Confirmed Transfers 20/21

[King Binny]

Cedric Itten - Rangers (undisclosed fee)

[article]RANGERS are delighted to confirm Cedric Itten has joined the club on a four year deal for an undisclosed fee.

Itten, 23, joins from FC St Gallen, having started his career at Basel. The Swiss international moves to Glasgow having forged a strong reputation for goal scoring in his home nation.

Having risen through the ranks of his hometown club,Basel, Itten made his name during loan spells at FC Luzern and St Gallen where his goalscoring earned him a permanent deal.

To date, he has scored 19 goals in 34 appearances in the Swiss Super League with 3 international goals in 2 games.

Itten will join with his teammates when they return from European duty in Germany. Sporting Director, Ross Wilson, commented: "Cedric’s arrival is one that we are very pleased about. He is joining following an excellent season with St Gallen.

"His potential is high and we know he can be developed here at Rangers, working with our staff.

"This deal was agreed just over a week ago but with St Gallen in a title race and battle for European places we were respectful of that with the Swiss season only ending on Monday evening.

"We can all see that the transfer market has been quiet across Europe and we are operating in a market that’s not like any we have experienced before. Leagues are starting and finishing at different times and that means that players and clubs are all at different stages.

"Therefore, we are delighted to continue to move forward as we develop our squad with Cedric further enhancing our attack today.” First Team Manager, Steven Gerrard added: "Cedric is a goal scorer who will add further strength and depth to our squad.

"The fact we have announced two attacking options in the same day highlights our intent to bolster our squad as we begin the campaign.

"I am pleased that a player of Cedric’s ability and potential has decided to join Rangers as he embarks in the next stage of his career."[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Ferran Torres - Man City (€23m)

 

[King Binny]

Pablo Machin - Alaves (Head Coach)

[article]
Deportivo Alaves have appointed former Sevilla and Espanyol manager Pablo Machin as their new head coach to replace Juan Ramon Lopez Muniz, the La Liga club announced on Wednesday.

Muniz had taken charge of Alaves at the back end of the 2019-20 season and guided them to a 16th-place finish despite managing just one win in four games.

Machin, 45, had been named head coach of Chinese Super League side Qingdao Huanghai in July but was unable to travel to China to take up the job after one of his relatives tested positive for COVID-19.

The Spaniard cut his managerial teeth with second division side Numancia before joining Girona in 2014 and overseeing their promotion to La Liga three years later.

His last managerial stint was at Espanyol, where he was sacked last December with the team at the bottom of the La Liga standings.
[/article]

 

[Modo]

 

[King Binny]

Nathan Ake - Man City (£41m)

[article]
Manchester City have signed Dutch international defender Nathan Ake from Bournemouth.

Ake has put pen to paper on a five-year deal, keeping him at City until the summer of 2025.

The 25-year-old says he is delighted to have joined City, a Club he feels offers him everything he needs to win trophies and have a successful career.

“City have been the best side in England over the course of the last decade,” he said.

“Coming here is a dream for me. This is a top side full of world-class players. Everywhere you look in this squad there are big names with international pedigree.

“Pep is a manager admired across the world – what he’s done in the game speaks for itself. The success he’s had is unbelievable and the style of football he plays really appeals to me.

“I know I’m going to have to work hard to get into the side, but that’s what I’m here to do. I’ll do whatever I can to make an impact and help the team win silverware.”

Txiki Begiristain added: “Nathan is a quality defender. He was a leader during his time at Bournemouth, and I am so pleased we’ve managed to bring him here.

“He’s strong and quick, and we feel he has the technical and intellectual attributes needed to excel in Pep’s setup.

“Working with this squad, which is full of world-class players, will raise his level, and we are looking forward to seeing what he can achieve here in the coming years.”

Ake’s footballing journey began at VV Wilhelmus at the age of six, but he moved to ADO Den Haag after two years, before signing for Feyenoord at the age of 12.

He was spotted by Chelsea after scoring against them in the final of the Willem II youth tournament and was invited to London where he met Didier Drogba, who encouraged him to sign for the club. He joined at 16 in 2011.

The defender was a key part of Chelsea’s 2012 FA Youth Cup winning side and then captained their U21s to the 2013/14 U21 Premier League title.

Rafa Benitez handed Ake his debut as a second-half sub against Norwich on Boxing Day 2012 and he made his first start in an FA Cup win over Middlesbrough.

However, his chances at Chelsea were limited and he went in search of regular first-team football. He spent a month on loan at Championship side Reading in 2015, making five appearances, before spending the 2015/16 season on loan at Watford, making 28 appearances for the Premier League side.

Bournemouth offered him a six-month loan the following campaign. He played 12 times and scored three goals for the Cherries and looked increasingly comfortable at the top level. He returned to Chelsea for the second half of the campaign and made five appearances.

Bournemouth made the move permanent that summer, signing Ake for £20 million. He became an essential player for the south coast side and made 109 appearances after joining permanently, scoring eight goals, playing every Premier League game in both the 17/18 and 18/19 seasons.

He collected 68 youth caps for the Netherlands from U15-U21, captaining both the U17s and U19s, and is a two-time European Championships winner having lifted the U17 titles in 2011 and 2012. He was named in the Team of the Tournament at the 2012 U17 Euros, in which he was captain and scored a penalty in the final penalty shootout.

He has since won 13 senior caps, scoring two goals, having made his debut in a 2-1 win over Morocco in May 2017.

Everyone at Manchester City is excited to welcome Nathan into the fold and we all hope he can have a long and successful period at the Club.
[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Craig Shakespeare - Assistant Head Coach (Aston Villa)

[article]Aston Villa is pleased to announce the appointment of Craig Shakespeare as the club’s new Assistant Head Coach.

Craig has served in both assistant manager and manager roles for nearly 20 years at Premier League and Championship level accumulating a wealth of experience in over 500 games.

The 56-year-old was assistant to Claudio Ranieri when Leicester City won the Premier League in 2016 before going on to take the reins at the King Power Stadium. He was also briefly assistant manager to Sam Allardyce with the senior England men’s team.

Dean Smith said: “I was keen to add some additional Premier League know-how onto my coaching team and Craig certainly has that in abundance.

“He’s a vastly experienced coach who will add another dimension to our team. I've known Craig for many years since our Walsall playing days and I’m really looking forward to working with him.”[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Jason Tindall - Bournemouth (Manager)

[article]AFC Bournemouth are delighted to announce the appointment of Jason Tindall as the club’s new manager.

Tindall, who has served the Cherries for more than 18 years as a player and coach, has put pen to paper on a three-year contract at Vitality Stadium and will be attempting to lead the club back to the Premier League.

The 42-year-old first arrived in Dorset in July 1998 and went on to make 199 appearances in all competitions across two playing spells.

He was later appointed assistant manager to Jimmy Quinn in September 2008 before continuing in the same role under Eddie Howe a few months later.

And Tindall was to be Howe’s assistant from that point on, helping guide AFC Bournemouth to three promotions in six seasons, culminating in a five-year stay in the Premier League.

“It’s an honour and a privilege to be the manager of such a great football club,” Tindall told afcbTV.

“Given the success of the club over the last 12 years, with Eddie in charge and me by his side, I’m not going to come in and rip everything up and start again. I would be a fool to do that.

“But I’m my own person with my own ideas and I will be looking to implement them as soon as we get back on the training ground.

“I know the Championship is a very tough league but my aim is to get this club back into the Premier League at the first time of asking.

“This is a challenge that I feel I’m ready for and one I’m looking forward to.”

AFC Bournemouth owner Maxim Demin said: “Jason has played a huge role in this club’s success over the last decade and fully deserves to step up and become our new manager.

“While his knowledge of and passion for the club is unquestionable, he was the standout candidate for this role.

“He has huge enthusiasm for the project and great ideas to get the best out of a talented squad.

“This is the start of a new era for this football club and I’m excited about what the future holds.”[/article]

 

[rurikbird]

Craig Shakespeare - Assistant Head Coach (Aston Villa)

[article]Aston Villa is pleased to announce the appointment of Craig Shakespeare as the club’s new Assistant Head Coach.

Craig has served in both assistant manager and manager roles for nearly 20 years at Premier League and Championship level accumulating a wealth of experience in over 500 games.

The 56-year-old was assistant to Claudio Ranieri when Leicester City won the Premier League in 2016 before going on to take the reins at the King Power Stadium. He was also briefly assistant manager to Sam Allardyce with the senior England men’s team.

Dean Smith said: “I was keen to add some additional Premier League know-how onto my coaching team and Craig certainly has that in abundance.

“He’s a vastly experienced coach who will add another dimension to our team. I've known Craig for many years since our Walsall playing days and I’m really looking forward to working with him.”[/article]

Good for them, he’s going to be a vast improvement on Terry.

 

[King Binny]

Andrea Pirlo - Juventus (Head Coach)

[article]
Andrea Pirlo is the new Juventus coach. 41-years-old and born in Flero in the province of Brescia, Pirlo has had a legendary career as a player that has led him to win everything, from the Champions League to the World Cup in 2006. In his four years at the centre of the Juventus midfield, Pirlo won as many league titles, a Coppa Italia and two Italian Super Cups.

Today, begins a new chapter of his career in the world of football, as it was said almost a week ago: from Maestro to Mister. From today he will be THE coach for people of Juventus, as the club has decided to entrust him with the technical leadership of the First Team, after having already selected him for Juventus Under 23. Today's choice is based on the belief that Pirlo has what it takes to lead from his debut on the bench, an expert and talented squad to pursue new successes.

Andrea Pirlo today signed a two-year contract until 30 June 2022.
[/article]

Takefusa Kubo - Villarreal (loan)

[article]The Japanese midfielder arrives on loan from Real Madrid

Villarreal CF and Real Madrid have reached an agreement for the loan of the Japanese midfielder Takefusa Kubo, who will play for the Yellows for the 2020/21 season. The footballer will be presented this Tuesday at 12pm CEST, in the Preferencia Function Room at the Estadio de la Cerámica (access by Gate 31) in an event exclusive to the media.

Kubo, talent in attack for the Yellows

Takefusa Kubo (Kawasaki, 4/06/01) is a young midfielder who has excellent ball control, and stands out for his extraordinary ability to beat opponents, as well as his excellent reading of the game.

At 19, the Japanese footballer has experience in the top flight of Spanish football. Despite joining Villarreal from Real Madrid, he spent last season on loan at RCD Mallorca. For the team from the Balearics, he played 36 games, scoring four goals and providing five assists. Take Kubo is also a regular in the senior Japan squad, having played a total of seven times for his country.
[/article]

Nice loan signing for Villarreal

 

[King Binny]

Pierre-Emile Højbjerg - Tottenham £15m (plus add-ons up to £15m)

[article]We are delighted to announce the signing of Pierre-Emile Højbjerg from Southampton.

The midfielder has signed a contract with the Club until 2025 and will wear the number five shirt.

Højbjerg, who turned 25 last week, made a total of 128 appearances and scored five goals during his four-year spell at Southampton having joined them from Bayern Munich in 2016.

The Denmark international moved to Bayern from Brøndby IF in July, 2012, making his debut later that season against 1. FC Nürnberg at the age of 17, and in doing so, became the youngest player ever to represent them in the Bundesliga. He was named Danish Talent of the Year in 2013 and started the 2014 German Cup final, where Bayern overcame Borussia Dortmund 2-0 after extra time.

His time in Germany also saw him enjoy loan spells at FC Augsburg, who he helped to Europa League qualification in 2015, and FC Schalke, where he made more than 30 appearances during the 2015/16 campaign.

He made his move to the Premier League with Southampton in 2016, helping them to the EFL Cup final in his first season and was named Club Captain in December, 2018.

On the international stage, Højbjerg has collected 33 caps for Denmark to date, with his debut coming as an 18-year-old in their 1-0 win over Sweden in May, 2014.[/article]

Kyle Walker-Peters - Southampton (£12m)

[article]
Southampton have completed the permanent signing of full-back Kyle Walker-Peters from Tottenham Hotspur, the club is delighted to announce.

The 23-year-old makes a summer move to St Mary’s, signing a five-year contract, following a series of eye-catching displays with the team after joining on an initial loan deal in January.

Walker-Peters, who has represented England at every level from Under-18s to Under-21s, came through the Spurs academy before going on to make 24 senior appearances for the London club.

Following his short-term switch to Southampton, the right-back played only once before the enforced pause in the season, but it was agreed he would be able to see out the campaign with Ralph Hasenhüttl’s side and he took full advantage of that opportunity, producing a string of outstanding performances as Saints took points from eight of their nine games after the restart.

Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhüttl said: “It was not easy for Kyle when he arrived here. He needed some time to adapt to our style of play, and then we had this period where we could not be together as a team.

“But you could see from how he performed when we came back that he had worked a lot in this time, both on his physical condition and also on his understanding of our own game. It says a lot to me about this player that he was able to do this.

“He is a very good fit for our style. He is a young, intelligent player, and he is very good on the ball, with good quickness and an ability to play this intense style that we like.

“I am very pleased we have been able to bring him back as our player, as this is a position that we have been looking to improve in and Kyle does this for us. I think he can develop his game even more here too.”

Kyle Walker-Peters said: “I’m delighted to have signed here. The last few months on loan have been great for me and a lot of fun too. I’ve really enjoyed my football, the atmosphere here and also the style of play.

“The club definitely fits the way I like to play, and I hope that people were able to see that during the last month or so of the season.

“I feel like I’ve already developed in the time I’ve been here, and that’s a big part of wanting to stay too. Obviously, it’s a club with a great reputation for improving young players and, personally, I’ve found it really valuable working under the manager, with his ideas on the game and what he expects from you as an individual.

“I think the way we finished the season gives us real optimism about where we’re heading too, and it just feels like a really good place for me to keep developing as a player and make the best out of what I have.”
[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Jonathan David - Lille (reportedly €32m)

[article]
LOSC can officially boast a new strong attacking reinforcement. The highly talented, prolific goalscorer previously of KAA Gent (in the Belgian first division), Jonathan David has signed with us for the next five seasons. Sought after by several big European clubs, it is with LOSC that the Canadian striker has chosen to commit until 2025 and where he will wear the number 9.

A COLOSSAL POTENTIAL FORMED IN SOCCER COUNTRY

48 goals and 20 assists in 95 games: thus reads Jonathan David’s record for his first two professional seasons. The young Canadian international, of Haitian origin and born in Brooklyn New York on January 14 2000, has lit up the playing fields since his arrival in Belgium in 2018. Having grown up between Haiti and Canada, it was the latter where Jonathan’s footballing rise began via several clubs in Ottawa. An immense, raw talent, the young striker was quickly called upon to represent Canada at youth level before Europe beckoned and, with it, a chance to fulfil his huge potential. He landed at Gent, where he made his first-team debut at 18.

A STAR IN BELGIUM, A REVELATION IN EUROPE

A general goal? To gradually realise one’s immense potential. Yet for Jonathan David, there was no waiting around as he exploded onto the scene. In 2018/19, at just 18 and in his first season among the pros, he scored 14 goals gave five assists with the Buffalos, reaching a Belgian Cup final along the way. The following campaign got even better, with the prolific forward scoring 23 times and offering up 8 assists across 40 matches for the team that finished an interrupted campaign in the runners-up position and top scorers of the Jupiler Pro League. Jonathan has also revealed his talent on the European scene, netting 7 times in 17 UEFA Europa League games in the past two campaigns, a run that included a double against Saint-Etienne (3-2 on 19/09/19).

12 INTERNATIONAL CAPS, 11 GOALS WITH CANADA

Along with his impressive feats at club level, Jonathan David is already the proud wearer of the captain’s armband with Canada. Voted Canada’s Footballer of the Year for 2019 and crowned top scorer at the Gold Cup (the flagship football competition of North America, Central America and the Caribbean) that same year, the striker who has been a senior international since the age of 18 has already racked up 11 goals in 12 games with the MNT. An innately talented goalscorer, Jonathan David plays a big offensive role in his teams and is capable of supplying that key pass as well as finishing. Added to his undoubted qualities of speed and efficiency in front of goal, the boy from Brooklyn is also fiercely mentally strong and mature.

Adding Jonathan David as an attacking force at the club, LOSC can proudly boast the arrival of an extremely talented player who ticks all the boxes in terms of a modern, efficient and spectacular striker. Despite competition from several top European clubs, Jonathan David and LOSC have chosen one another, a fact that LOSC are hugely proud of. Our new Canadian forward can now look to expressing his talents in our colours both in Ligue 1 and the Europa League, a competition he is already very familiar with. We are both happy and honoured to have you at LOSC, Jonathan. Welcome to Lille!

MARC INGLA, LOSC CEO

"We are very proud today to welcome Jonathan David, a great talent who has already demonstrated at his young age all his potential and his many qualities within the Belgian championship. He is a player with not only great physical and technical abilities, but also mental qualities which make him particularly alert, agile and decisive. Jonathan is a very intelligent boy who I am sure will fit in with the LOSC style of play and the French championship. We thank him for choosing to join our project and wish him the best of luck in our jersey.”

JONATHAN DAVID

"I’m really happy. I’ve been eagerly awaiting this day and it’s a pleasure to be a Dogue. I know the project that has been put in place here by the President, Luis Campos, and Christophe Galtier. This is a very good team with great players. I want to play and to progress and I think that this is the perfect place. I’m a player who knows his place on the pitch. I love to play to my qualities: notably with speed and and technique. I’m also eager to see our fans! Let’s go LOSC !"
[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Morgan Boyes - Fleetwood (loan)

[article]
Fleetwood Town are delighted to announce the signing of Morgan Boyes from Liverpool on loan for the 2020/21 season.

The 19-year-old arrives at Highbury Stadium on a season-long loan from the Premier League champions, following an impressive campaign in their U23s last season.

Boyes made his first start for Jurgen Klopp’s side in the quarter-final of the EFL Cup against Aston Villa earlier this year after making his senior debut in the FA Cup against Shrewsbury.

And Joey Barton explained the Welshman arrives with a good reputation.

“He’s a player our scouts have been watching for a while and we are delighted to get him,” said the Town boss.

“Morgan is a young player with plenty of potential, hopefully, we can help him develop at Fleetwood and see him establish himself in our side.”

Boyes will wear the number 5 shirt at Highbury.
[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Francis Coquelin & Dani Parejo - Villarreal (combined fee of €13m)

 

[King Binny]

Blaise Matuidi - Inter Miami (free transfer)

[article]
Midfielder Blaise Matuidi has become Major League Soccer side Inter Miami's first high-profile signing.

Matuidi and Italian champions Juventus mutually agreed to terminate the final year of his contract on Wednesday.

The 33-year-old - a World Cup winner with France in 2018 - played with Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham at Paris St-Germain before joining Juve in 2017.

"I hope we will win a lot of trophies together," said Matuidi. "It's a big challenge for me."

Inter Miami have lost all five matches so far in their debut MLS season, which is set to resume on 22 August.

"I couldn't be happier to welcome my friend Blaise to Inter Miami," said Beckham, the former England and Manchester United midfielder.

"He is an exciting and gifted player and a great person. To have a World Cup winner of Blaise's quality in our new team is such a proud moment - for us as owners and for our fans."

Matuidi, who will wear the number eight shirt, has been a league title winner in seven of the past eight seasons - four times in France with PSG and three times in Italy with Juventus - and started the 2018 World Cup final as France beat Croatia 4-2.
[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Albian Ajeti - Celtic (£5m)

[article]
CELTIC Football Club are delighted to announce the signing of Swiss international striker, Albian Ajeti, who has joined the club on a four-year deal from West Ham United.

The 23-year-old spent last season at the English Premiership side, having spent the previous two years at Swiss Super League outfit FC Basel.

While playing in Switzerland's top-flight, the forward played alongside Hoops loanee Mohamed Elyounoussi, and was named the Swiss Super League top goalscorer with 17 goals during the 2017/18 campaign.

Celtic manager Neil Lennon described Albian as a tremendous player, and one that he's delighted to bring to the Club.

He said: “We are delighted to bring Albian to Celtic. He is a tremendous player, an international with real quality and I know he is really determined to do all he can to bring more success to our supporters.

“I have admired him for long time as he is a really intelligent footballer, well balanced and a really good finisher. We are so pleased to make him a Celtic player and we hope he has a long and prosperous career with us.”

Everyone at Celtic welcomes Albian to the club and wishes him every success in the years ahead.
[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Willian - Arsenal (free transfer)

[article]Brazil international Willian has signed a three-year deal to join us ahead of the 2020/21 season.

The 32-year-old forward has a wealth of experience and has made more than 600 club appearances in a career spanning 13 seasons.

Willian started at Brazilian side Corinthians, before joining Shakhtar Donetsk in August 2007. In his six years there, he won four Ukrainian Premier League titles and the Uefa Cup in 2009. Four years later, he briefly signed for Anzhi Makhachkala before joining Chelsea, winning the Premier League and League Cup in his second season in England.

Throughout his seven years at Chelsea, he won two Premier League titles, an FA Cup and the Europa League. He made 339 appearances, with 63 goals and 56 assists in that time.

“I believe he’s a player that can really make a difference for us," Mikel Arteta said. "We have been monitoring him for the past few months, we had a clear intention to strengthen in the attacking midfielder and the winger positions [and] he is a player that gives us a lot of versatility, he can play in three or four different positions. He has the experience of everything in the football world but to still have the ambition to come here and contribute to bring the club where it belongs. I have been really impressed with all the talks I have had with him and how much he wanted to come.”

Willian has made 70 appearances and has scored nine goals for Brazil, making his international debut in 2011. He has since represented his country at the 2014 and 2018 World Cups, the 2015 Copa America, the Copa America Centenario, and the 2019 Copa America where he was a key member of the squad that lifted the trophy on home soil.

Technical director Edu said: “I know him very well, since a long time ago because we've been working together for the Brazilian national team and of course I was following him because he played for another club. He has a lot of fantastic attributes as a person, as a football player of course, his character. I'm 100 per cent sure that everybody in the dressing room, the fans, myself and Mikel will enjoy having Willian in our side.“

Willian will wear the number 12 shirt.

The deal is subject to the completion of regulatory processes.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Mohammed Salisu - Southampton (£10.9m)

[article]Southampton Football Club is delighted to announce it has completed the signing of centre-back Mohammed Salisu from Real Valladolid.

The sought-after 21-year-old Ghanaian has signed a four-year contract at St Mary’s, becoming the second player to arrive at the club during this year’s summer transfer window.

One of the most highly-regarded young centre backs playing in Europe right now, Salisu moved to Spanish top-flight side Valladolid from his homeland in 2017, first establishing himself in their second side, before quickly progressing into a key member of the first-team.

Salisu featured twice in the club’s Copa del Rey campaign in the 2018/19 season before becoming a regular in the 2019/20 campaign, making 32 appearances across all competitions, helping them to a notable improvement in their defensive record and also to a respectable 13th-placed finish.

Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhüttl said: “This is an important signing for us. Mohammed is a player who fits our profile well. He is young and has a great amount of potential, but he is also someone who has the qualities to come in and help the team as soon as he is up to speed with our way of playing.

“I like what I have seen of him so far in his games with Valladolid. He is strong defensively, he is calm with the ball – something that is important in our team – and he has good speed too.

“I think he will fit in well with us and that this will be a good place for him to develop his game further. We have some good centre-backs here and this will be another strong option for us.”

Mohammed Salisu said: “It is a very good feeling to be a Southampton player. I am very happy to be part of the club and I am looking forward to starting here.

“Southampton is a club with a very rich history in developing young players, so it is a very good club for me to develop my skills and to learn a lot as a young player.

“I know that the team expects a lot from me and I’m going to try to give all I can to help the team.”[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Jan Vertonghen (free transfer), Everton Soares (reportedly €20M + add-ons and 15% sell on fee), and Luca Waldschmidt (reportedly €15m) - Benfica

 

[Kay Age El]

 

[King Binny]

Omar Elabdellaoui - Galatasaray (free transfer)

 

[King Binny]

David Silva - Real Sociedad (free transfer)

[article]Real Sociedad and David Silva have reached an agreement that will see the player from the Canary Islands join Real Sociedad for the next two seasons. The new realista joins as a free agent from Manchester City and will sign for the club until June 30, 2022. Silva will join the team in the coming days.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Joe Hart - Tottenham (free transfer)

[article]We are delighted to announce the signing of Joe Hart on a contract until 2022.

The 33-year-old goalkeeper, who left Burnley at the end of the 2019/20 season, won two Premier League titles, two League Cups and an FA Cup with Manchester City, having joined the Premier League side from Shrewsbury Town in 2006.

He went on to win four Premier League Golden Glove awards and was twice named in the PFA Team of the Year during a 12-year spell at City, where he also spent time on loan at Torino and West Ham United.

On the international stage, Hart has won 75 caps for England and represented the Three Lions at one World Cup and two European Championships.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Oliver Skipp - Norwich (loan)

[article]
Norwich City have completed the season-long loan signing of Oliver Skipp from Tottenham Hotspur.

Skipp, 19, has been at the north London club since he joined their academy aged six. He’s gone on to make a total of 23 senior appearances, eleven of which came in the 2019-20 season across the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, and Carabao Cup.

In last season’s Audi Cup pre-season tournament, Skipp scored in the penalty shootout to help Spurs beat Bayern Munich and win the final.

The central midfielder has also played at international level, representing England’s Under-16s, 17s, 18s and 21s, where he recently crossed paths with Ben Godfrey, Todd Cantwell and Max Aarons.

Speaking exclusively to canaries.co.uk, Skipp said: “I’m delighted to sign for Norwich. It’s a club that’s looking to go places. This season is a big one for the club and we’ll be looking to get back into the Premier League.

“I spoke to Max Aarons before coming and he only said positive things about the club. Knowing a few of the boys will help me settle in, so I’m really looking forward to getting started.

“I haven’t played as much football as I’d want but this is a massive opportunity and hopefully I’ll show the fans that I’m capable of taking it.”

Norwich City head coach Daniel Farke added: “I’m really happy with this opportunity and to have Oliver with us. We’re thankful and grateful to Jose [Mourinho] and Tottenham because Oliver is full of class and potential.

“He’s experienced on the top level and Jose was there with some very complimentary words. There was a lot of competition for him if we’re being honest.

“We think he is someone who perfectly fits to our game. He’s a brave player, good in possession and full of energy. He likes to dominate the ball and is also good against the ball.

“We’ll give him time to adapt and to come into his rhythm. We won’t put too much pressure on him, but we’re all happy that this signing was possible.”
[/article]

Xavi Quintilla - Norwich (loan with option to buy)

[article]
Norwich City have completed the season-long loan signing of Spanish defender Xavi Quintilla from Villarreal.

City will also retain an option to make the deal for the 23-year-old full-back permanent throughout the course of the 2020-21 season.

Quintilla, 23, typically operates as a left-back but is capable of being deployed at centre-back as well.

After beginning his youth career at Lleida in Spain, Quintilla joined Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy in 2009, eventually making his first appearance for their reserve team in 2015.

A return to Lleida came during the 2016-17 season, when Quintilla was loaned to Lleida Esportiu, before making the permanent switch to Villarreal B in 2017.

Over the last three seasons, Quintilla has made 52 appearances in all competitions for Villarreal B and 32 in all competitions for the club’s first team, 26 of which came in La Liga and one in the Europa League.

Quintilla has also represented the Spanish national team at youth level in the Under-16s to Under-19s categories.

Speaking exclusively to canaries.co.uk, Quintilla said: “I’m so happy and proud to be here and to play for Norwich in England and in the Championship.

“My philosophy and my football is similar to Norwich’s. I played before for Villarreal and Barcelona’s academy, and I think Norwich works a bit like them, so it’s great for me.

“I come here to play as many minutes as possible. We want to play good football for the fans to see. I would love to play in the Premier League, so I will do everything possible to get Norwich into the top league.”

Norwich City head coach Daniel Farke added: “Xavi is a player we’ve been following and tracking for some time.

“I’m happy it has been possible to sign him at this stage, because he is a young player with experience at the top level. He has played nearly 30 games in La Liga for Villarreal and also has experience in European competitions.

“He’s a humble person who wants to develop his game. As a player, he has good technical and tactical skills and is very good in possession of the ball.

“We had a situation last season where we were a little short in the full-back areas, so we’ve now been able to add competition and options in those areas.”

The deal has been completed subject to international clearance.
[/article]

Jeremy Ngakia - Watford (free transfer)

[article]
The Hornets are pleased to confirm the signature of teenage right-back Jeremy Ngakia.

The West Ham United academy product made five Premier League starts last season.

With his contract having expired this summer at London Stadium, the 19-year-old has signed a permanent deal with the Hornets and will join up with the squad for pre-season training next week.[/article]

Vladimir Ivić - Watford (Head Coach)

[article]
Vladimir Ivić is the new Head Coach of Watford, the club is delighted to confirm.

A two-time league winner as manager of Israel’s Maccabi Tel Aviv, in both 2018/19 and 2019/20, Ivić also led PAOK to Greek Cup glory in 2016/17.

“First of all, from the beginning I have a big expectation of myself and of my coaching staff,” Ivić told watfordfc.com.

“It’s my first time in England and I need to adapt as fast as possible, to do the best for the club is very important to me.”

The 43-year-old has signed a one-year contract, with a further year option held by the Hornets, and will start work with the Hornets’ squad on Monday, alongside his three-strong coaching team.

Ivić added: “I’ve worked with my coaching staff for three years, so I know that we will ask the most from ourselves so we can help the players to achieve the club’s goals.”

Born in the Former Republic of Yugoslavia, the former midfielder represented the country of his birth at Under-21 level as a player before earning full caps for Serbia & Montenegro. At club level, he won the First League of FR Yugoslavia three times with Partizan Belgrade.
[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Reinier Jesus - Dortmund (2 year loan)

[article]Borussia Dortmund have signed 18-year-old Brazilian Reinier, a highly talented young attacking player. The Brazil U23 international joins the Black & Yellows from Real Madrid on a two-year loan agreement.

Having come through the youth ranks at Rio de Janeiro-based Flamengo, Reinier won the double of domestic title and Copa Libertadores – the South American equivalent of the UEFA Champions League – with the Brazilian giants in 2019. A switch to Spain followed in January 2020, although he has not made a single competitive appearance for the senior squad – in large part due to the corona pandemic. But he has still trained with Zinedine Zidane’s team and made three appearances for the reserves, scoring two goals.

"Reinier is a player who possesses enormous talent and can be deployed in various attacking positions," said sporting director Michael Zorc. "We’ve been keeping tabs on the lad for over two years; in addition to his outstanding technical qualities, he also boasts a strong physical presence. Following the long break from competitive football, we’ll give him the necessary time to adapt to professional football in Germany and he can then be an additional option for us going forward."

Upon signing the contract, Reinier said: "I’m happy that I’m now at BVB. The club is known for its focus on young players and improving them. I would like to learn a lot and play a lot here, help the team and be successful. I hope that we’ll experience many happy moments together."[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Valentino Lazaro - Borussia Mönchengladbach (loan)

[article]Borussia have signed Valentino Lazaro on a one-year loan deal from Europa League finalists Inter Milan.

The 24-year-old Austria international, who has played for RB Salzburg, Hertha Berlin, Inter Milan and Newcastle United at professional level, completed his medical tests at BORUSSIA-PARK on Tuesday, before joining up with the Foals at their training camp in Harsewinkel-Marienfeld. “We’re delighted that the loan move has gone through and that Tino has chosen to come to Borussia,” said sporting director Max Eberl. “He is a very versatile player and adds even more strength and depth to our squad.”

Lazaro began his footballing journey at Grazer AK in Austria. The right-sided player then moved to Red Bull Salzburg in January 2011. He worked his way through RB’s youth setup, before making his first-team debut in December 2012 as a 16-year-old. He steadily became a regular in the Salzburg setup, going on to make 121 competitive appearances (15 goals) and winning five domestic league and four domestic cup titles. Lazaro made his senior Austria debut in 2014 and has since won a total of 28 caps, scoring three goals.

After six years at Salzburg, Lazaro joined Hertha Berlin on loan in summer 2017, and the capital club made his move permanent at the end of the year. The Austrian became an integral part of the team, scoring five goals in his 65 competitive games. His performances earned him a €22.5 million move to Inter Milan in summer 2019. He featured in eleven competitive games for the Italian side in the first half of last season, before joining Newcastle United on loan in January, where he featured in 15 games across their Premier League and FA Cup campaigns, scoring twice.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Antonee Robinson - Fulham (reportedly £2m)

[article]The Club is delighted to confirm the signing of Antonee Robinson from Wigan Athletic for an undisclosed fee.

Fulham saw off competition from a number of rival Premier League sides for Robinson’s signature, with the highly rated left-back agreeing a deal that keeps him at Craven Cottage until the summer of 2024.

After the move was finalised, Robinson told FFCtv: “I am made up to be a Fulham player. I was really excited to get down here and get everything signed. When the lads get back in here, I can’t wait to get going.

“I heard a few days ago that Scott Parker was interested in me and wanted to speak to me personally. We had a zoom call and he was really keen to get the deal done and for me to be a Fulham player.

“Fulham play a really nice style of football and I can see myself fitting in perfectly. As soon as I heard of the ambitions of the Club it was an easy decision for me.”

Tony Khan added: “I’m pleased to announce that Antonee Robinson has joined Fulham Football Club on a multiyear contract agreement. Antonee is a great young addition to our squad for our return to the Premier League.

“He works hard and is known for being an excellent teammate with a great attitude, and he’s been a valued contributor everywhere he’s played in recent years, in the Championship and with the U.S. men’s national team as well. Come On Fulham!”

Robinson came through the Everton academy but made his competitive league debut in the Championship with Bolton Wanderers, for whom he appeared 34 times in 2017/18.

Another year in England’s second tier followed on loan at Wigan, where his impressive displays prompted the Latics to make the deal permanent last summer.

Robinson, who has just turned 23, took his performances to a new level in 2019/20, and was a star performer in the Wigan team that embarked on a run of 10 clean sheets from 11 games in the latter stages of the campaign. That form looked to have secured a famous escape from relegation, before matters off the field condemned them to the drop.

An athletic, attacking full-back, Robinson was born in England but is a full United States international having qualified through his father.

He made his debut for the States in May 2018 and now has seven caps to his name, in which time he has already recorded two assists.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Jordan Hugill - Norwich (reportedly £5m)

[article]Norwich City have completed the permanent signing of striker Jordan Hugill from West Ham United for an undisclosed fee.

The forward has signed a contract through to the summer of 2023.

Hugill, 28, has spent the last five seasons playing in the Championship with spells at Preston North End, Middlesbrough, and most recently Queens Park Rangers.

In the 2019-20 season, Hugill set a new personal record of 15 goals in 41 games in all competitions for the Hoops.

In total, Hugill has 42 Championship goals to his name across 176 appearances.

Speaking exclusively to canaries.co.uk, Hugill said: “As soon as I knew they were interested in taking me, it was a decision that I wanted to move quickly. To come here is brilliant for me and my family to get settled again and hit the ground running.

“For me, the aim is to get this club back to where they want to be and for me to prove a point.

“I’m a big, physical presence who will batter a defender around, so quite old school, but I’m also a very powerful striker who can get in the box and on the end of things.

“I’m looking forward to meeting and getting to know everyone, but more importantly I’m looking forward to succeeding with everyone.”

Norwich City head coach Daniel Farke added: “Jordan has proved he can score goals, especially at this level. He’s homegrown, a top-class character and at a good age.

“He offers something different to what we have in the squad. He’s a physical threat, who is also able to keep the ball under pressure. He’s good in the air and can attack crosses.

“It took some time, but we’re pleased we’ve been able to get the deal done, get Jordan in and for that we owe many compliments to Stuart [Webber].” [/article]

Jeff Hendrick - Newcastle (free transfer)

[article]Newcastle United have completed the signing of Republic of Ireland international midfielder Jeff Hendrick on a four-year deal.

The 28-year-old Dubliner joins the Magpies following the expiration of his contract with Burnley, where he made 139 appearances in four seasons across all competitions and helped the Clarets qualify for the Europa League in 2017/18.

He had joined Burnley for a reported fee of more than £10m in August 2016 having made more than 200 appearances for his first club, Derby County.

Hendrick - who has won 54 caps for his country and represented them at Euro 2016 - told NUFC TV: "It's a massive club and playing over the years, going to the stadium, it's one of the best stadiums to play in, so I just want to get playing there.

"I've had over 100 games in the Premier League but I want to keep going and keep improving with a different team. It's going to be different for me, the demands with the bigger stadium, the crowd, how big the club is, so I've got to take that on and keep pushing myself and striving to get better.

"I'm looking forward to it - I can't wait."

Head coach Steve Bruce added: "Jeff is someone I've admired for a long time. I watched him when he was at Derby, then he went to Burnley for a lot of money and couldn't afford him, so I missed out then!

"He's an experienced international football who can play all across the midfield so we welcome him aboard. He'll be a big asset to us, on and off the pitch.

"He's a great pro, down to earth, and at the age of 28 it's a wonderful time to get somebody. It is the peak of his career - he's a really fit boy who has played 122 times in the Premier League for Burnley over the last four years, and I'm sure he'll be a great addition to the squad."[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Yvon Mvogo - PSV (2 year loan)

[article]Goalkeeper Yvon Mvogo has completed his move from RB Leipzig to PSV on a two-year loan deal. The 26-year-old Swiss has successfully passed a medical and will join Roger Schmidt’s squad for full training for the first time this morning. “Mvogo is a versatile keeper who is ready to face competition with fellow goalkeepers”, says PSV’s Director of Football John de Jong.

Mvogo signed a contract extension with RB Leipzig last weekend. De Jong: “They wanted Mvogo to sign a new deal before allowing him to depart and it was an attractive arrangement for us. They have been proactive and we are happy with the deal.”

PSV have now four goalkeepers in their senior squad: Zoet, Unnerstall, Jurjus and new summer signing Mvogo. “A number of clubs have shown concrete interest in signing Hidde Jurjus and we have already promised to be cooperative with Jeroen Zoet when opportunity knocks for him”, explains De Jong. “He has told us he fancies a foreign adventure and we respect his choice. Jeroen Zoet has built up a formidable reputation with us and as a key player he has won three Eredivisie titles with PSV. We need several fine goalkeepers, though. Robbin Ruiter has already made a move to Willem II and by completing a loan deal with Mvogo we are fully prepared for any changes in our goalkeeping group.”

The Swiss shot stopper himself is very much looking forward to the new challenge in Eindhoven. “I very much like to show I am ready to become a first-choice goalkeeper at a big club. All parties involved have deliberately opted for a two-year loan deal. It has given me peace of mind and it’s up to me to justify the trust placed in me.”[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Morgan Gibbs-White - Swansea (loan)

[article]Swansea City has completed the signing of Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White on a season-long loan, subject to international clearance.

The 20-year-old has made 70 first-team appearances at Molineux, helping the club re-establish itself in the Premier League and playing a part in their Europa League adventure last season.

Gibbs-White becomes Swansea’s third signing ahead of the 2020-21 campaign, following the return of Freddie Woodman and the arrival of Korey Smith on a free transfer.

The move sees the attacking midfielder reunite with Swans head coach Steve Cooper, with the pair having worked together in the England age-grade set-up as the Three Lions won the Under-17 World Cup in 2017.

Gibbs-White netted in the 5-2 final win over Spain, having also scored in the quarter-final success against the United States.

Recent Swans loanees Rhian Brewster, Conor Gallagher and Marc Guehi were all part of that World Cup-winning squad under Cooper.

At club level, Gibbs-White came through the Wolves academy having first joined the Midlands club as an eight-year-old.

He capped his rise with a first-team debut as a substitute in an FA Cup tie against Stoke in 2017, when aged just 16.

Twelve months later he would play in both the original tie and the replay as the Swans edged the-then Championship side in the third-round of the same competition.

He made 13 league appearances over the remainder of the season as Nuno Espirito Santo led Wolves to promotion, and made his Premier League bow as a substitute in the draw against Everton on the opening day of the 2018-19 season.

Capped by England at every level between under-16 and under-21, Gibbs-White made 16 appearances in all competitions for Wolves last term, scoring in the Europa League win over Pyunik Yerevan.

He was in the matchday squads for the recent Europa League knock-out ties against Olympiacos and Sevilla.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Anthony Barry - Chelsea

[article]First team coach Anthony Barry has left Wigan Athletic to pursue a new opportunity at Chelsea.

Anthony joined Latics’ coaching staff in 2017 as part of Paul Cook’s team and has been an integral part of the club’s success over the last three years, with his coaching praised by many players who have played for the club during that period.

“I would like to thank everyone associated with Wigan Athletic for three amazing years,” Anthony said.

“Every single player – past and present – has been top class to work with and I have been so proud to be a part of the journey we have been on.

“I’d like to thank Paul Cook for giving me the opportunity to be a part of his staff, who are an incredibly talented and committed group of people. It’s been a pleasure to work with you all and I’d especially like to thank Leam Richardson, Nick Colgan, Andrew Procter, Nick Meace, Dr. Jonathan Tobin and Adam Smith for your support throughout the last three years.

“The club staff behind the scenes have been brilliant since day one – so many of you have become friends and I wish you all well in the future.

“Finally, I’d like to thank the Wigan Athletic supporters. The staff have always appreciated the backing you have given us and the players. Some of the moments we have all shared together will live with me forever.”

Paul Stanley, on behalf of the Joint Administrators, added: “Anthony has secured a fantastic opportunity at the highest level; he’s an excellent coach and leaves with our best wishes.

“Both ourselves and Anthony have turned down approaches from EFL clubs for his services during the past few weeks but the opportunity he has now secured was too good for us to stand in his way.”[/article]