Confirmed Transfers (2015/16)

[King Binny]

Matt Mills - Nottingham Forest (free transfer)

[article=http://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/article/mills-signs-for-forest-2518565.aspx#Wl40c4TFsPruf5Q5.99]Nottingham Forest have completed the signing of central defender Matt Mills.

The 28-year-old worked with Reds manager Dougie Freedman at Bolton, where Mills played for three years before his contract came to an end this summer.

After spending time with Southampton and Manchester City as a youngster, Mills has picked up considerable Football League experience with spells at Doncaster, Reading and Leicester.

He made 41 appearances for Bolton last season, scoring five goals, and will now commence his preparations for the 2015-16 campaign at The City Ground.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Ben Amos - Bolton (free transfer)

[article=http://www.bwfc.co.uk/news/article/ben-amos-completes-bolton-wanderers-move-2518368.aspx#qeP8xA1pypVS1LmT.99]Bolton Wanderers have officially completed the signing of Ben Amos.

The goalkeeper has put pen to paper on a four-year contract.

The Manchester United academy graduate previously enjoyed a temporary spell at Macron Stadium during the course of the 2014/15 campaign, making a total of ten appearances for the Whites during that time.

The shot-stopper, who joined the Red Devils as a youngster, made seven senior appearances at Old Trafford alongside enjoying loan stints with Carlisle United, Hull City, Oldham Athletic and Peterborough United.

And upon the expiration of his contract with Manchester United, Neil Lennon has moved to secure the keeper’s signature ahead of the new campaign.[/article]

Gary Madine - Bolton (free transfer)

[article=http://www.bwfc.co.uk/news/article/gary-madine-signs-for-bolton-wanderers-2518386.aspx#y3UJhECjYwZxymbl.99]Bolton Wanderers have completed the signing of Gary Madine on a two-year deal.

A product of Carlisle United’s youth academy, the 24-year-old striker started his professional career with the Cumbrians, spending brief stints with Rochdale, Coventry City and Chesterfield during his time at Brunton Park.

Linking up with Sheffield Wednesday in January 2011, Madine made over 100 appearances for the Owls alongside temporary spells back at Carlisle, Coventry and latterly Blackpool.

Following the expiration of his contract at Hillsborough this summer however, Wanderers have secured the frontman’s services.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Chris Wood - Leeds (£2 million plus add ons)

[article=http://www.leedsunited.com/news/article/12kzwnyxkct4u1a41k2ju2w2ue/title/wood-completes-united-switch]We are delighted to confirm the signing of striker Chris Wood from Leicester City on a four-year deal.

Wood, 23, arrives at Elland Road for an undisclosed fee, with the club having beaten off stiff competition from other Championship rivals for his signature.

The New Zealand international becomes United’s fourth summer signing following the additions of Charlie Horton, Lee Erwin and Sol Bamba earlier this month, as Uwe Rosler's squad continues to take shape for the new campaign.

“I think he’s another important piece in the jigsaw,” the head coach told leedsunited.com . “We were looking for a number nine type – like Chris Wood is.

“He’s physical, strong and experienced in this league. He has potential to develop and has his best years in front of him.

“It’s exciting. He already has a proven goalscoring record and I think there are many goals to come. We think that he is the right player.”

Wood, who joined Leicester from West Brom in 2013, scored 20 times during his 62 appearances in all competitions for the Foxes.

He found the net on the opening day of the Premier League season in Leicester’s 2-2 draw with Everton, but top-flight opportunities became limited for the striker and he subsequently moved on loan to Ipswich for the second half of 2014/15.

Wood’s career began in New Zealand - representing Cambridge FC, Waikato FC and then Hamilton Wanderers - before he made the switch to England with West Brom as a highly-rated youngster back in 2009.

Four years at the Hawthorns, which included loan spells at Barnsley, Brighton, Birmingham, Bristol City and Millwall, brought limited first-team chances with the Baggies, and he eventually joined Leicester permanently in January 2013 following a prolific loan stint at Millwall.

Wood ended that campaign with an impressive 22 goals from 43 appearances, establishing himself as one of the division’s hottest properties. He netted eight in 29 games during Leicester’s promotion-winning campaign and featured seven times in the Premier League last season.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Zeljko Petrovic - Sunderland (Assistant Head Coach)
Paul Bracewell - Sunderland (First Team Coach)
Adrian Tucker - Sunderland (Goalkeeping Coach)
[article=http://www.safc.com/news/team-news/2015/june/backroom-team-confirmed]Dick Advocaat has confirmed the return of his backroom staff for the new season.

The Dutchman will be joined by assistant head coach Zeljko Petrovic and first team coach Paul Bracewell, along with goalkeeping coach Adrian Tucker.

Petrovic, who hails from the former Yugoslavia, joined Sunderland along with Advocaat with nine league games to play last season and helped the Dutchman retain the club’s top-flight status. The 49-year-old also worked with Advocaat during his time with the Serbia national team.

Meanwhile, Bracewell joined the first-team set-up following the head coach’s arrival having previously coached within the club’s Academy. He made 226 senior appearances for Sunderland during three spells with the club and was capped three times at full international level by England.

Goalkeeping coach Tucker hails from Wales and joined Swansea City’s coaching staff in 2009 having previously managed the Women’s national side. He has also worked with Birmingham City and is the current England U20s goalkeeping coach.

Meanwhile, sports scientist Scott Pearce will also continue in his role with the first team.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Tomasz Kuszczak - Birmingham (free transfer)

[article=http://www.bcfc.com/news/article/birmingham-city-tomasz-kuszczak-2511287.aspx#0VZzAag92rG0c7kg.99]Blues have signed top Polish goalkeeper Tomasz Kuszczak

The 33-year-old has joined the Club on a two-year deal, having been released by Wolverhampton Wanderers this summer.

Kuszczak becomes the second new goalkeeper to join Blues in less than a week, following the arrival of Adam Legzdins.

The experienced stopper began his playing career in Germany with Hertha Berlin, before making the switch to England to link up with West Bromwich Albion in 2004.


After three years at the Hawthorns, which also included a spell out on loan at Manchester United, the Red Devils made the deal permanent in 2007.

Although the Pole found his first team opportunities limited at Old Trafford he was a member of the squad that won three Premier League titles and two League Cups.

After five years and 48 appearances for the Reds, he moved down to the south coast to join up with Brighton & Hove Albion.

He was a regular for the Seagulls during his two-year spell with them, before being released at the end of the 2013/14 campaign. Most recently he was with Wolves on a short-term deal.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Miranda - Inter (reportedly €12 million)

[article]Inter have officially completed the signing of defender Joao Miranda from Atletico Madrid.

The Brazilian centre-back was in Milan yesterday to complete his medical, and the Nerazzurri have officially confirmed he has signed.

“F.C. Internazionale is delighted to announce that the paperwork has been completed and delivered to the Lega Serie A offices for the transfer of João Miranda de Souza Filho from Club Atletico de Madrid,” a statement on the club’s website announced.

“The Brazilian defender, who recently played in the 2015 Copa America and won the 2009 Confederations Cup with the Seleção, penned his contract after passing his medical tests in Milan

“The 30-year-old has won seven trophies at club level, including the 2013/14 Spanish league title.”[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Edgar Barreto - Sampdoria (free transfer)

[article]Sampdoria have officially completed the signing of Paraguayan midfielder Edgar Barreto from Palermo.

The 30-year-old arrives on a free transfer after four seasons with the Rosanero, where he scored seven goals in 122 appearances.

The central midfielder, who has 60 Paraguay caps to his name, has also had spells at Reggina and Atalanta since first arriving on the peninsula in 2007.

“Now we can say: Edgar Osvaldo Barreto is officially a Sampdoria player,” read a message on Sampdoria’s official Facebook page.

“Born in Asuncion, the capital of Paraguay, on July 15 1984, the midfielder will meet the media at the Temu sport centre at the end of the first morning training session for the Blucerchiati.”[/article]

OptaPaolo ‏@OptaPaolo https://twitter.com/OptaPaolo/status/615833037549477888
122 - Edgar Barreto played 122 league games with Palermo since 2011 - record among his teammates. Samp.

 

[King Binny]

Danny Blind - Netherlands (Head Coach)

[article]Danny Blind has been named head coach of the Netherlands national team from 1 August. Blind takes over from Guus Hiddink, under whom he served as assistant coach until recently.

KNVB management reached an agreement with Danny Blind and his agent about the change of position on Wednesday afternoon,. Under it, Blind will also serve as head coach until 1 August 2018, with a moment of evaluation scheduled after the 2015-16 season.

"We are pleased that we have quickly found a suitable successor to Guus Hiddink soon after his departure, and from within our own ranks as well. We wish Danny and his staff every success,” said KNVB director Bert van Oostveen.

Danny Blind responded from his holiday address: "Together with the staff and players, I’ll be working hard to ensure qualification for next year’s European Championships. That's my only goal, to reach next year’s Euros. I’m not looking back, I’m not going to look beyond next year either - only reaching the European Championship counts.”

The Netherlands head coach will give more details about his appointment at the first press conference in the run-up to the upcoming qualifiers games against Iceland (at home on 3 September) and Turkey (away on 6 September).

Following Danny Blind’s appointment, KNVB management are now looking for a new assistant coach.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Robert Rowan - Brentford (Head of Football Operations)
Bartek Sylwestrzak - Brentford (Ball Striking & Technique Coach)
Gianni Vio - Brentford (Set Piece Coach)
Tom Bates - Brentford (Performance Psychologist & Coach?)
Paul Williams - Brentford (Logistics Manager)
[article=http://www.brentfordfc.co.uk/news/article/brentford-football-club-football-staff-update-2518848.aspx#gEuQpuuUOcfPETL4.99]With pre-season training ahead of the 2015/16 Sky Bet Championship starting today, Brentford FC can confirm further additions to the coaching and football operations staff.

The First Team squad return from their summer break today, Wednesday 1 July, for their first days with new Head Coach Marinus Dijkhuizen, his assistant Roy Hendriksen and Head of Football Philosophy and Player Development Flemming Pedersen, who is also part of the coaching team.

During the close season there have been further additions to the football department.

Robert Rowan is in position as Head of Football Operations and three specialist coaches are in place – Bartek Sylwestrzak, Gianni Vio and Tom Bates.

Additionally, Paul Williams has been added to the staff as Logistics Manager.

Robert has experience working for Celtic and the Scottish FA, as well as in Europe.

He arrived at Griffin Park last year but will now take up a new role, managing the day to day football operations at Brentford’s Jersey Road Training Ground and working closely with Co-Directors of Football Rasmus Ankersen and Phil Giles.

Bartek was also at Brentford last season, mainly working with the younger players.

He will now work with the First Team as part of the technical coaching team and is a specialist in helping players with ball striking and technique.

Gianni has joined Brentford as set-piece coach having spent last season with A. C. Milan.

He previously worked with Catania and Fiorentina before moving to Milan last summer.

Tom will join Brentford from West Bromwich Albion, where he has been a coach and performance psychologist for the past three years.

He has also worked for the Football Association, Birmingham City and AFC Bournemouth during his coaching career.

Former England Under-21 international Paul had a lengthy playing career with Derby County, Coventry City and Southampton among others.

Since retirement he has worked at Southampton, in the Academy, and at the Premier League among others.

Rasmus Ankersen said: “We are very happy to have the new football staff in place.

“We are delighted to secure specialists who will aid our performance and we are looking forward to working with them.

“The players will, I am sure, benefit from working with talented staff that we have in all departments of the Club.

“I would like to formally welcome them to the Club and wish them all the best for their time with us.”[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Benoît Assou-Ekotto - St Etienne (free transfer)

[article]Cameroon defender Benoit Assou-Ekotto has signed a one-year deal with French Ligue 1 side St Etienne.

The 31-year-old has been without a club since leaving English Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur, where he spent nine years.

He did not play at all for Tottenham in the 2014-15 season and spent the previous season on loan with Queens Park Rangers.

"Officially at St Etienne so happy - back in football," he wrote on Twitter.

Assou-Ekotto has not played for Cameroon since the 2014 World Cup in Brazil when he was involved in an argument with his team-mate Benjamin Moukandjo and even appeared to headbutt him.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Saidy Janko - Celtic (undisclosed fee)

[article]CELTIC Football Club can confirm that it has completed the signing of Saidy Janko from Manchester United on a four year contract, subject to receiving satisfactory medical results which should hopefully be with the Club tomorrow morning.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Sebastian Coates - Sunderland (undisclosed fee)

[article=http://www.safc.com/news/team-news/2015/july/coates-signs]Sunderland have completed the signing of Uruguayan international defender Sebastian Coates on a permanent transfer from Liverpool.

Coates, who spent the 2014-15 season on loan at the Stadium of Light, joins the club on a four-year deal for an undisclosed fee.

The South American, 24, played a key role in Dick Advocaat’s nine games in charge at the end of last season, helping Sunderland achieve a haul of nine points and three clean sheets.

The central defender has spent the summer on international duty with Uruguay at the Copa America and will return to Wearside next week.

Speaking about the signing, sporting director Lee Congerton said: “Sebastian was an important part of the team under Dick last season and we are delighted that he has joined us on a permanent basis.

“He has Barclays Premier League experience, which is important and, after spending last season on loan with us, he will be able to settle into the team very quickly.”[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Ryan Babel - Al Ain

[article=http://www.thenational.ae/sport/football/former-liverpool-forward-babel-arrives-as-al-ains-first-summer-signing]Al Ain have completed the signing of Ryan Babel, the former Liverpool and Dutch international forward, from Turkish side Kasimpasa, subject to a medical.

Babel, 28, landed in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday to finalise the transfer, joining the Arabian Gulf League champions on a two-year deal. He is Al Ain’s first summer signing.

He takes the place of Miroslav Stoch, the Slovak who spent last season on loan from Fenerbahce. The club chose not to make permanent the move last month.

Babel’s acquisition will appease Al Ain supporters following a relatively quiet transfer window. The winger, a right-footer who predominantly plays on the left flank, began his professional career in his homeland with Ajax in 2004, when he graduated from the club’s youth set up.

He transferred to the Premier League three years later, going on to make 142 appearances for Liverpool. After three-and-a-half years at the Merseyside club, Babel moved to Germany’s Hoffenheim.​

He returned to Ajax on a one-year deal in 2012, before moving to Kasimpasa. Babel had limited success for the Istanbul-based side and Al Ain have taken a gamble on his chances of proving a success in the AGL.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Adil Rami - Sevilla (reportedly €3.5 million)\

[article]Milan defender Adil Rami is on the verge of a move to Sevilla, after the Spanish club confirmed a bid has been accepted.

The French defender has made it clear he wants to play in Europe next season, with Sevilla one of his options.

“Sevilla FC have reached an agreement with AC Milan for the transfer of Adil Rami,” a statement on the club’s official website announced.

“The French international will arrive for a medical next week when he returns from holiday, if all goes as expected he will sign a four-year contract.”

Marca reports that the fee for the former Valencia man is €3.5m.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Jamie Ward - Nottingham Forest (free transfer)

[article=http://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/article/ward-joins-the-reds-2520359.aspx]Nottingham Forest have completed their second signing of the summer.

Wide man Jamie Ward has arrived at The City Ground on a four-year deal.

The 29-year-old Northern Ireland international spent four years at Derby County before completing the switch, making 33 appearances and scoring six goals in his final season at the iPro Stadium.

Ward, who came through Aston Villa’s youth ranks, has considerable Football League experience after successful spells with Torquay, Chesterfield and Sheffield United.

He follows in the footsteps of Matt Mills, who completed his free transfer to The City Ground yesterday.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Paul McShane - Reading (free transfer)

[article= http://www.readingfc.co.uk/news/article/paul-mcshane-reading-ireland-hull-city-defender-signing-transfer-2520411.aspx#BPw8lhy8Wm2jxU5H.99]The Royals are delighted to announce a third signing in the space of four days with the arrival of Ireland international defender Paul McShane.

The 29-year-old brings great experience and quality to Madejski Stadium, and signs a contract until the summer of 2018, having left Hull City this summer.

Manager Steve Clarke said, “Even before Alex Pearce chose to leave the club on a free transfer I had decided that another experienced central defender was needed for this season.

“I knew that Paul’s contract with Hull City was due to expire and was always monitoring the situation. When we met up earlier in the summer for a chat I knew that Paul would be a good signing for Reading FC and I’m pleased that we managed to get the deal completed.

“As well as his obvious talents as an experienced defender who is aggressive both in the air and on the ground, I felt that he was a good character to bring into our squad.

“Paul has gained good experience at many clubs and, like Stephen Quinn, was an important part of a promotion-winning team. He has a winning mentality and it will be good for our two young central defenders, Michael Hector and Jake Cooper, to train and play alongside Paul.”

With the majority of his career spent in the Premier League, Paul has a great pedigree in the game, having initially come through the youth system at Manchester United. He then played in the top flight with West Bromwich Albion before moving on to Sunderland for a fee in the region of £2.5million.

In 2008 he began a long and successful spell with Hull, the majority of which was in the Premier League. In 2013 he scored on the final day of the season as the Tigers secured a second promotion.

With Orlando Sa and Stephen Quinn having already signed this week, it has been a very positive few days for the club. Paul will now meet up with his new teammates this Sunday as the squad fly out to Thailand for our pre-season tour. [/article]

 

[King Binny]

Jazz Richards - Fulham (reportedly £500k)

[article=http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2015/july/02/jazz-joins-fulham]The Club is delighted to confirm the signing of Jazz Richards from Swansea City on a deal until the summer of 2018, with an option to extend until 2019, for an undisclosed fee.

The defender – who can operate on either side – started 14 games for the Whites last season after joining on loan in January.

After returning to his parent club, Richards featured three times for the Swans in the Barclays Premier League, before helping Wales to a superb 1-0 victory over Group B rivals Belgium in qualifying for the European Championship.

The 24-year-old leaves the Liberty Stadium having made more than 50 appearances for the club, while he has also taken in successful loan spells at Crystal Palace – where he won promotion to the top flight – and Huddersfield Town.

Speaking at the Club’s Motspur Park Training Ground this morning, Richards said: “When I was on loan here last season I settled in straight away with the lads and the staff, and I enjoyed the style of football that Kit Symons was trying to get the team playing. That made me want to come back.

“Kit’s a good manager, a good coach, and what he’s trying to get us to do will take the Club forward, and we’ve got the players to do so. And we’ve already made some good signings this summer.

“In some of the games last season we were unfortunate with the results, but with the crowd behind us this year supporting the lads I think we can go on and do big things.”[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Konstantin Kerschbaumer - Brentford (undisclosed fee)

[article=http://www.brentfordfc.co.uk/news/article/brentford-sign-konstantin-kerschbaumer-from-fc-admira-wacker-2517858.aspx#b5C5SQqE0D7ozwfL.99]Brentford have signed Austrian central midfield player Konstantin Kerschbaumer from FC Admira Wacker Mödling for an undisclosed fee. The 23-year-old completed the move, subject to international clearance, after passing a medical late last week.

Konstantin has signed a four year contract and will remain at Griffin Park until June 2019. An Austrian youth international, Konstantin, who is 23 today, joined Admira in January.

He made a big impact in the Austrian top division – the Austrian Bundesliga – playing 16 games between 14 February and the end of the season, scoring once. Konstantin, who was on the books of SK Rapid Wien – better known as Rapid Vienna – as a youngster, played for SKN St. Pölten in the Europa League last season.

Marinus Dijkhuizen, Brentford FC Head Coach, said: “I am delighted that Konstantin has chosen to join us at Brentford.

“He is a box to box midfield player who I think will add versatility to our squad.

“I look forward to working with him in training and seeing him play in our upcoming pre-season friendly games.”

Phil Giles, Brentford FC Co-Director of Football, said: “Konstantin was at Admira for a relatively short period, but in that time demonstrated that he is a talented player who can develop further.

“He is ambitious to play for the Austrian national team and we hope we can help him achieve this aim at Brentford.”[/article]

Andreas Bjelland - Brentford (reportedly £2 million)

[article=http://www.brentfordfc.co.uk/news/article/brentfod-sign-andreas-bjelland-from-fc-twente-2520262.aspx#8AFYvfbA7DRCOrJ1.99]Denmark international centre back Andreas Bjelland is now a Brentford player after completing a move from FC Twente this morning.

The 26-year-old finalised the move, subject to international clearance, after passing a medical late yesterday.

He has signed a three-year contract and will remain at Griffin Park until the summer of 2018.

Andreas has won 21 caps for Denmark and has played three of their five qualifying matches for the 2016 UEFA European Championships.

He played for Denmark against England at Wembley last year and played four qualifiers as the Danes missed out on the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.

He has also represented his country at Under-16, Under-18, Under-19 and Under-21 level, playing in the 2011 UEFA European Championships.

Andreas came through the youth ranks at Lyngby and made his debut for them at the age of 18.

He moved on FC Nordsjælland in 2009 and spent three years there, winning the Danish title and working with Flemming Pedersen – now on the Brentford coaching staff, before signing for Twente.

Andreas captained the Dutch club last season when they reached the semi-final and helped them to a third-place finish in 2013/14.

Marinus Dijkhuizen, Brentford FC Head Coach, said: I am very happy that we have brought Andreas to Brentford.

“He brings a lot of experience to the squad and that is good for us as we have a lot of young players.

“He is good defender but also likes to play football from the back.

“Andreas is also a Danish international and it is good for the image of Brentford FC that we can attract such players.”

Phil Giles, Co-Director of Football, added: “Andreas had lots of options when he decided to leave FC Twente this summer.

“I'm therefore delighted that he chose Brentford and recognises the long term aspirations of the Club.

“Andreas won a Danish league title while working with Flemming Pedersen at Nordsjælland in 2012, and I know that Flemming is particularly happy to have opportunity to work with Andreas once again.

“We welcome Andreas to our Club and look forward to him joining our pre-season preparations.”[/article]

OptaJohan ‏@OptaJohan 7h7 hours ago
91% - Andreas Bjelland had the best tackle success rate (91%) of defenders with 25+ games last Eredivisie season. Brisk.

 

[King Binny]

Karim Rekik - Marseille (£3.5 million)

Lucas Ocampos - Marseille (reportedly €7 million)

[article]Marseille have completed the signings of Dutch international defender Karim Rekik and Argentinian winger Lucas Ocampos, the Ligue 1 club announced on Thursday.

Rekik moves to the south of France from Manchester City after spending last season on loan at Dutch champions PSV Eindhoven while Ocampos joins from Monaco having already spent the second half of the last campaign on loan at the Stade Velodrome.

The 20-year-old duo take the number of summer signings at OM to four following the earlier recruits of Nantes winger Georges-Kevin Nkoudou, also 20, and former Sochaux goalkeeper Yohann Pele.

However, Marseille fans have been worried about the number of players leaving the club this summer.

Midfielder Giannelli Imbula was sold to Portuguese giants FC Porto for around 20 million euros ($22.1m, £14.2m) on Wednesday, following last season`s top scorer Andre-Pierre Gignac, Ghana star Andre Ayew, defender Jeremy Morel and playmaker Dimitri Payet out of the door.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Fares Bahlouli - Monaco (reportedly €3.5 million)

[article=http://www.asmonaco.com/en/article/bahlouli-signs-until-2020-68303.html]AS Monaco completed the signing of the French under-21 international on Tuesday, as the 20 year old put pen to paper on a five-year contract.

Fares Bahlouli - a central attacking midfielder who came through the academy system at OL – will link up with fellow AS Monaco recruit Thomas Lemar, after the two young players won the Toulon Tournament a few weeks ago with the French U20 side, as well as Anthony Martial, a member of the same generation (class of 1995) who also learned his trade at Olympique Lyonnais.

”I’m delighted to be joining AS Monaco. This is a club that’s building a great project by putting faith in young players. I’m looking forward to meeting up with my new teammates. I already know some of them, like Anthony Martial with whom I started out at youth level.”

Vadim Vasilyev, Vice-President & CEO: ”Fares will have the opportunity to demonstrate all the talent that people have seen in him since he was a youngster. We hope he will progress under Leonardo Jardim’s guidance and realise his promise.”[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Kolbeinn Sigthorsson - Nantes (reportedly €3 million)

5 year deal.

OptaJohan ‏@OptaJohan Jul 1
8% - Kolbeinn Sigthórsson has the lowest % of games lost of any player (with 75+ games) over the last 4 Eredivisie seasons. Canary.

 

[King Binny]

Mark Uth - Hoffenheim (reportedly €3 million)

[article=http://www.achtzehn99.de/tsg-land-striker-mark-uth/]TSG have signed Mark-Alexander Uth from Dutch side SC Heerenveen. The 23-year-old striker has agreed a deal at TSG until 30th June 2018. The transfer was completed today when he finally put pen to paper on his contract.

“Uth has generated a lot of interest this last year with the manner in which he plays and his outstanding goalscoring record,” said TSG’s director of football, before adding: “His development isn’t over yet. He has made great advances over the last twelve months and will be an exciting player who provides a real goal threat for TSG.”

Mark Uth is looking forward to his Bundesliga challenge. After an impressive season in the Netherlands, he is now highly motivated to be able to prove himself in one of the best leagues in the world. He believes he will easily fit into Hoffenheim’s attacking playing style.

Born in Cologne, Uth had been with SC Heerenveen since July 2012. After being loaned out to league rivals Heracles Almelo, the imposing striker finally made his breakthrough last year. He scored 15 times in 32 league appearances, with the left-footer also providing a further eleven assists. The former Germany U20 international has also scored five times in the Europa League play-offs.[/article]

OptaJohan ‏@OptaJohan 3h3 hours ago
15/10 - Mark Uth is one of only three players with 10+ goals & 10+ assists last Eredivisie season (with L. de Jong & Ziyech). Versatile.

 

[King Binny]

Sebastian Polter - QPR (reportedly £1 million)

[article=http://www.qpr.co.uk/news/article/sebastian-polter-joins-qpr-fsv-mainz-05-2521174.aspx#Ofq1251KSxVrjchW.99]QPR have completed the signing of German striker Sebastian Polter from FSV Mainz 05.

Polter, 24, arrives on a three year deal, after Rangers agreed an undisclosed fee with the Bundesliga side for his services.

Polter, who spent last season on loan at FC Berlin, scoring an impressive 14 goals in 29 appearances, is excited about the challenge of playing in England, commenting: “I'm really happy to be here.

“It's my dream to play in England, so I couldn't be happier.

“To play for Queens Park Rangers, at this stage of my career, is really good for me and something I am very excited about.

“It's a physical league, but I'm a physical player, a team player, and I feel I will adapt.

“I’m really looking forward to playing here at Loftus Road in front of the supporters.”

R’s Head Coach, Chris Ramsey, believes Polter’s game is well-suited to English football, telling www.qpr.co.uk: “I am pleased to bring Seb in. He’s a player who has been under the radar a little bit, and our scouts have done a good job in identifying him. I am really looking forward to working with him.

“He fits the description of what we need for the Championship, he’s got a good goalscoring record and looks a very good player.

“He reminds me of a Bobby Zamora of a few years ago, and if he can emulate anything like Bobby achieved here, that will be brilliant for the club.

“I am sure he will enjoy working with us. This is a great club for him to come to in order to prove himself.

“This is another piece of the jig-saw, but we are obviously still looking for more players.”

Director of Football, Les Ferdinand, added: “We're delighted to have Seb here. He's a player we've scouted extensively – and all our reports have been positive.

“He scored a lot of goals in the second tier in Germany last year and he's got great potential to keep improving as a player.

“There was lots of interest for him from Bundesliga clubs but he feels, as we do, that his game is suited to English football, and he has a great desire to prove himself in this country.”[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Martin Montoya - Inter (loan with option to buy)

 

[King Binny]

Cristiano Giuntoli -Napoli (Sporting Director)

[article]Napoli have officially confirmed the appointment of former Carpi man Cristiano Giuntoli as sporting director.

The move has been widely known for some time, with Giuntoli involved in the signing of Mirko Valdifiori, but the Partenopei have officially announced the appointment in a short statement.

“SSC Napoli announces that Cristiano Giuntoli assumed the role of sporting director, starting from July 1.”

Giuntoli could not be officially announced in the role until his contract with Carpi expired.[/article]

Jose Holebas - Watford (€2.5 million + potential add ons of €500k)

[article]Roma have officially announced the sale of Jose Holebas to Watford, for a fee of up to €3m.

It was reported earlier today that a deal had been struck between the two clubs, with the Greek international having already accepted a move.

“AS Roma announces that it has agreed a deal with Watford FC for the permanent transfer of Jose Holebas, for a fee of €2.5m,” a statement on the club’s official website confirmed.

“The agreement also provides for a bonus fee of €500,000 if the English club achieve certain sporting goals.”[/article]

Ainsley Maitland-Niles - Ipswich (loan)

[article=http://www.itfc.co.uk/news/article/ainsley-maitland-niles-joins-ipswich-town-from-arsenal-2521301.aspx#REMTIcPXViYeMc28.99]Town have completed the season-long loan signing of Ainsley Maitland-Niles, who joins from Premier League side Arsenal.

Mick McCarthy has added the winger to his squad ahead of the new campaign, following Brett Pitman and Ryan Fraser through the door at Portman Road.

The teenager, who has featured for the Gunners in the Champions League and the Premier League, is highly thought of at the Emirates Stadium but will now switch his focus to the Blues for the upcoming term.

Maitland-Niles, who has represented England at youth level, can also play in central midfield but is more likely to be used as an out and out winger at Portman Road.

This is the youngster’s first move away from Arsenal and will be hoping to gain valuable experience from his loan spell with Town.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Luiz Adriano - AC Milan (€8 million)

[article]Milan have officially announced the signing of Shakhtar Donetsk striker Luiz Adriano on a five-year deal.

A move has been growing closer all week, with the player reported to have signed a pre-contract agreement with the Rossoneri.

Following a meeting between the club and the player’s agent at Casa Milan tonight, the Diavolo have announced his immediate signing.

“AC Milan announces that it has today acquired outright the player Luiz Adriano from FC Shakhtar Donetsk, who has signed a contract which runs until June 30, 2020,” a statement on the club’s official website confirmed.

“The player will join up with the team in the coming days.”[/article]

OptaPaolo ‏@OptaPaolo 3h3 hours ago
64% - Luiz Adriano had a 64% shot conversion rate in the last Champions League: the highest among players with 3+ goals scored. Lethal.

Strikeforce of Adriano and Bacca.
Both Milan clubs making lots of moves this transfer window.

 

[King Binny]

Joel Obi - Torino (reportedly €2.4 million)

[article]Torino have officially announced the signing of Inter midfielder Joel Obi on a four-year contract.

The 24-year-old came through the Nerazzurri youth ranks, and went on to make over 50 appearances for the first team, as well as having a loan spell at Parma.

The Nigerian international has joined the Granata for a reported €2.4m, as confirmed by the club’s official website.

A short statement announced that Obi had undergone a medical this morning, before signing a four-year deal with the club, and will join up with his new teammates on July 8.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Jon Stead - Notts County (free transfer)

[article=http://www.nottscountyfc.co.uk/news/article/jon-stead-notts-county-meadow-lane-2521891.aspx#cKsFZaOfZCpUHHRe.99]The Magpies are delighted to announce the signing of striker Jon Stead on a two-year deal subject to a medical…

The 32-year-old forward arrives from Huddersfield Town and brings a wealth of experience and goals having played in the top tier of the English game for Blackburn Rovers and Sheffield United.

There he helped Rovers stay clear of relegation in 2004, whilst collecting a play-off medal from Town at the end of the season after his 18 goals that season.

Stead has also played for Sunderland, Ipswich Town and Bristol City, commanding over four million in transfer fees and was also named Powerade Player of the Month for his form for Derby County on loan after three goals in as many games in the Championship.

The 6’2 Englishman was on loan at Bradford City last season in League One, scoring most notably against Premier League sides Chelsea and Sunderland in their brilliant FA Cup run where they reached the semi-final stage, putting in a man of the match display at Stamford Bridge.

In total last term, he scored 11 times in 40 appearances, including a goal against the Magpies at Meadow Lane back in March and boasts over 100 goals in a career which started with his hometown club Huddersfield back in 2002.

Stead has also represented his country for the Under 21s, scoring once in 11 appearances.[/article]

 

[Ryan]

Jason Davidson - Huddersfield Town (free transfer)

[article=http://www.htafc.com/news/article/jason-davidson-joins-huddersfield-town-2509271.aspx#QvqTV82w0zp9XYSz.99]Huddersfield Town has today completed the signing of Australian international left back Jason Davidson on a three year contract.

The 23 year-old, who has 18 caps for his country, joins as a free agent, having left Premier League West Bromwich Albion at the conclusion of the 2014/15 season after his existing two year deal with the Baggies was ended by mutual consent.

Although he is an Australian native, Jason qualifies for an EU passport through his Greek mother.

On welcoming Jason as the Club’s second signing of the summer 2015 transfer window, Town Manager Chris Powell explained:

“A lot of hard work has gone into bringing Jason to the Club, so it’s fantastic that he’s joined us ahead of the start of pre-season training on 1 July.

“Recruiting a top quality left back was a key priority in this transfer window and we believe we have achieved this in signing Jason.

“The Club’s scouting process started tracking Jason a full 18 months ago during his time in the Eredivisie and our team has watched him regularly ever since for Heracles, Australia and West Brom’s sides. We tried to recruit him in March, but could not reach a deal.

“He possesses the attributes that we were looking for in a left back; he is an athletic player who has attacking ability, but most importantly he is a good defender. As a left back in my playing days, I believe the latter is the strongest quality required.”

On top of his Australian and Greek heritage, Jason also has Japanese ancestry through his Grandmother on his famous footballing father Alan’s side.

Jason started his footballing development in Japan at the age of 14, spending three years at the Seiritsu Gakuen School in Tokyo.

Upon turning 17, he returned to Australia and signed for Victorian Premier League club Hume City in his hometown of Melbourne, where he played part-time whilst attending college.

After just two months, his form for Hume earned him a call-up to Australia’s Under-20 national side in March 2009 and at the conclusion of the season he was named the Victorian Premier League’s U21 Player of the Year.[/article]

Played against him loads of times.

 

[Ryan]

CHAMPIONSHIP PLAYER HAIRCUT?

Matt Mills - Nottingham Forest (free transfer)

Ben Amos - Bolton (free transfer)

Gary Madine - Bolton (free transfer)

Jamie Ward - Nottingham Forest (free transfer)

Paul McShane - Reading (free transfer)

Konstantin Kerschbaumer - Brentford (undisclosed fee)

Kolbeinn Sigthorsson - Nantes (reportedly €3 million)

Jon Stead - Notts County (free transfer)

CHECK!