank de Boer and was subsequently offered a deal with the four-time European Cup winners.

Forrester decided to turn the chance to play in the Netherlands down and opted to sign for League One club Brentford instead.

A string of eye-catching performances during the 2012/13 season helped the Bees to a place in the League One play-off final at Wembley.

Forrester, 22, now joins Paul Dickov’s side on a three year contract.

Forrester spoke exclusively to Rovers Player upon joining the club and expressed his delight at having finalised the deal: “I’m very excited to be here, I’ve been here a while now and have got to know the lads and the manager and I’m really excited for the season ahead.

“As soon as I met Paul [Dickov] and John [Ryan] it became a no brainier for me; I spoke to my agent straight away and told him I thought Doncaster is the place for me. The deal was done a couple of days after that and now I’m just really happy to get things going.

“There’s a good core to the team here, we will have to add a couple of new faces which I’m sure the backroom staff are looking at now. The team and players that we have got here at the moment are good enough but with further additions we can give it a real go – it’s not going to be easy but we have got to enjoy it.”

Ross Turnbull - Doncaster (free transfer)

Doncaster Rovers are pleased to announce the signing of former Chelsea and Middlesbrough goalkeeper Ross Turnbull.

Ross arrives at the club after seeing out his contract at Premier League side Chelsea and has signed a one-year deal.

Rovers had been without a first choice ‘keeper, after both Neil Sullivan and Gary Woods left the club during the closed season.

After progressing through the youth set up at Middlesbrough, in 2002 Ross signed his first professional contract at the age of seventeen.

As a young professional Ross enjoyed loan spells at various club including Bradford City, Barnsley and Cardiff City.

After long serving goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer left ‘Boro in 2011, Ross fought his way into the first team at the Riverside Stadium. Ross made 27 appearances for Gareth Southgate’s ‘Boro before leaving the north east to sign for Chelsea.

During his time at Chelsea, Ross represented the Blues in both the UEFA Champions League and Premier League.

After the expiration of his contract with Chelsea, Ross left Stamford Bridge in search of regular first team football.

We anticipate that Ross will be available for selection for the first game of he season against Blackpool on Saturday.

Ross will wear the number 1 shirt during his time at the club.

 

[King Binny]

Tyrrell Belford - Swindon (free transfer)

Swindon Town have signed goalkeeper Tyrell Belford on a two-year deal following his release by Liverpool.

Belford joined the academy system at Anfield in 2009, having spent time on the books at Coventry City.

The 19-year-old is the son of former keeper and current Tamworth manager Dale Belford, who played alongside Swindon's caretaker boss Mark Cooper.

He has yet to make a senior appearance but told BBC Wiltshire: "I've just got to come here and work hard."

Belford continued: "I've played a few games at Under 21 level and I've been away with the Liverpool first team so it's been brilliant for me.

"I've heard a lot of good things about Swindon and it's on the way up. I've seen the manager has got belief in the young players, so it's great for me."

Belford, whose brother Cameron played in League One with Bury, will compete for a place in the squad with first-choice Wes Foderingham and back-up keeper Leigh Bedwell.

"I'm not going to put any pressure on myself to do anything," he added.

"But if I can get some first-team experience that would be brilliant."

 

[ILD]

Two things.

One, how on earth did Turnbull get away with winning some big medals at Chelsea.

Two, look at the start that keeper below him. Smug head on him.

 

[King Binny]

Roberto Soldado - Tottenham (reportedly £26 million)

We are delighted to announce that we have reached agreement with Valencia for the transfer of Roberto Soldado subject to medical.

The striker netted 80 times in 146 appearances during his time at the Mestalla who he joined from Getafe in 2010, after impressing with a tally of 29 goals in 60 league appearances.

The 28-year-old began his career at Real Madrid where he scored 63 goals in 120 league appearances for the B side, Real Madrid Castilla, also featuring on 16 occasions for the First Team either side of a loan move to Osasuna in season 2006-7 when he scored 11 goals in 30 appearances before moving to Getafe in 2008.

The Spain international now has 11 caps to his name and is the scorer of six goals for his country, with his most recent appearances coming in the Confederations Cup, staged in Brazil in June.

 

[King Binny]

Charlie Austin - QPR (undisclosed fee, reportedly £3-4 million)

QUEENS Park Rangers Football Club are delighted to announce the signing of prolific marksman Charlie Austin.

The 24 year-old has penned a three year deal at Loftus Road, after Rangers agreed an undisclosed fee with Burnley for the striker’s services.

Austin – who will wear the number nine shirt – arrives with an outstanding goalscoring record, having enjoyed goal-laden spells at Burnley and Swindon Town.

In his 75 starts for the Clarets, he netted 45 goals in all competitions, whilst his overall career record equates to a strike-rate of better than one goal in every two games.

R’s boss Harry Redknapp believes Austin’s fire-power will perfectly complement the attacking options he already has at his disposal, commenting: “Charlie’s an out-and-out goalscorer and we’re delighted to have him here.

“He’s scored goals wherever he’s played throughout his career and I’m very confident he’ll take his game to the next level with us.

“I’ve got no doubt that if we give him the right service he will score a lot of goals for us.

“He’s young, he’s hungry and he’s up for the challenge of helping us get out of this division.”

Austin, who could be in line to make his R’s debut against Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday, expressed his delight at sealing a move to West London, adding: “I’m really pleased to be here.

“Harry spoke to me at length about the ambition of the club and the desire to return to the Premier League and that’s where I want to be as well with QPR.

“This is a really exciting time for me and I can’t wait to pull on the QPR shirt for the first time.

“I’ll come in, give my all and hopefully score the goals that ensure we have a memorable season.”

 

[King Binny]

Matias Silvestre - AC Milan (loan with option to buy)

Inter have made Matias Silvestre’s move to city rivals Milan official with a brief message on their website.

“Internazionale would like to announce that Argentinian defender Matias Silvestre has joined Milan on loan,” it read. “The Rossoneri have an option to make the deal permanent.”

The 28-year-old, left out of Inter’s pre-season training squad, leaves the Nerazzurri just a year after his arrival from Palermo.

He appeared in 20 games for the Beneamata last season across Serie A, the Coppa Italia and the Europa League.

Matias Silvestre is looking to resurrect his Serie A career after completing his move from Inter to city rivals Milan.

The Argentine has joined the Diavolo on loan after Daniele Bonera was ruled out of action for the next three months.

“This is not the moment to make any promises,” he told the Gazzetta dello Sport. “I’ll look to do my talking with facts.

“I know that there is a massive wall to scale in front of me, but I have no fear.”

Silvestre was told to find a new club this summer after being omitted from Inter’s pre-season training squad just a year after his arrival from Palermo.

However, he rejected a number of possible moves before his Diavolo switch.

“I had nothing against Parma or Genoa,” he added. “I thank the two clubs for their interest, but I was hoping for a high level solution.

“Fortunately Milan didn’t forget about me. I could not have hoped for any better.”

The 28-year-old centre-back featured in just nine Serie A games for Andrea Stramaccioni’s Inter side in 2012-13.

“Everything went wrong from the start,” he responded when asked about his difficulties with the Nerazzurri.

“An injury affected my pre-season and when I got a game I perhaps pushed too hard to be noticed.

“The Coach then changed system and results arrived with the three-man defence. It was an uphill battle for me.

“However, Milan play with a four-man defence, something that I prefer and that reassures me.

“I don’t really want to find excuses though. It was a horrible season for everyone. It went badly and that is it.”

 

[King Binny]

Jack Robinson - Blackpool (Youth loan)

Left-back Jack Robinson has agreed a move to Blackpool on a season-long youth loan from Liverpool.

The 19-year-old England Under-21 international will wear the number three shirt and links-up with his new team-mates prior to this weekend's fixture against Doncaster Rovers.

Robinson, who knows Thomas Ince and Nathan Eccleston from their respective times at Anfield, spent a short time on loan to Wolverhampton Wanderers last season, making 11 league appearances.

As part of the agreement, Liverpool will retain the option to recall the player after 28 days.

 

[King Binny]

Leon Barnett - Wigan (undisclosed fee, reportedly £500k)

Wigan Athletic are delighted to confirm the signing of 27-year-old defender Leon Barnett from Norwich City on a three-year deal for an undisclosed fee.

After successfully undergoing a medical at the DW Stadium, Barnett completed the switch to become Owen Coyle’s ninth signing of the summer transfer window.

Coyle said: “As Manager, to see the desire Leon has to play for Wigan Athletic is tremendous and we’re all delighted to have enticed a player of his calibre to our club.

“He has shown his qualities in the Premier League on numerous occasions and has the experience of being successful in a division as tough as the Championship, winning promotion on three separate occasions.

“That kind of experience for someone who is still only 27 years old is fantastic, and I believe that whilst he has much maturity in his play he also has huge potential to become an even better player here at Wigan Athletic.”

Barnett joins the club after three years spent at Carrow Road, having signed for Norwich in 2010 on loan from West Bromwich Albion before making the move permanent a year later in 2011.

The centre-half made 50 league appearances for the Canaries, scoring two goals and played alongside current Latics striker Grant Holt.

Barnett began his career at Luton Town, moving to The Hawthorns in 2007 where he spent four years, which included a loan spell at Coventry City, before moving to Norwich.

The defender will wear the number 25 shirt this season.

John McGinlay - Wigan (Chief Scout)

Wigan Athletic are delighted to announce the appointment of John McGinlay as the club’s new Chief Scout.

The former Bolton Wanderers and Scotland striker arrives at the DW Stadium after a year spent scouting for the Scottish Football Association, prior to which he had been coaching in the USA for the Cincinnati Kings, for whom he finished career with and played a key role in helping develop the club’s youth academy.

Manager Owen Coyle spoke of the latest addition to his backroom staff, saying:

“John is someone who I have known for a very long time, having played together and worked closely off the pitch.

“He has a wealth of experience, a fantastic eye for talent and a real desire to help bring success to Wigan Athletic.

“I’m delighted to have him on board and can’t wait to start working with him once again.”

McGinlay’s playing career spanned an impressive 28 years, beginning in 1978 for Fort William before ending seven years ago in the USA, earning 13 caps for his country in the process and scoring four goals.

At club level he made 336 league appearances and scored 137 goals during his career, the majority of which coming during his time at Bolton Wanderers between 1992 and 1997.

 

[DHSC]

Fucking hell, McGinlay has really let himself go.

 

[Judge Jules]

Lyon president apparently saying they've agreed a deal with Newcastle for Bafetimbi Gomis.

Newcastle are going down at this rate. Gomis is pure unadulterated crapola.

 

[King Binny]

Emre Can - Leverkusen (undisclosed fee)

Bayer 04 have signed Germany U21 international Emre Can (19) from Bayern Munich on a four-year contract to 30 June 2017. No further details have been disclosed.

“Emre Can is one of the Germany’s best prospects in midfield. We are absolutely convinced he will be a top player herein the next few years,” declared Bayer 04 managing director in commenting on the deal agreed with the Frankfurt-born youngster who was awarded the Fritz Walter medal for the best German youth player in 2011. Bayer 04 sporting director Rudi Völler said: “Emre Can is a versatile player with great potential and he’s bound to develop here with us.”

The move to Bayer 04 presents the 19-year-old Can with the chance to establish himself in the Bundesliga and on the European stage: “Bayer 04 Leverkusen are one of the top teams in the Bundesliga and they are also in the Champions League. I want to play my part in making sure we’re successful in all competitions in the coming seasons.”

FC Bayern Munich and Bayer 04 Leverkusen have agreed terms on the transfer of Germany U-21 international Emre Can. The 19-year-old midfielder moves immediately to Bayern’s Bundesliga rivals, where he will put his name to a four-year contract. FC Bayern have retained the option of bringing Emre Can back to Munich at some point in the future. All other details of the agreement remain undisclosed.

“Emre Can is one of the biggest talents in German football,” commented FC Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, “we’ve taken this step to ensure he gains sufficient match practice, as we’ve done in the past with the likes of Toni Kroos in Leverkusen, Philipp Lahm with VfB Stuttgart and David Alaba in Hoffenheim.”

 

[Stulikesdrums]

I keep an eye on Ipswich and I think McCarthy is doing some very good business there.

 

[King Binny]

Diego Lugano - West Brom (free transfer)

ALBION have boosted their central defensive options this evening by signing Uruguay captain Diego Lugano from French champions Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer.

The 6ft2in defender has penned a two-year deal after passing a medical. The transfer is now subject to international clearance.

Lugano, who will wear the No.14 shirt, arrives at The Hawthorns with a wealth of international, Champions League and top-flight experience from across the globe.

He spent last season on loan at a Malaga side which finished sixth in La Liga and reached the Champions League quarter-finals under new Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini.

Lugano has captained Uruguay on 77 occasions – more than any other player.

He is also the second highest capped player in his country’s history, with only ex-Manchester United striker Diego Forlan having represented Uruguay more times.

Lugano, who boasts nine international goals, won his 86th cap in Uruguay’s Confederations Cup third/fourth place play-off with Italy in Brazil in June.

The 32-year-old defender has also lifted the 2011 Copa America trophy – after beating Paraguay 3-0 in the final – and helped Uruguay reach the 2010 World Cup semi-finals.

Head coach Steve Clarke said: “I’m delighted to welcome Diego to the club.

“He’s an experienced centre-half who will increase competition in that area of the team.

“This is a tough league. You need as many good players in your squad as you can get – and Diego is undoubtedly one of those.

“Like some of the others we have here, Diego is another player who captains his country and is a leader.

“He has a real hunger and ambition to play and succeed in the Barclays Premier League and he will hopefully get a platform here to show everyone what he can do.

“However, Diego knows he’s got a fight on his hands to get into the team.

“Over the past couple of seasons, Gareth McAuley and Jonas Olsson have been an established Premier League pairing with stiff competition from Gabriel Tamas and young Craig Dawson, who we believe will be a good centre-half for this club in years to come.”

Lugano has become the Baggies’ third summer signing, with the club having already secured the services of Nicolas Anelka on a permanent deal and Goran Popov on loan for the season.

Sporting & Technical Director (designate), Richard Garlick, added: “We identified central defence as one of the areas within the squad in which we wanted to increase competition this summer.

“Diego is a player we have been aware of for the past couple of years and when we discovered he wouldn’t be rejoining Malaga, we made our move.

“We have very much done our homework on Diego. His CV speaks for itself and we’ve also received glowing reports about him as a person.

“But the good thing is that Diego has also done his homework on us. I understand he’s spoken to the likes of Gus Poyet and Luis Suarez about the club and Steve, who they have both worked with, and, on the back of this, Diego very much wanted to join us.

“He had other attractive offers but we’re delighted he has agreed to join us. His game is very much suited for the Premier League.”

Lugano was signed by Antoine Kombouare for PSG in August 2011. Injury limited him to 12 appearances for the Ligue One superpower before he joined Malaga a year ago.

Lugano started his career in his native city with Club Atletico de Canelones. Shortly after turning 18, he joined the youth set-up at Montevideo giants Nacional.

He was involved in the side that won back-to-back championships in 2000 and 2001 but went on loan to Plaza Colonia in 2002, where he was made club captain.

Lugano joined Brazilian outfit Sao Paulo the following year, going on to win the FIFA Club World Championship and Copa Libertadores in 2005.

The Brazilian 2006 Serie A title followed and he was voted the top defender in the country for the second successive season.

Later that year, he made the switch to Turkish side Fenerbahce where he spent five trophy-laden years, scoring an impressive 29 times. He helped them win two Super Lig titles, two Turkish Super Cups, one Turkish Cup and also reach the 2007/08 Champions League quarter-finals before moving to PSG.

"I am very pleased to join West Bromwich Albion for the next two years," Lugano wrote on Twitter.

"I'm doing something that has been missing in my career, playing in the Premier League, without doubt the most beautiful and competitive league in the world.

"The challenge is to match what West Bromwich achieved last season and trying to go a step further to reach European competitions."

A PSG statement read: "Paris Saint-Germain thanks Lugano for the professionalism he has shown throughout his contract and wishes him well in the English league."

 

[King Binny]

Chuks Aneke - Crewe (6 mth loan)

Crewe Alexandra can confirm that Chuks Aneke has signed on a six-month loan deal from Arsenal. The former England Youth International, 20, signed his forms at Arsenal earlier today and is making his way up to South Cheshire to rejoin his former team-mates ahead of the new season.

Aneke, scored 8 goals in 38 appearances for Crewe last season and helped the club lift the Johnstone's Paint Trophy for the first time in our history. Aneke has recently been on Arsenal's pre-season trip to Asia, but has been allowed out on loan to gain regular first-team football.

Aneke will be wearing the number 26 - the same as last season.

Crewe are still awaiting official clearance from the Football League ahead of tomorrow's opening fixture.

 

[King Binny]

Elliot Grandin - Crystal Palace (free transfer)

Crystal Palace are pleased to confirm the signing of free agent Elliot Grandin on a one-year deal, subject to Premier League and FA approval.

Eagles manager Ian Holloway, who worked with the French midfielder at Blackpool, moved to snap up the 25-year-old after his Tangerines contract expired earlier this year. His deal in SE25 includes an option for a further 12-month extension.

Grandin played 45 minutes of Palace’s pre-season victory over Dagenham and Redbridge during a trial period and impressed the gaffer enough to earn a permanent deal at Selhurst Park.

The former France under-21 international has spent much of his career in his homeland, after signing his first professional contract with SM Caen in 2004.

He became a key part of the squad that won promotion to Ligue 1 in 2006/07, making 23 appearances and scoring twice. He was limited to 12 games in the French top flight though, before joining Marseille in January 2008.

Grandin helped the club reach the Champions League, making his European debut in the third qualifying round of the competition against Norwegian side, Brann. But following a loan spell at Grenoble Foot, he fell out of favour with manager Eric Gerets and was released from his contract in September 2009.

In January 2010, Grandin left his home country for the first time after signing an 18-month deal with Bulgarian outfit CSKA Sofia, helping them finish second in the 2009/10 season.

He began the 2010/11 campaign in Bulgaria, but was signed by Holloway to strengthen his Blackpool squad for their Premier League push. Grandin made his debut for the seasiders in the club’s 4-0 opening day win over Wigan, scoring his first goal for the club in the 1-1 draw with Aston Villa in February 2011. He made 24 Premier League appearances in total.

Despite the club’s relegation to the Championship, Grandin stayed at Blackpool, scoring the equaliser against Palace as the Tangerines came from behind to win 2-1, in January 2012.

A week later, the Frenchman jetted back to his homeland for a loan spell with Nice, before returning to Blackpool for the start of the 2012/13 campaign.

Grandin appeared 12 times for Blackpool in the Championship last season, scoring three times and laying on three assists. He left the club at the end of June with an overall record of four goals in 42 games.

Speaking to Palace Player after signing a deal to keep him in England, Grandin said: “I’m very excited. I had a very good year in the Premier League with the gaffer, so I’m excited to start the new season.

“We had a very good run [at Blackpool]. I think the team played well, but we were unlucky at the end because we went down. We had a very, very good year though, we enjoyed it and I hope it will be the same with Crystal Palace.”

Grandin added that he is looking forward to testing himself in the Premier League once again. “It’s very nice because every game is a new challenge,” he said.

“It’s like a cup final every game. You play against great players, great teams, so you have to be focused on your football and everyone has to give their best because it’s a difficult league – the best league in the world, I think.

“All the teams are very good. In the French league or in the Spanish league, you have six strong teams, but I think in the Premier League I think all the teams are very strong. Everybody can beat everybody, so it’s hard to say who will stay up, who will go down.

“If we work together and the team is confident, anything is possible.”

 

[King Binny]

Henri Bedimo - Lyon (€2 million plus add ons)

Cameroon international defender Henri Bedimo signed a three-year contract with Olympique Lyonnais on Thursday.

The rumours have been confirmed: Henri Bedimo is a Lyon player. "It has been a very long day. It started at 9am, but the main thing is that everything went well. I'm very happy to have joined OL. It was my first choice and a great opportunity. Everyone worked hard to make this move happen. I can't wait to meet my new teammates on Friday."

"My goal is to play in the Champions League again. I hope everything goes well in Zurich where I won't be able to play. In general terms, I want to help write another great chapter into the history of this club."

"I started preseason training a little late because I was involved in Cameroon's World Cup qualifiers. I needed to take a break after that. I had a good rest and took a break from football. I returned on 14 July with Montpellier. I went on their second training camp. I will keep getting fitter, because that is a crucial part of my game, I have to be in top form to play well. I feel good already. That wasn't the case this time last season and that meant my preseason was disrupted and it affected my performances."

"OL have won seven Ligue 1 titles. That says it all. They are a huge team in France and in Europe. They are on a new dynamic now. I hope to win trophies here. When you play for OL you have to perform."

"I am a hard worker. I love to get forward and help the attack. I love challenging for the ball, both in attack and defence. I want to play well all over the park. Shooting? I don't get too many chances to shoot at goal, but when I do, I just try to get it on target. This is one of the best jobs in the world. I'm very happy and I love football."

"I needed time to mature, to get a little wiser. When I went to Ligue 2, I worked hard. I don't regret dropping a division at all. That was a real step forward in my career. My youth club was Toulouse. Then Le Havre showed my professionalism. Châteauroux was great fun. Lens was tough and Montpellier was very successful."

While he is not qualified to play against Grasshoppers of Zurich next week, Henri will be ready for the visit of Nice in Week 1 of the Ligue 1. His first few weeks will be closely watched as he follows in te footsteps of other Indomitable Lions to have played for OL, such as N’Jo Léa, N’Dioro, Job, Billong, Foé, Makoun… as well as those of Cameroon origins such as Boumsong and Umtiti…

 

[King Binny]

Michel Bastos - Al Ain (reportedly €4 million)

Al Ain have signed Lyon’s Brazil international Michel Bastos, who spent much of last season playing in the Bundesliga with Schalke 04, the UAE side announced on Friday.

In a statement on their website, Al Ain confirmed: “The club have finally reached an agreement with Lyon about the transfer of the Brazilian Michel Bastos.

“He is scheduled to arrive at Abu Dhabi International Airport on Saturday so as to complete the procedures to officially join Al Ain.”

The versatile winger, who turned 30 on Friday, has turned out 10 times for Brazil, scoring once. He joined multiple former French champions Lyon from Ligue 1 rivals Lille in 2009.

No details on the length of the contract or size of the transfer were revealed by the club.

 

[King Binny]

Marlon Pack - Bristol City (compensation)

City have completed the signing of midfielder Marlon Pack on a two-year deal.

The club has agreed compensation terms with Cheltenham Town, where Pack had been playing last season until his deal ran out in the summer.

The 22-year-old has been training with City for the past week but has now put pen to paper and is in the squad for tomorrow’s season opener against Bradford City at Ashton Gate (3pm).

Head coach Sean O’Driscoll told bcfc.co.uk: “Marlon Pack has been on our radar all summer and the boy and his agent have always made it clear that this was his preferred destination.

“As a player who attracted rave reviews for Cheltenham, and has been in the League Two team of the year twice, it was no surprise he had a number of suitors.

“But the fact he was prepared to come in and train with us while we tried to work out the logistics of a move, and with no guarantees it would be definite, said a lot about his attitude and character.

“He ticks all the boxes for the type of player we have focused our recruitment on this summer and adds another element and depth to our midfield options. I’m looking forward to working with him and seeing him develop.”

Pack began his football career at Portsmouth, coming through the South Coast’s club’s youth setup.

He spent time on loan with Wycombe Wanderers, Dagenham & Redbridge and Cheltenham Town, before turning his deal with the latter permanent in 2011.

He was often the star man for the Gloucestershire Robins and now has a new flock of Robins’ supporters to impress.

Pack takes squad number 21.

Marlon Harewood - Bristol City (free transfer)

City have agreed the signing of former West Ham United and Aston Villa forward Marlon Harewood.

The 33-year-old has penned a one-year deal after impressing in a recent trial for the club.

Head coach Sean O’Driscoll told bcfc.co.uk: “Marlon has made a big impact with the boys since he’s been here.

“Despite not even being a Bristol City player he has used his influence and experience really positively and set a fantastic example of how to be a good professional.

“The time he has spent with the younger boys especially has been invaluable and they should seize the opportunity to learn a huge amount from him.

“As a player, a fully fit Marlon still has plenty to offer and gives us another dimension to our attacking options.

“Nothing is going to faze Marlon – he’s been there and done it all before. That experience and calming influence in a young dressing room cannot be underestimated and he is a sensible addition that is not breaking the bank.”

A 6ft 1ins forward, Harewood came through Nottingham Forest’s youth ranks and played more than 200 games between 1996 and 2003, before being sold to West Ham for £500,000.

As a regular top scorer, Harewood helped the Hammers into the Premier League via the play-offs in 2005 and was involved in the FA Cup final a year later, losing on penalties to Liverpool.

Aston Villa came calling in the summer of 2007 and shelled out £4m for his services. He later joined Wolves and Newcastle United on loan, before moving to Blackpool permanently at the end of his Villa deal.

More recently Londoner Harewood has enjoyed spells in China with Guangzhou, back at his first club Forest and last season helped Barnsley survive the drop in the Championship.

Harewood is City's new number 23.

 

[King Binny]

Kamil Zayatte - Sheffield Wed (free transfer)

Sheffield Wednesday have signed Kamil Zayatte on a free transfer, subject to clearance from FIFA.

The central defender has put pen to paper on a two-year deal at Hillsborough.

Zayatte started his career with RC Lens in France before making a short hop to BSC Young Boys.

He moved to England in 2008 on a season-long loan with Hull City and went on to join the Tigers on a permanent basis for a reported fee of £2.5m.

The 28-year-old then switched to Turkey, where he played for Konyaspor and Istanbul BB.

Zayatte trained with the Owls over the summer and impressed sufficiently to earn an S6 deal.

 

[Stulikesdrums]

Good signing for WBA. Clarke doing some decent business there.

 

[King Binny]

Cristian Ansaldi - Zenit St Petersburg (€6 million)

Zenit and FC Rubin have reached an agreement for Argentinian fullback Cristian Ansaldi to move to the Blue-White-Sky Blues. Ansaldi will be arriving in Petersburg shortly.

Ansaldi will undergo a medical examination on Monday in St. Petersburg, after which he`ll sign all the necessary documents and choose a jersey number. Zenit`s contract with Ansaldi will be for 4 years.

Cristian Daniel Ansaldi was born on September 20, 1986, in the Argentinian city of Rosario, and began his career with Newell`s Old Boys. Ansaldi played 29 matches for Newell`s Old Boys` first team.

Ansaldi moved to FC Rubin in 2008. He played 130 matches for Rubin, scoring 2 goals. He twice won the Russian Premier League and the Russian Super Cup with Rubin, and was included 3 times in the list of the top 33 players of the year in the Russian Premier League.

Ansaldi was called up to the Argentinian national team for the first time in November, 2009, and has played 3 times in all for Argentina. He was last called up to the national team on July 31, 2013.

Ansaldi can play as a left or right fullback, and as a left halfback.

We welcome Cristian and his family to St. Petersburg and wish him success with the Blue-White-Sky Blues!

 

[King Binny]

Roberto Chen - Malaga (€500k)

Panama-born midfielder, Roberto Chen, was officially presented as a Málaga CF player this morning at La Rosaleda. Chen is only the second player from Panama to wear the ‘Malaguista’ shirt, after Dely Valdés. “Playing for Málaga is a dream for any footballer. I’m so ready for this new challenge. I know I’m only young and have a lot to learn, but I believe in my future and my talent and I’ll give 100 per cent in every training session,” affirms Chen.

Roberto Chen states: “I’m so happy and extremely grateful to get the chance to join a club like Málaga CF. The team has achieved so much in Spain and Europe. This year has been great for me as I achieved big things with my national team, and I hope to continue this success with Málaga CF.”

The second Panama-born player to join Málaga CF refers to his fellow countryman Dely Valdés, the current Panama coach who trained with Chen in the last CONCACAF ‘Copa de Oro’: “I know Dely Valdés had great success during his time here, which is another really great motivation for me. I hope I can leave my mark on Málaga CF too and achieve important goals both individually and with the team,” he adds.

Roberto Chen also speaks about his position on the pitch: “I’m a central defender, although I’ve also played as a right winger. I’m here for whatever the coach needs me to do.” Speaking of his heroes, Chen adds: “Fernando Hierro was an idol of mine and I also really admire Thiago Silva’s style of play.”

 

[King Binny]

Tommy Spurr - Blackburn (free transfer)

Blackburn Rovers have secured the services of highly-rated defender Tommy Spurr.

The 25-year-old arrives at Ewood Park on a free transfer from Doncaster Rovers, signing a two-year deal.

Manager Gary Bowyer was delighted to add the left-back to his squad, saying: “First and foremost, we are delighted that Tommy has agreed to join us, as there were several clubs chasing his signature.

“We have done our homework. He is a good lad and he will add extra height and energy to our back line.

“He has had a good upbringing in terms of where he learned his trade, in the Championship and League One, so he knows the demands of what is required at this level.

“He played every game for Doncaster last season and that mentality, of winning football matches and winning promotion, is something we are trying to get more of into our dressing room.”

A product of Sheffield Wednesday's Academy, Spurr would go onto make over 200 appearances for the Owls during his time at Hillsborough, before moving to fellow South Yorkshire club Doncaster Rovers in June 2011.

His first season at the Keepmoat Stadium saw Spurr feature regularly, but it was last season he made the left-back spot his own.

The defender played in all of Doncaster's games in an outstanding 2012-13 campaign, as they clinched promotion to the Championship in dramatic fashion on the final day.

Tom Cairney - Blackburn (6 mth loan)

Gary Bowyer has hailed the arrival of midfielder Tom Cairney from Hull City.

The 22-year-old arrives on loan until January 2014, with the Rovers boss delighted to make Cairney the second signing of the day after completing a deal to bring defender Tommy Spurr the the club.

"I'm delighted to get him," said boss Bowyer. "We have to thank Steve Bruce and Hull City for allowing him to come here on loan.

"He's a talented technical player, someone who can dominate midfield and pass the ball. It has been no secret that we've been after one this season.

"He's got a great left for his deliveries from set-plays and he's a great lad, I just spent a couple of hours with him today and he's the right character for the dressing room.

"So we are looking forward to him being involved on Sunday at Derby."

The Rovers boss has revealed that he has kept an eye on the progress of the Scottish Under-21 international since his Premier League days for the Tigers.

And he considers the midfielder to have all the attributes to be successful at Ewood Park.

"I know people at Hull so we've monitored his progress," said Bowyer. "He burst onto the scene as a youngster in Hull's first team. He had a bit of a bad injury last year but he's recovered well from that.

"The lad has said that he's in the best shape that he's felt for a long time so there's only us who can benefit from that and obviously the lad himself.

"We are delighted to have him on board and he provides competition for our midfield."

Bowyer believes that Cairney and Spur will bring a winning mentality to the football club after both players, along with fellow summer arrival Alex Marrow, experienced promotion with their respective teams last season.

"It is important that we get people in our dressing room that have experienced the other side and that is winning," added the manager

"We've had too many years at the club, not just the players but the supporters and everybody connected, where it has been negative.

"Now we need to get people in and we are delighted that he's bringing that winning mentality having just got promoted.

"I"m sure that will rub off on the others because we have a couple of others that we've brought in, Alex Marrow has experienced it at Crystal Palace getting promoted.

"Tommy Spurr got promoted with Doncaster and there were a couple of clubs after him as well, so we are delighted to have got him also.

"We need those type of people around the dressing room because it just changes the mindset of everybody else and we are looking to bring in one or two others like that."

Corry Evans - Blackburn (undisclosed fee)

Rovers have today completed the signing of Corry Evans from Hull City.

The Northern Ireland international has put pen-to-paper on a three-year-deal for an undisclosed fee.

The versatile midfielder started his career with Manchester United's Academy before joining Hull City on loan in January 2011.

Evans played 18 times for the Tigers in the second half of the 2010-11 season, making the loan deal a permanent one that July.

The past two seasons, Evans has been a regular fixture in Steve Bruce's side, making 32 appearances as Hull gained promotion back to the Premier League last term.

On the international stage Evans, who is the younger brother of Manchester United ace Jonny, has appeared regularly for Northern Ireland, with 18 caps and one goal to his name.

Evans' move follows hot on the heels of the yesterday's double deal for Tommy Spurr and Tom Cairney.

Yann Songo'o - Blackburn (free transfer)

Rovers have completed the capture of Cameroonian defender Yann Songo'o following a successful trial.

The 21-year-old has put pen-to-paper on a two-year deal at Ewood Park, subject to international clearance.

A powerful presence at the back and a goal threat from set-plays, Songo'o has been training with Rovers since early July and impressed in the pre-season friendlies against Wrexham and Portimonense.

The French-born centre back hails from a famous footballing family. His dad, Jacques, is a former Cameroon international goalkeeper and his older brother, Franck, came through the ranks at Barcelona.

The Rovers new boy also spent the majority of his youth career in Spain, playing for the likes of Deportivo La Coruna and Real Zaragoza, before having spells with Sabadell and Pobla de Mafumet.

He recently enjoyed a six-month spell in America, signing for MLS side Sporting Kansas City in December, before going out on loan to Orlando City.

At international level, Songo'o represented Cameroon at the 2011 African Youth Championship in South Africa, helping his country reach the final and qualify for the 2011 FIFA Under-20 World Cup. He was subsequently selected for the tournament and played in a 1-0 victory over Uruguay in the final group game, which secured Cameroon's place in the knockout stage.

Songo'o becomes manager Gary Bowyer's 11th summer signing and further strengthens Rovers' defensive department, following the arrivals of Matt Kilgallon, Todd Kane and Tommy Spurr.

 

[King Binny]

Loic Remy - Newcastle (loan)

Loic Remy has joined Newcastle United on a season-long loan from Queens Park Rangers.

The French international striker scored six goals in 14 appearances for the R's last term, having joined them from Marseille at the turn of the year.

Twenty-six-year-old Remy will now ply his trade on Tyneside for the 2013/14 campaign, and said: "I'm very happy to be a Newcastle player.

"It will be a huge honour to play for such a big club. I was very flattered by the Club's interest in me back in January and also very happy that they showed interest in me again this summer.

"The Premier League is the best league in the world and that's where I want to play.

"I am very motivated this year to get into the World Cup squad for my country. I know in order to do that I need to have a big season and a successful campaign with Newcastle United.

"I am focussed on helping the team achieve success this season and scoring as many goals as I can."

Newcastle United's director of football, Joe Kinnear, added: "The need for us to strengthen up front was a priority and I have been working very hard to secure one of our targets in this position.

"I'm delighted to have secured Loic for the season. Now we have him I'm sure he'll be a huge success for us; I know he's hungry for goals and is absolutely committed to helping us achieve success this season."

Manager Alan Pardew said: "Loic is a great player and I'm delighted that Joe has got him on board for us.

"He'll be a great addition to the squad, he gives us strength and pace up front and I'm sure he'll bring plenty of goals.

"It's a big season for Loic, like it is for all our international players ahead of the World Cup, which will only provide extra incentive for him to play at the very top of his game."

 

[King Binny]

Emmanuel Emenike - Fenerbahce (€13 million)

Fenerbahce have announced that they have reached an agreement with Spartak Moscow over the transfer of Emmanuel Emenike, subject to a medical.

The Yellow Canaries released a statement on the Istanbul Stock Exchange confirming the move.

“Fenerbahçe have reached an agreement with Spartak Moscow over the transfer of Emmanuel Emenike for €13-million. Emenike has until 12 August 2013 to pass his medical.”

It will be the second time that the Nigeria striker will join Fenerbahce, having signed for them in 2011, only to leave for Spartak before he had played a single game.

Emenike’s return means the Yellow Canaries will have to offload one foreign player to accommodate him as the Turkish Football Federation will only permit 10 foreign players per-club in the 2013-14 season.

Fener currently have 11 non-Turkish players on their books, including Nigeria captain Joseph Yobo.

 

[King Binny]

Adel Taarabt - Fulham (loan)

Fulham Football Club is delighted to announce the season-long loan signing of Morocco international Adel Taarabt from Queens Park Rangers.

The 24-year-old midfielder arrives in SW6 to be reunited with Manager Martin Jol, as they worked together at Tottenham Hotspur before Taarabt made the move to West London.

Taarabt started his senior career at RC Lens in 2006, having spent two seasons with the French side’s youth team. He signed for Tottenham in January 2007 where he played a handful of times for the first team prior to permanently signing for QPR in 2010 after a successful loan period at Loftus Road.

Taarabt has made more than 150 appearances for Queens Park Rangers since 2009 and has scored 34 goals. He elected to play international football for Morocco and made his debut in Casablanca against the Czech Republic in February 2009. He had represented France at Under-16, U17 and U18 level.

 

[King Binny]

Gary O'Neil - QPR (free transfer)

HARRY Redknapp has added to his midfield options with the signing of Gary O’Neil.

The 30 year-old, who was a free agent following his release from West Ham United at the end of the 2012/13 campaign, has signed a one year contract at Loftus Road.

O’Neil has been training with the R’s during the last fortnight and Redknapp has been suitably impressed by the midfielder, whom was part of his Portsmouth squad that sealed promotion to the Premier League in 2002/03.

He told www.qpr.co.uk: “Gary’s a good player and a good pro.

“He was offered a new deal at West Ham but he decided he fancied coming here because he feels maybe he’ll get more game time at QPR.

“He can run all day long, he’s good on the ball, a good passer, he sees all the pictures in front of him and is a top professional.

“We’ve got plenty of options in that department now, but he’ll certainly add to what we’ve got – he’s a good, good player and will be a fine acquisition for us.”

O’Neil, who captained England at under-21 level in the early part of his career, added: “The challenge here is an exciting one.

“Obviously I know Harry well and he was a big factor in me coming here. The promotion season we had under him at Portsmouth was fantastic.

“He’s played a massive role in my development as a player and now I’m back playing for him again and I want to repay him by helping this club get back into the Premier League.”

He added: “There are so many games in the Championship and you need a strong squad to cope.

“At this early stage when there are not too many injuries and there are no suspensions, it will look like there’s an abundance of talent and choices, but it doesn’t take a lot for people to miss games, so you need to have a competitive squad with strength in depth.

“Having been in and around the squad for the last few weeks, I’ve seen how united the squad are to achieve what we all want to do.

“The togetherness is there – it’s a really happy camp and there’s a real good feel to the place.”

 

[King Binny]

Nikolay Mihaylov - Verona (nominal fee + 20% sell on fee)

Verona have officially signed goalkeeper Nikolay Mihaylov from FC Twente.

The statement was released by Hellas Verona this evening after he underwent a medical. He will wear shirt number 31.

Mihaylov was bought for an undisclosed fee, but it was thought to be nominal considering he only had a year left on his contract.

The 25-year-old Bulgarian international had been close to Sassuolo over the last few days, but opted for Verona instead.

It’s believed Twente will receive 20 per cent of any future transfer fee as part of the deal.

He began his career at Levski Sofia before going on to Liverpool and Twente.

“Playing for Verona is an important step in my career. After six years in Holland, it was the right time for a change of scenery,” he said.

“I always liked Italian football and when I received the call from Verona I didn’t think twice. It wasn’t difficult for me to accept this offer.

“I am very enthusiastic, want to make my mark and do well. The club has great fans and I want to repay their faith in me.”