Carlos Eduardo - Al-Hilal (reportedly €7 million)
Confirmed Transfers (2015/16)
- Thread starter King Binny
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What the fuck happened to Roberto Carlos?
Etienne Capoue - Watford (£5 - 7million)
[article=http://www.watfordfc.com/news/article/150703-etienne-capoue-signs-for-watford-fc-2524033.aspx#MMvht4tLBbl5qdG1.99]WATFORD FC is delighted to announce the signing of Etienne Capoue from Tottenham Hotspur for a club record transfer fee.
The 26-year-old midfielder, who has signed a four-year Vicarage Road contract, arrived at White Hart Lane in 2013 and made 24 appearances in the Premier League.
Capoue joined Spurs from French side Toulouse, where he played nearly 200 first-team matches after progressing through the youth ranks.
It was at ‘Le Téfécé’ where he continued to mature as a player, consistent performances earning him a nomination for Ligue 1's 'Young Player of the Year' award in 2013.
The France international has featured seven times for his country, scoring once; in a 3-1 victory over Belarus during qualification for the 2014 FIFA World Cup.[/article]
[article=http://www.watfordfc.com/news/article/150703-etienne-capoue-signs-for-watford-fc-2524033.aspx#MMvht4tLBbl5qdG1.99]WATFORD FC is delighted to announce the signing of Etienne Capoue from Tottenham Hotspur for a club record transfer fee.
The 26-year-old midfielder, who has signed a four-year Vicarage Road contract, arrived at White Hart Lane in 2013 and made 24 appearances in the Premier League.
Capoue joined Spurs from French side Toulouse, where he played nearly 200 first-team matches after progressing through the youth ranks.
It was at ‘Le Téfécé’ where he continued to mature as a player, consistent performances earning him a nomination for Ligue 1's 'Young Player of the Year' award in 2013.
The France international has featured seven times for his country, scoring once; in a 3-1 victory over Belarus during qualification for the 2014 FIFA World Cup.[/article]
Nani - Fenerbahce (£4.25 million)
[article]Manchester United winger Nani has completed a move to Fenerbahce.
The Portugal international spent last season with his former club Sporting Lisbon but has accepted the offer of a fresh challenge in Turkey after arriving in Istanbul over the weekend to finalise the transfer.
Following his signing for the Reds in the summer of 2007, the 28-year-old made 230 appearances and scored 41 goals. He was part of the team that won the 2008 Champions League, calmly converting a key penalty during the shoot-out victory over Chelsea in Moscow, and produced some marvellous individual performances.
Fenerbahce are one of the potential opponents for Louis van Gaal's men in the Champions League qualifier next month.
Everybody at United would like to wish Nani every future success in his career.[/article]
[article]Manchester United winger Nani has completed a move to Fenerbahce.
The Portugal international spent last season with his former club Sporting Lisbon but has accepted the offer of a fresh challenge in Turkey after arriving in Istanbul over the weekend to finalise the transfer.
Following his signing for the Reds in the summer of 2007, the 28-year-old made 230 appearances and scored 41 goals. He was part of the team that won the 2008 Champions League, calmly converting a key penalty during the shoot-out victory over Chelsea in Moscow, and produced some marvellous individual performances.
Fenerbahce are one of the potential opponents for Louis van Gaal's men in the Champions League qualifier next month.
Everybody at United would like to wish Nani every future success in his career.[/article]
Angelo Henriquez - Dinamo Zagreb (reportedly £1.1 million)
[article]Angelo Henriquez's loan move to Dinamo Zagreb has been made permanent.
The Chile international's switch to Croatia was confirmed following a prolific stint in the capital last season, when he scored 21 times during the club's title-winning campaign.
Henriquez, bought from Universidad de Chile in 2012, netted once for United's senior side during a pre-season friendly draw with AIK Fotboll in Stockholm. He also had loan spells with Wigan Athletic and Real Zaragoza before heading to Zagreb.
As he celebrates Chile's Copa America win, after coming on as a substitute during the final against Argentina, everybody at United would like to wish Angelo our best wishes for the future.[/article]
[article]Angelo Henriquez's loan move to Dinamo Zagreb has been made permanent.
The Chile international's switch to Croatia was confirmed following a prolific stint in the capital last season, when he scored 21 times during the club's title-winning campaign.
Henriquez, bought from Universidad de Chile in 2012, netted once for United's senior side during a pre-season friendly draw with AIK Fotboll in Stockholm. He also had loan spells with Wigan Athletic and Real Zaragoza before heading to Zagreb.
As he celebrates Chile's Copa America win, after coming on as a substitute during the final against Argentina, everybody at United would like to wish Angelo our best wishes for the future.[/article]
Mawouna Amevor - Notts County
[article=http://www.nottscountyfc.co.uk/news/article/mawouna-amevor-notts-county-meadow-lane-2525168.aspx#l4HcSobo8ffkI218.99]The Magpies have agreed terms with Dutch born Togolese footballer Mawouna Amevor, signing a two-year deal…
The giant centre back, who can also play at right-back is set to be a figure point in the Notts back line this season.
The club are delighted to secure such a young talent that will bring both pace and power to the defence and help the club move forward, as the Magpies seek to bounce back into League One at the first attempt.
The 6’3 defender learnt his trade for Holland Eredivisie side FC Dordrecht, before breaking into their first team in 2010.
He spent three seasons there scoring four times in 71 appearances.
His form prompted Dutch side Go Ahead Eagles to swoop for the 23-year-old and he arrived in 2013, playing 35 times, scoring twice.
He also made his international debut for Togo in 2014 and has since played two more times for his country.[/article]
Genaro Snijders - Notts County
[article=http://www.nottscountyfc.co.uk/news/article/genaro-snjeders-notts-county-2528348.aspx#fxjlkdoY63PHHG75.99]The club are delighted to announce the arrival of winger Genaro Snijders on a two-year deal after he passed a medical on Monday...
The 25-year-old is another exciting player to be added to Manager Ricardo Moniz’s squad and will be a real asset to the club in their quest to gain promotion to League One at the first attempt.
The 5’6 wideman can play on both flanks and is comfortable upfront and will bring plenty of pace, trickery and experience to the club’s ranks.
Coming through the ranks at AZ Alkmaar, he secured a move to fellow Dutch side Vitesse where he progressed into their first team in 2008.
There he gained experience, playing 23-times and also playing on loan at FC Omniworld, there he scored three times in 11 appearances.
His second short-term move was to Willem II, which was made permanent in 2012. He spent one year there, score twice in 23 games.
Since then he has also played for FC Dordrecht and FC Oss, playing 37 times and scoring five times. [/article]
[article=http://www.nottscountyfc.co.uk/news/article/mawouna-amevor-notts-county-meadow-lane-2525168.aspx#l4HcSobo8ffkI218.99]The Magpies have agreed terms with Dutch born Togolese footballer Mawouna Amevor, signing a two-year deal…
The giant centre back, who can also play at right-back is set to be a figure point in the Notts back line this season.
The club are delighted to secure such a young talent that will bring both pace and power to the defence and help the club move forward, as the Magpies seek to bounce back into League One at the first attempt.
The 6’3 defender learnt his trade for Holland Eredivisie side FC Dordrecht, before breaking into their first team in 2010.
He spent three seasons there scoring four times in 71 appearances.
His form prompted Dutch side Go Ahead Eagles to swoop for the 23-year-old and he arrived in 2013, playing 35 times, scoring twice.
He also made his international debut for Togo in 2014 and has since played two more times for his country.[/article]
Genaro Snijders - Notts County
[article=http://www.nottscountyfc.co.uk/news/article/genaro-snjeders-notts-county-2528348.aspx#fxjlkdoY63PHHG75.99]The club are delighted to announce the arrival of winger Genaro Snijders on a two-year deal after he passed a medical on Monday...
The 25-year-old is another exciting player to be added to Manager Ricardo Moniz’s squad and will be a real asset to the club in their quest to gain promotion to League One at the first attempt.
The 5’6 wideman can play on both flanks and is comfortable upfront and will bring plenty of pace, trickery and experience to the club’s ranks.
Coming through the ranks at AZ Alkmaar, he secured a move to fellow Dutch side Vitesse where he progressed into their first team in 2008.
There he gained experience, playing 23-times and also playing on loan at FC Omniworld, there he scored three times in 11 appearances.
His second short-term move was to Willem II, which was made permanent in 2012. He spent one year there, score twice in 23 games.
Since then he has also played for FC Dordrecht and FC Oss, playing 37 times and scoring five times. [/article]
Zakaria Bakkali - Valencia (free transfer)
[article=http://en.valenciacf.com/ver/41783/official-statement--bakkali.html]Valencia Club de Fútbol have today reached an agreement with Belgian international Zakaria Bakkali to join the club through to June 30th, 2020.
The young Belgian player, born on January 20th, 1996, arrives on a free transfer after the conclusion of his contract at PSV Eindhoven –the Dutch side for whom he played 24 times in recent years. Bakkali, a product of the academy at Standard Liege at his home town, is considered to be one of the brightest talents in Belgian football and is very satisfied with this latest step in his career: “I am very young and it is a big step for me to join a club with the tradition and qualities of Valencia CF, in such an attractive and competitive league. I arrive here fully motivated to work hard and to help my new teammates. I had decided a while ago that I wanted to continue my career away from Eindhoven and I had many options from which to choose. Coming to Valencia CF and La Liga is a dream come true for me.”
Valencia CF Chairwoman Lay Hoon Chan welcomes the arrival of Bakkali: “This is a good signing for us, because it is not always easy to sign such a young player with so much talent and potential. He has already debuted for Belgium and played at PSV Eindhoven. We are very pleased that Zakaria has chosen to join us.”
After signing his contract, Bakkali will today travel to Austria with the squad for a preseason training camp.[/article]
[article=http://en.valenciacf.com/ver/41783/official-statement--bakkali.html]Valencia Club de Fútbol have today reached an agreement with Belgian international Zakaria Bakkali to join the club through to June 30th, 2020.
The young Belgian player, born on January 20th, 1996, arrives on a free transfer after the conclusion of his contract at PSV Eindhoven –the Dutch side for whom he played 24 times in recent years. Bakkali, a product of the academy at Standard Liege at his home town, is considered to be one of the brightest talents in Belgian football and is very satisfied with this latest step in his career: “I am very young and it is a big step for me to join a club with the tradition and qualities of Valencia CF, in such an attractive and competitive league. I arrive here fully motivated to work hard and to help my new teammates. I had decided a while ago that I wanted to continue my career away from Eindhoven and I had many options from which to choose. Coming to Valencia CF and La Liga is a dream come true for me.”
Valencia CF Chairwoman Lay Hoon Chan welcomes the arrival of Bakkali: “This is a good signing for us, because it is not always easy to sign such a young player with so much talent and potential. He has already debuted for Belgium and played at PSV Eindhoven. We are very pleased that Zakaria has chosen to join us.”
After signing his contract, Bakkali will today travel to Austria with the squad for a preseason training camp.[/article]
Andrea Pirlo - New York City FC (free transfer)
[article=http://www.nycfc.com/post/2015/07/06/andrea-pirlo-join-new-york-city-fc-third-designated-player]New York City FC are delighted to announce the signing of World Cup and UEFA Champions League winner Andrea Pirlo. One of the most decorated and respected midfielders in soccer, Pirlo will become the team’s third Designated Player and arrives to New York City FC on a free transfer from Juventus, 2015 UEFA Champions League Finalists.
Pirlo joins the Club on July 21 and will be available for selection immediately following that. Pirlo teams up with fellow Designated Players: David Villa, a World Cup and UEFA Champions League winner, and UEFA Champions League winner Frank Lampard completing a decorated international trio, who have had a huge impact on European soccer for over a decade.
In an exclusive interview with NYCFC.com, Pirlo said:
“I have been wanting this experience for a long time and now that the opportunity materialized I wanted to take it. This is a Club on the rise and shares my same hunger to achieve important results in the League. I am hoping to win.”
“I had several opportunities to play outside of Italy, but I never had a doubt in picking New York for the enthusiasm of the people that come watch the team.”
“I met with the coach, Jason Kreis, and he gave me a fantastic impression of the Club. He has well defined ideas in mind, and I am sure we will get on well and create a good relationship to train well and try to win together.”
Pirlo has spent his entire professional career in Italy and is renowned for his incredible passing range and set piece ability. In nearly 700 matches at club level he has won two Champions League titles, and has won the Italian title six times.
He has 115 caps for Italy and was part of the 2006 World Cup winning squad.
Speaking to NYCFC.com, Kreis said:
“We have said from the outset that the right player for the third DP slot was worth waiting for. Nobody could question that in Pirlo we are bringing one of the best in the world and one of the finest players to come to MLS. Like David Villa, his final game in Europe was the Champions League Final, which demonstrates a player competing at the highest level of our sport.”
“We are getting a player with a competitive spirit and a winning mentality. He’s not only won a World Cup, he was the Serie A Player of the Year in three of the last four seasons.”
Those words were echoed by New York City FC Sporting Director Claudio Reyna, who added:
“In Andrea Pirlo we are getting one of the most recognized and influential players in world soccer. We are building something incredibly special in New York; with a blend of exciting and experienced players who are known all over the world and with some fantastic young talent, who will only benefit from being around individuals like Andrea, David Villa and Frank Lampard. The greatest privilege of all will be to watch this team play in front of our incredible fans at Yankee Stadium.”
Pirlo will be officially added to New York City FC roster upon receipt of his P1 visa and ITC.[/article]
[article=http://www.nycfc.com/post/2015/07/06/andrea-pirlo-join-new-york-city-fc-third-designated-player]New York City FC are delighted to announce the signing of World Cup and UEFA Champions League winner Andrea Pirlo. One of the most decorated and respected midfielders in soccer, Pirlo will become the team’s third Designated Player and arrives to New York City FC on a free transfer from Juventus, 2015 UEFA Champions League Finalists.
Pirlo joins the Club on July 21 and will be available for selection immediately following that. Pirlo teams up with fellow Designated Players: David Villa, a World Cup and UEFA Champions League winner, and UEFA Champions League winner Frank Lampard completing a decorated international trio, who have had a huge impact on European soccer for over a decade.
In an exclusive interview with NYCFC.com, Pirlo said:
“I have been wanting this experience for a long time and now that the opportunity materialized I wanted to take it. This is a Club on the rise and shares my same hunger to achieve important results in the League. I am hoping to win.”
“I had several opportunities to play outside of Italy, but I never had a doubt in picking New York for the enthusiasm of the people that come watch the team.”
“I met with the coach, Jason Kreis, and he gave me a fantastic impression of the Club. He has well defined ideas in mind, and I am sure we will get on well and create a good relationship to train well and try to win together.”
Pirlo has spent his entire professional career in Italy and is renowned for his incredible passing range and set piece ability. In nearly 700 matches at club level he has won two Champions League titles, and has won the Italian title six times.
He has 115 caps for Italy and was part of the 2006 World Cup winning squad.
Speaking to NYCFC.com, Kreis said:
“We have said from the outset that the right player for the third DP slot was worth waiting for. Nobody could question that in Pirlo we are bringing one of the best in the world and one of the finest players to come to MLS. Like David Villa, his final game in Europe was the Champions League Final, which demonstrates a player competing at the highest level of our sport.”
“We are getting a player with a competitive spirit and a winning mentality. He’s not only won a World Cup, he was the Serie A Player of the Year in three of the last four seasons.”
Those words were echoed by New York City FC Sporting Director Claudio Reyna, who added:
“In Andrea Pirlo we are getting one of the most recognized and influential players in world soccer. We are building something incredibly special in New York; with a blend of exciting and experienced players who are known all over the world and with some fantastic young talent, who will only benefit from being around individuals like Andrea, David Villa and Frank Lampard. The greatest privilege of all will be to watch this team play in front of our incredible fans at Yankee Stadium.”
Pirlo will be officially added to New York City FC roster upon receipt of his P1 visa and ITC.[/article]
Enes Unal - Manchester City (reportedly €3 million plus 10% sell-on clause)
[article]Manchester City have signed 18-year-old Turkish striker Enes Unal from Bursaspor for an undisclosed fee.
Unal, who has played once for Turkey, scored four times in 37 games as Bursa finished sixth in the Super Lig last season.
He made his full international debut against Luxembourg in March, having previously scored 24 goals in 25 games for Turkey Under-16s.
In 2013, at 16, he became the youngest goalscorer in the Turkish top flight.[/article]
[article]Manchester City have signed 18-year-old Turkish striker Enes Unal from Bursaspor for an undisclosed fee.
Unal, who has played once for Turkey, scored four times in 37 games as Bursa finished sixth in the Super Lig last season.
He made his full international debut against Luxembourg in March, having previously scored 24 goals in 25 games for Turkey Under-16s.
In 2013, at 16, he became the youngest goalscorer in the Turkish top flight.[/article]
Enes Unal - Manchester City (reportedly €3 million plus 10% sell-on clause)
He goes class on Footy Manager
Arda Turan - Barcelona (€34 million plus potential add ons up to €7 million)
[article=http://www.fcbarcelona.com/football/first-team/detail/article/agreement-with-atletico-madrid-for-the-signing-of-arda-turan]FC Barcelona and Atlético Madrid have reached an agreement for the transfer of the player Arda Turan. FC Barcelona reserve the right to re-sell the player to Atlético until 20 July.
The Managing Board of the Club were made aware last week of the request from coach Luis Enrique and from the favourable report from the Technical Committee that Arda Turan be brought in to form part of the FC Barcelona squad. The Committee has analysed the operation, stating that after negotiations that began months ago, there is an agreement for the signing of the midfielder with Atlético Madrid and with the player himself. Once the reports were studied, the Committee has given the go ahead to the operation.
Given that the operation is taking place during the electoral process, the Managing Committee understands that given their powers, as established in the Club’s statutes, are “limited to the necessary and vital activities that allow the club to function normally and protect its interests”, it is crucial for the operation to be structured in such a way that the Club can successfully sign the player requested by the coach and by the Technical Committee whilst at the same time allowing the next Board of Directors to ratify the operation.
With the intention of safeguarding the Club’s interests and respecting the final decision of the President elect and given the necessity of finalising the operation as soon as possible in order not to miss out on signing the player, FC Barcelona have reached an agreement with Atlético Madrid for the signing of Arda Turan for the next five seasons for the figure of €34m with a possible €7m in variables.
The agreement includes the option of selling the player to Atlético Madrid for the fixed fee less 10% option costs. This option could be exercised by FC Barcelona up until midnight of 20 July if the next Board of Directors should wish so.
This agreement has been ratified unanimously by the Managing Committee.
The Managing Committee understands that the structure of this operation protects the interests of FC Barcelona and will respect the decision of the president that is elected by the members on 18 July.[/article]
[article=http://www.fcbarcelona.com/football/first-team/detail/article/agreement-with-atletico-madrid-for-the-signing-of-arda-turan]FC Barcelona and Atlético Madrid have reached an agreement for the transfer of the player Arda Turan. FC Barcelona reserve the right to re-sell the player to Atlético until 20 July.
The Managing Board of the Club were made aware last week of the request from coach Luis Enrique and from the favourable report from the Technical Committee that Arda Turan be brought in to form part of the FC Barcelona squad. The Committee has analysed the operation, stating that after negotiations that began months ago, there is an agreement for the signing of the midfielder with Atlético Madrid and with the player himself. Once the reports were studied, the Committee has given the go ahead to the operation.
Given that the operation is taking place during the electoral process, the Managing Committee understands that given their powers, as established in the Club’s statutes, are “limited to the necessary and vital activities that allow the club to function normally and protect its interests”, it is crucial for the operation to be structured in such a way that the Club can successfully sign the player requested by the coach and by the Technical Committee whilst at the same time allowing the next Board of Directors to ratify the operation.
With the intention of safeguarding the Club’s interests and respecting the final decision of the President elect and given the necessity of finalising the operation as soon as possible in order not to miss out on signing the player, FC Barcelona have reached an agreement with Atlético Madrid for the signing of Arda Turan for the next five seasons for the figure of €34m with a possible €7m in variables.
The agreement includes the option of selling the player to Atlético Madrid for the fixed fee less 10% option costs. This option could be exercised by FC Barcelona up until midnight of 20 July if the next Board of Directors should wish so.
This agreement has been ratified unanimously by the Managing Committee.
The Managing Committee understands that the structure of this operation protects the interests of FC Barcelona and will respect the decision of the president that is elected by the members on 18 July.[/article]
Greg Halford - Rotherham United (free transfer)
[article=http://www.themillers.co.uk/news/article/rotherham-united-greg-halford-2528886.aspx#I5tSPPbmjrrdI6fp.99]Rotherham United have made it a magnificent seven close season signings after completing a deal for former Nottingham Forest ace Greg Halford, subject to medical and Football League ratification.
The 30-year-old completed his deal at AESSEAL New York Stadium today, and joins Aidy White, Joe Mattock, Lewis Buxton, Emmanuel Ledesma, Danny Collins and Tom Thorpe in committing his future to the club.
The former Sunderland and Wolves operator is comfortable in a number of positions, and boasts top flight experience with Sunderland and Wolves.
Millers boss Steve Evans insists Halford was a man high on his summer recruitment priority list during the close season and believes his versatility will be an asset to his Rotherham United side.
“The Chairman more than anyone will be aware that when I provided him with a list at the beginning of May of players we were targeting, Greg Halford quite simply was at the top of that list," he told www.themillers.co.uk.
“There are a number of reasons behind that, not only is he a talented footballer, he is a talented footballer in a vast number of positions. He was nothing short of outstanding when he played as a main striker, when he led by example in helping Nottingham Forest to the play-offs when Billy Davies was in charge. Having spoken to Billy he gave Greg a huge endorsement, not only for his ability to play as a striker, but equally playing in central midfield, any full-back position and as many people will identify playing at centre-back.
The 30-year-old is the seventh of the Millers' summer signings and whilst Evans is pleased with the additions so far, he persists that the Millers may add a couple more new faces before the new season.
“Our squad is starting to take shape and I will continue to work diligently and efficiently to land our final targets which again, as my Chairman knows, are the targets we identified as far back as May.
Evans continued to say that Halford will show a number of qualities of the recently departed Kari Arnason, hailing his long throw as something the Millers will look to utilise.
“Returning to speak specifically about Greg. He brings a fantastic aerial presence; he is a good finisher when chances arise, and his presence on the team sheet along will have the opposition guessing of where we intend to play him," he explained.
“One of the reasons we would miss Kari Arnason is for his height and strength, if I am honest Greg has the ability to surpass that. One of the other key reasons that Kari would have been missed was his ability at throw-in situations and once again Greg Halford’s ability surpasses that. This brings another strength to the team.
“Greg has experience of playing in the Premier League with Sunderland and Charlton and has considerable successful with Sheffield United, Wolves and Portsmouth.”
Halford will join up with his new team mates tomorrow for his first pre-season training session with the Millers. [/article]
[article=http://www.themillers.co.uk/news/article/rotherham-united-greg-halford-2528886.aspx#I5tSPPbmjrrdI6fp.99]Rotherham United have made it a magnificent seven close season signings after completing a deal for former Nottingham Forest ace Greg Halford, subject to medical and Football League ratification.
The 30-year-old completed his deal at AESSEAL New York Stadium today, and joins Aidy White, Joe Mattock, Lewis Buxton, Emmanuel Ledesma, Danny Collins and Tom Thorpe in committing his future to the club.
The former Sunderland and Wolves operator is comfortable in a number of positions, and boasts top flight experience with Sunderland and Wolves.
Millers boss Steve Evans insists Halford was a man high on his summer recruitment priority list during the close season and believes his versatility will be an asset to his Rotherham United side.
“The Chairman more than anyone will be aware that when I provided him with a list at the beginning of May of players we were targeting, Greg Halford quite simply was at the top of that list," he told www.themillers.co.uk.
“There are a number of reasons behind that, not only is he a talented footballer, he is a talented footballer in a vast number of positions. He was nothing short of outstanding when he played as a main striker, when he led by example in helping Nottingham Forest to the play-offs when Billy Davies was in charge. Having spoken to Billy he gave Greg a huge endorsement, not only for his ability to play as a striker, but equally playing in central midfield, any full-back position and as many people will identify playing at centre-back.
The 30-year-old is the seventh of the Millers' summer signings and whilst Evans is pleased with the additions so far, he persists that the Millers may add a couple more new faces before the new season.
“Our squad is starting to take shape and I will continue to work diligently and efficiently to land our final targets which again, as my Chairman knows, are the targets we identified as far back as May.
Evans continued to say that Halford will show a number of qualities of the recently departed Kari Arnason, hailing his long throw as something the Millers will look to utilise.
“Returning to speak specifically about Greg. He brings a fantastic aerial presence; he is a good finisher when chances arise, and his presence on the team sheet along will have the opposition guessing of where we intend to play him," he explained.
“One of the reasons we would miss Kari Arnason is for his height and strength, if I am honest Greg has the ability to surpass that. One of the other key reasons that Kari would have been missed was his ability at throw-in situations and once again Greg Halford’s ability surpasses that. This brings another strength to the team.
“Greg has experience of playing in the Premier League with Sunderland and Charlton and has considerable successful with Sheffield United, Wolves and Portsmouth.”
Halford will join up with his new team mates tomorrow for his first pre-season training session with the Millers. [/article]
Niki Maenpaa - Brighton (free transfer)
[article=http://www.seagulls.co.uk/news/article/brighton-hove-albion-sign-finland-international-goalkeeper-2528667.aspx#i6bTOLmxKRZvYTxE.99]Brighton & Hove Albion have completed the signing of Finland international goalkeeper Niki Maenpaa, after the 30-year-old left the Dutch club VVV-Venlo at the end of last season.
Maenpaa was at the American Express Elite Football Performance Centre today for his medical and to complete formalities.
He will remain in Sussex this week to start pre-season training at the training ground. He will then link up with the first-team early next week when they return from Geneva.
Seagulls boss Chris Hughton said, "We are pleased to welcome Niki to the club. It's no secret that I wanted another goalkeeper, alongside David Stockdale and Casper Ankergren, who will compete hard for that solitary first-team slot.
"Like all our other recruits this summer, Niki's got plenty of top-flight experience, including games at international level. Having already played in France and Holland, he is now keen to prove himself in English football."
Maenpaa began his career with French side RC Lens in 2003, featuring in their reserve side, before a move to Dutch second division FC Den Bosch in 2006 - where he made 67 league appearances in three seasons.
He spent two years with top-flight side Willem II, before a move to AZ Alkmaar in 2011, followed by a switch to VVV-Venlo in 2012.
Maenpaa spent three seasons with VVV-Venlo, one in the top division and two in the second division. He won the club's Player of the Season award, and helped the team to a fifth-place finish in 2013/14.
Maenpaa is the current first-choice Finnish national goalkeeper. He has won 24 full caps for his country, plus 13 at under-21, and 5 more at under-19 level.
Hughton had previously stated his intention to bring in another experienced goalkeeper alongside David Stockdale and Casper Ankergren in the summer transfer window.
"Niki's arrival allows us to loan out Christian Walton for regular first-team action, which is a vital next step in his development.
“We know from last season that Christian is very capable, but he now needs more games.
"Christian needs to play regular senior football to get to the stage where he can realistically challenge for the goalkeeper's position in our first-team. I have no doubt he will do that here in the not too distant future." [/article]
[article=http://www.seagulls.co.uk/news/article/brighton-hove-albion-sign-finland-international-goalkeeper-2528667.aspx#i6bTOLmxKRZvYTxE.99]Brighton & Hove Albion have completed the signing of Finland international goalkeeper Niki Maenpaa, after the 30-year-old left the Dutch club VVV-Venlo at the end of last season.
Maenpaa was at the American Express Elite Football Performance Centre today for his medical and to complete formalities.
He will remain in Sussex this week to start pre-season training at the training ground. He will then link up with the first-team early next week when they return from Geneva.
Seagulls boss Chris Hughton said, "We are pleased to welcome Niki to the club. It's no secret that I wanted another goalkeeper, alongside David Stockdale and Casper Ankergren, who will compete hard for that solitary first-team slot.
"Like all our other recruits this summer, Niki's got plenty of top-flight experience, including games at international level. Having already played in France and Holland, he is now keen to prove himself in English football."
Maenpaa began his career with French side RC Lens in 2003, featuring in their reserve side, before a move to Dutch second division FC Den Bosch in 2006 - where he made 67 league appearances in three seasons.
He spent two years with top-flight side Willem II, before a move to AZ Alkmaar in 2011, followed by a switch to VVV-Venlo in 2012.
Maenpaa spent three seasons with VVV-Venlo, one in the top division and two in the second division. He won the club's Player of the Season award, and helped the team to a fifth-place finish in 2013/14.
Maenpaa is the current first-choice Finnish national goalkeeper. He has won 24 full caps for his country, plus 13 at under-21, and 5 more at under-19 level.
Hughton had previously stated his intention to bring in another experienced goalkeeper alongside David Stockdale and Casper Ankergren in the summer transfer window.
"Niki's arrival allows us to loan out Christian Walton for regular first-team action, which is a vital next step in his development.
“We know from last season that Christian is very capable, but he now needs more games.
"Christian needs to play regular senior football to get to the stage where he can realistically challenge for the goalkeeper's position in our first-team. I have no doubt he will do that here in the not too distant future." [/article]
Alex Baptiste - Middlesbrough (undisclosed fee)
[article=http://www.mfc.co.uk/news/article/2014/middlesbrough-fc-boro-alex-baptiste-bolton-wanderers-transfer-2528438.aspx#HsZCCrpT0XDMGz3w.99]A deal has been agreed to make former Premier League defender Alex Baptiste the club’s first signing of the summer.
The 29-year-old trained with Aitor Karanka's squad for the first time on Monday afternoon before completing the formalities of a deal that will see him sign a three-year contract with the club.
Baptiste has clocked up over 300 career appearances, having progressed through the ranks at Mansfield Town before joining Blackpool in the summer of 2008.
The defender played a key role in the Seasiders rise to the Premier League – he made 21 appearances for the club in the top-flight - before joining Bolton in 2013.
Baptiste spent much of last season on loan at Blackburn Rovers, where he figured 34 times, and the Ewood Park club were reportedly keen to make his move permanent during the summer.
Baptiste is a versatile defender who can play anywhere in the back four. [/article]
[article=http://www.mfc.co.uk/news/article/2014/middlesbrough-fc-boro-alex-baptiste-bolton-wanderers-transfer-2528438.aspx#HsZCCrpT0XDMGz3w.99]A deal has been agreed to make former Premier League defender Alex Baptiste the club’s first signing of the summer.
The 29-year-old trained with Aitor Karanka's squad for the first time on Monday afternoon before completing the formalities of a deal that will see him sign a three-year contract with the club.
Baptiste has clocked up over 300 career appearances, having progressed through the ranks at Mansfield Town before joining Blackpool in the summer of 2008.
The defender played a key role in the Seasiders rise to the Premier League – he made 21 appearances for the club in the top-flight - before joining Bolton in 2013.
Baptiste spent much of last season on loan at Blackburn Rovers, where he figured 34 times, and the Ewood Park club were reportedly keen to make his move permanent during the summer.
Baptiste is a versatile defender who can play anywhere in the back four. [/article]
Kyle De Silva - Notts County (free transfer)
[article=http://www.nottscountyfc.co.uk/news/article/notts-county-magpies-kyle-da-silva-crystal-palace-2528335.aspx#q6p6oFqS7AVv5ZhS.99]Notts County have signed another exciting player ahead of the 2015.16 season…
The former Crystal Palace attacking midfielder has agreed a two-year deal with the Magpies after his contract ended this summer.
The 21-year-old graduated from Palace’s Academy and is well known for his pace and trickery on the ball.
In 2010 he signed his professional deal and made his debut against Derby County in the FA Cup two years later. He went onto make seven appearances during his four year spell.
He also gained experience at Barnet on loan where he played three times in 2013.
The attack minded player will bring plenty of flair to the club’s ranks.[/article]
Adam Campbell - Notts County (free transfer)
[article=http://www.nottscountyfc.co.uk/news/article/adam-campbell-notts-county-newcastle-united-2528332.aspx#dejljgMkIGBvkTFK.99]The Magpies have agreed terms with former Newcastle United striker Adam Campbell on a two-year deal…
The 20-year-old, who can also play on the wing, has been on trial with the club the past week and has impressed in training to earn himself a deal.
The 5’7 winger arrived at United in 2012 and played three times in a three year spell, including his first competitive debut against Atromitos in the UEFA Europa League to become the club’s youngest player to play in European a competition.
Campbell also played against Stoke City in the Premier League and helped Papiss Cisse score the winner in 2013.
The quick and tricky wideman has also represented his country for the Under 16s, 17s and 19s.
He also gained experience out on loan at Carlisle United, Fleetwood and Hartlepool United.
His last spell away from St James’ Park was earlier this year at Gateshead where he scored three times in eight matches.[/article]
[article=http://www.nottscountyfc.co.uk/news/article/notts-county-magpies-kyle-da-silva-crystal-palace-2528335.aspx#q6p6oFqS7AVv5ZhS.99]Notts County have signed another exciting player ahead of the 2015.16 season…
The former Crystal Palace attacking midfielder has agreed a two-year deal with the Magpies after his contract ended this summer.
The 21-year-old graduated from Palace’s Academy and is well known for his pace and trickery on the ball.
In 2010 he signed his professional deal and made his debut against Derby County in the FA Cup two years later. He went onto make seven appearances during his four year spell.
He also gained experience at Barnet on loan where he played three times in 2013.
The attack minded player will bring plenty of flair to the club’s ranks.[/article]
Adam Campbell - Notts County (free transfer)
[article=http://www.nottscountyfc.co.uk/news/article/adam-campbell-notts-county-newcastle-united-2528332.aspx#dejljgMkIGBvkTFK.99]The Magpies have agreed terms with former Newcastle United striker Adam Campbell on a two-year deal…
The 20-year-old, who can also play on the wing, has been on trial with the club the past week and has impressed in training to earn himself a deal.
The 5’7 winger arrived at United in 2012 and played three times in a three year spell, including his first competitive debut against Atromitos in the UEFA Europa League to become the club’s youngest player to play in European a competition.
Campbell also played against Stoke City in the Premier League and helped Papiss Cisse score the winner in 2013.
The quick and tricky wideman has also represented his country for the Under 16s, 17s and 19s.
He also gained experience out on loan at Carlisle United, Fleetwood and Hartlepool United.
His last spell away from St James’ Park was earlier this year at Gateshead where he scored three times in eight matches.[/article]
Chechu Dorado - Rayo Vallecano (free transfer)
[article]Rayo Vallecano have announced the signing of former Villarreal centre-back Chechu Dorado, who will join Paco Jemez’s side for the next two seasons.
Following the expiration of his contract this past 30 June, Dorado ended his two year spell with the Yellow Submarine and reached a two-year agreement with Rayo Vallecano, as the club announced on a very busy Monday.
Dorado becomes the second signing for Rayo Vallecano this summer, joining former Dijon defensive midfielder Ousseynou Cisse, who was announced by the club several days ago.
Rayo Vallecano also announced the contract renewal of former youth product, 26-year-old left-back Nacho Martinez, who will remain with the club for two more seasons.
Dorado and Cisse are joined by Johan Mojica, Lass Bangoura and Diego Aguirre, who are all returning from their respective loan spells and coming to reinforce the squad as they try to defy the odds yet again this season and remain in the Primera Division on a shoe-string budget.[/article]
[article]Rayo Vallecano have announced the signing of former Villarreal centre-back Chechu Dorado, who will join Paco Jemez’s side for the next two seasons.
Following the expiration of his contract this past 30 June, Dorado ended his two year spell with the Yellow Submarine and reached a two-year agreement with Rayo Vallecano, as the club announced on a very busy Monday.
Dorado becomes the second signing for Rayo Vallecano this summer, joining former Dijon defensive midfielder Ousseynou Cisse, who was announced by the club several days ago.
Rayo Vallecano also announced the contract renewal of former youth product, 26-year-old left-back Nacho Martinez, who will remain with the club for two more seasons.
Dorado and Cisse are joined by Johan Mojica, Lass Bangoura and Diego Aguirre, who are all returning from their respective loan spells and coming to reinforce the squad as they try to defy the odds yet again this season and remain in the Primera Division on a shoe-string budget.[/article]
Derik Osede - Bolton (free transfer)
[article=http://www.bwfc.co.uk/news/article/bolton-wanderers-sign-real-madrid-defender-derik-osede-2529805.aspx#BxBEO1mdVzrFqeKO.99]Bolton Wanderers have completed the permanent signing of defender Derik Osede from Real Madrid.
The 22-year-old has signed a three-year deal after his contract with the La Liga outfit expired.
Derik met his team-mates for the first time as the first team squad flew to Austria on Sunday afternoon and took part in his first training session as a Bolton player on Monday.
Madrid-born Derik has represented the Spanish national team at every level between U16 and U21 and was a mainstay in the Real Madrid Castilla team for the previous two seasons.
He was part of the Spanish U19 side that won the 2012 UEFA European Championship crown in Estonia, forming part of a squad alongside the likes of Gerard Deulofeu and Paco Alcacer.
The deal is subject to international clearance.[/article]
[article=http://www.bwfc.co.uk/news/article/bolton-wanderers-sign-real-madrid-defender-derik-osede-2529805.aspx#BxBEO1mdVzrFqeKO.99]Bolton Wanderers have completed the permanent signing of defender Derik Osede from Real Madrid.
The 22-year-old has signed a three-year deal after his contract with the La Liga outfit expired.
Derik met his team-mates for the first time as the first team squad flew to Austria on Sunday afternoon and took part in his first training session as a Bolton player on Monday.
Madrid-born Derik has represented the Spanish national team at every level between U16 and U21 and was a mainstay in the Real Madrid Castilla team for the previous two seasons.
He was part of the Spanish U19 side that won the 2012 UEFA European Championship crown in Estonia, forming part of a squad alongside the likes of Gerard Deulofeu and Paco Alcacer.
The deal is subject to international clearance.[/article]
Cuco Martina - Southampton (reportedly €1.5 million)
[article=http://www.saintsfc.co.uk/news/article/20150707-announcement-cuco-martina-southampton-fc-twente-2530308.aspx]Southampton Football Club is delighted to announce the signing of versatile defender Cuco Martina from FC Twente.
The Curaçao international has agreed a two-year deal and links up with the squad in time for this week’s training camp in Austria.
Martina, 25, was born in Rotterdam and previously played for Erwin Koeman, Saints’ current assistant manager, during a two-year spell at RKC Waalwijk.
Executive Director of Football Les Reed commented: “Cuco is a versatile and experienced defender who will add strength and depth to our squad ahead of the coming season.
“Injuries to Ryan Bertrand and Bevis Mugabi highlighted the need to bring in another defender, and Cuco is the perfect solution.
“He is another hungry player who is excited about coming to our club, and will provide healthy competition for places in our defence.”
Martina added: “I’m very happy to be here at a big club like Southampton. I’ve followed Southampton now for two years and I see they are now a big club.
“I know Ronald Koeman and Erwin Koeman – I worked with Erwin for one year and everything was good. He knows my qualities and I know what he wants.
“It was a dream for me to play in the Premier League and finally I can play now. I hope to play many games and show the fans who I am.”[/article]
[article=http://www.saintsfc.co.uk/news/article/20150707-announcement-cuco-martina-southampton-fc-twente-2530308.aspx]Southampton Football Club is delighted to announce the signing of versatile defender Cuco Martina from FC Twente.
The Curaçao international has agreed a two-year deal and links up with the squad in time for this week’s training camp in Austria.
Martina, 25, was born in Rotterdam and previously played for Erwin Koeman, Saints’ current assistant manager, during a two-year spell at RKC Waalwijk.
Executive Director of Football Les Reed commented: “Cuco is a versatile and experienced defender who will add strength and depth to our squad ahead of the coming season.
“Injuries to Ryan Bertrand and Bevis Mugabi highlighted the need to bring in another defender, and Cuco is the perfect solution.
“He is another hungry player who is excited about coming to our club, and will provide healthy competition for places in our defence.”
Martina added: “I’m very happy to be here at a big club like Southampton. I’ve followed Southampton now for two years and I see they are now a big club.
“I know Ronald Koeman and Erwin Koeman – I worked with Erwin for one year and everything was good. He knows my qualities and I know what he wants.
“It was a dream for me to play in the Premier League and finally I can play now. I hope to play many games and show the fans who I am.”[/article]
Zoumana Camara - PSG (Coach)
(left)
[article=http://www.ligue1.com/ligue1/article/camara-joins-psg-coaching-staff.htm]Recently retired Paris Saint-Germain defender Zoumana Camara has signed on as part of coach Laurent Blanc's coaching staff, taking part in his first session as training resumed on Monday.
Although there were several faces missing as Paris Saint-Germain began their pre-season preparations on Monday - many of the capital club's internationals are still on holidays - Zoumana Camara was not one of them, despite having hung up his boots at the end of last season.
After signing for Paris Saint-Germain in 2007, the former Saint-Etienne, Marseille, Lens and Bastia stopper became an important senior figure in the PSG dressing room - despite having made just 20 Ligue 1 appearances over the last three seasons - and it was little surprise that Camara and the club found a way to keep him on after the end of his playing career.
Camara's role is to serve as a liaison between the players and the coaching staff, in much the same way that France legend Claude Makélélé did after he ended his playing career with Paris Saint-Germain and before he moved on to Bastia to try his hand as a senior coach.[/article]
(left)
[article=http://www.ligue1.com/ligue1/article/camara-joins-psg-coaching-staff.htm]Recently retired Paris Saint-Germain defender Zoumana Camara has signed on as part of coach Laurent Blanc's coaching staff, taking part in his first session as training resumed on Monday.
Although there were several faces missing as Paris Saint-Germain began their pre-season preparations on Monday - many of the capital club's internationals are still on holidays - Zoumana Camara was not one of them, despite having hung up his boots at the end of last season.
After signing for Paris Saint-Germain in 2007, the former Saint-Etienne, Marseille, Lens and Bastia stopper became an important senior figure in the PSG dressing room - despite having made just 20 Ligue 1 appearances over the last three seasons - and it was little surprise that Camara and the club found a way to keep him on after the end of his playing career.
Camara's role is to serve as a liaison between the players and the coaching staff, in much the same way that France legend Claude Makélélé did after he ended his playing career with Paris Saint-Germain and before he moved on to Bastia to try his hand as a senior coach.[/article]
Jamie O'Hara - Fulham (free transfer)
[article=http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2015/july/07/ohara-signs]The Club is delighted to confirm the free transfer signing of Jamie O’Hara on a one-year deal.
The left-footed midfielder arrives in London following the expiry of his short-term deal with Blackpool, where he made 28 appearances last season and was voted Player of the Year by Seasiders fans.
A product of Tottenham Hotspur’s academy, O’Hara made more than 50 appearances for Spurs and scored seven goals, while he also took in loan spells at Chesterfield, Millwall, Portsmouth – during which he was named Player of the Season – and Wolverhampton Wanderers.
In the summer of 2011, his move to Wolves was made permanent in a multimillion pound deal, and he remained at Molineux for three years.
The 28-year-old becomes Fulham’s fifth summer signing, following the arrivals of Ben Pringle, Andy Lonergan, Tom Cairney and Jazz Richards.
Speaking from Fulham’s training camp in Portugal, O’Hara said: “I’m absolutely delighted. I’ve had a couple of weeks training with the team and I really felt I wanted to get to this Club. I’ve loved it, I’ve worked hard and now it’s paid off. I have to thank the Manager for giving me the opportunity.”[/article]
[article=http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2015/july/07/ohara-signs]The Club is delighted to confirm the free transfer signing of Jamie O’Hara on a one-year deal.
The left-footed midfielder arrives in London following the expiry of his short-term deal with Blackpool, where he made 28 appearances last season and was voted Player of the Year by Seasiders fans.
A product of Tottenham Hotspur’s academy, O’Hara made more than 50 appearances for Spurs and scored seven goals, while he also took in loan spells at Chesterfield, Millwall, Portsmouth – during which he was named Player of the Season – and Wolverhampton Wanderers.
In the summer of 2011, his move to Wolves was made permanent in a multimillion pound deal, and he remained at Molineux for three years.
The 28-year-old becomes Fulham’s fifth summer signing, following the arrivals of Ben Pringle, Andy Lonergan, Tom Cairney and Jazz Richards.
Speaking from Fulham’s training camp in Portugal, O’Hara said: “I’m absolutely delighted. I’ve had a couple of weeks training with the team and I really felt I wanted to get to this Club. I’ve loved it, I’ve worked hard and now it’s paid off. I have to thank the Manager for giving me the opportunity.”[/article]
Simone Zaza - Juventus(€18 million)
[article]Juventus have officially bought Simone Zaza from Sassuolo in a permanent transfer worth €18m.
The Bianconeri had an option on the forward and the clubs reached a deal today.
They both released statements concurrently, although only Juve made clear the details.
Juventus will pay €18m in instalments spread over three years.
The player has signed a five-year contract.
Zaza just turned 24 and is an Italy international who scored 20 Serie A goals in two seasons.
He made history by becoming the first Sassuolo player to wear the Italy shirt.[/article]
[article]Juventus have officially bought Simone Zaza from Sassuolo in a permanent transfer worth €18m.
The Bianconeri had an option on the forward and the clubs reached a deal today.
They both released statements concurrently, although only Juve made clear the details.
Juventus will pay €18m in instalments spread over three years.
The player has signed a five-year contract.
Zaza just turned 24 and is an Italy international who scored 20 Serie A goals in two seasons.
He made history by becoming the first Sassuolo player to wear the Italy shirt.[/article]
Sammy Ameobi - Cardiff (loan)
[article=http://www.cardiffcityfc.co.uk/news/article/loan-signing-sammy-ameobi-2531548.aspx#SE6CTGrQ6mkWkuJg.99]Cardiff City Football Club is delighted to confirm the loan signing of Sammy Ameobi, from Newcastle United.
The 23 year-old former England U21 international has made 54 Barclays Premier League appearances for the Magpies to date, scoring against Tottenham Hotspur and Hull City last season.
Sammy will link up with the rest of the City squad at their pre-season training camp immediately, having signed a season long agreement on Tuesday that runs until 30th June, 2016.
Speaking exclusively to cardiffcityfc.co.uk, Cardiff City CEO Ken Choo said: "We're delighted to have Sammy on board, having hand-picked him specifically for his creativity and skill.
"Sammy has Barclays Premier League experience to the tune of more than 50 top-flight appearances. We will continue to search for the right players who have specific skill sets and good character."[/article]
Jelle Vossen - Burnley (reportedly €3.5 million)
[article=http://www.burnleyfootballclub.com/news/article/vossen-completes-clarets-move-2531919.aspx#x4T2bfEvOCBtEoVA.99]Burnley Football Club have today completed the signing of striker Jelle Vossen from Belgian Pro League side Koninklijke Racing Club Genk, subject to Football Assocation and Football League approval and international clearance.
The 26-year-old has put pen-to-paper on a three year deal after an undisclosed fee was previously agreed between the two clubs.
The Belgian international has spent his entire career with Genk and boasts a prolific goalscoring record that saw him net 105 times in 244 appearances during his time at the Cristal Arena.
In 2009, the striker spent a season on loan at Cercle Brugge in a move that saw Thomas Buffel move in the opposite direction, and scored eight goals in 21 appearances.
Nicknamed ‘The Magician’, Vossen is a league and cup winner from his time in his homeland and boasts sizeable international pedigree.
He has played in every level of the Belgium side since Under 15 and has now appeared 12 times for the senior international side, scoring twice, after making his debut in 2009.
In September 2014, Vossen joined Sky Bet Championship side Middlesbrough on a season-long loan and scored nine times in 40 appearances.
That included a stunning first-half hat-trick away at Millwall in December, and the Bilzen-born Belgian also netted to help Boro to a 1-2 first-leg victory over Brentford as they reached the Play-Off final.
When he concludes the deal, Vossen will become the first ever Belgian to pull on the Burnley shirt in a competitive game. The only other Belgian player to play for the Clarets was Dimitri De Conde, the current technical director at Genk, who played as a trialist in the Isle of Man tournament prior to the 2001/2002 season.[/article]
Ryad Boudebouz - Montpellier (reportedly €1.7 million)
[article]Montpellier have completed the signing of winger Ryad Boudebouz from Ligue 1 rivals Bastia.
The 25-year-old has signed a four-year deal and began training with his new teammates on Tuesday, La Paillade said on their official website.
Boudebouz, who has 17 caps for Algeria, brings plenty of top-flight experience to Montpellier, having made a combined 230 appearances in the league with first club Sochaux and Bastia after his move in the summer of 2013.[/article]
Bryan Ruiz - Sporting Lisbon (reportedly €2 million)
[article]Sporting Lisbon have signed Costa Rica forward Bryan Ruiz from Fulham on a three-year contract that includes a £43m buyout clause.
Ruiz, who joined the Cottagers for £10.6m from FC Twente in 2011, scored 13 times in 106 games for Fulham.
The London club took up an option in May to extend the 29-year-old's contract for another year, which allowed them to receive a fee for him.
Ruiz played 32 times for the Championship club last season.
Sporting finished third in the Primeira Liga last season and revealed on their website they had included the 60m euro buyout clause in Ruiz's deal.
Ruiz saw a loan move to La Liga side Levante fall through earlier this year.[/article]
[article=http://www.cardiffcityfc.co.uk/news/article/loan-signing-sammy-ameobi-2531548.aspx#SE6CTGrQ6mkWkuJg.99]Cardiff City Football Club is delighted to confirm the loan signing of Sammy Ameobi, from Newcastle United.
The 23 year-old former England U21 international has made 54 Barclays Premier League appearances for the Magpies to date, scoring against Tottenham Hotspur and Hull City last season.
Sammy will link up with the rest of the City squad at their pre-season training camp immediately, having signed a season long agreement on Tuesday that runs until 30th June, 2016.
Speaking exclusively to cardiffcityfc.co.uk, Cardiff City CEO Ken Choo said: "We're delighted to have Sammy on board, having hand-picked him specifically for his creativity and skill.
"Sammy has Barclays Premier League experience to the tune of more than 50 top-flight appearances. We will continue to search for the right players who have specific skill sets and good character."[/article]
Jelle Vossen - Burnley (reportedly €3.5 million)
[article=http://www.burnleyfootballclub.com/news/article/vossen-completes-clarets-move-2531919.aspx#x4T2bfEvOCBtEoVA.99]Burnley Football Club have today completed the signing of striker Jelle Vossen from Belgian Pro League side Koninklijke Racing Club Genk, subject to Football Assocation and Football League approval and international clearance.
The 26-year-old has put pen-to-paper on a three year deal after an undisclosed fee was previously agreed between the two clubs.
The Belgian international has spent his entire career with Genk and boasts a prolific goalscoring record that saw him net 105 times in 244 appearances during his time at the Cristal Arena.
In 2009, the striker spent a season on loan at Cercle Brugge in a move that saw Thomas Buffel move in the opposite direction, and scored eight goals in 21 appearances.
Nicknamed ‘The Magician’, Vossen is a league and cup winner from his time in his homeland and boasts sizeable international pedigree.
He has played in every level of the Belgium side since Under 15 and has now appeared 12 times for the senior international side, scoring twice, after making his debut in 2009.
In September 2014, Vossen joined Sky Bet Championship side Middlesbrough on a season-long loan and scored nine times in 40 appearances.
That included a stunning first-half hat-trick away at Millwall in December, and the Bilzen-born Belgian also netted to help Boro to a 1-2 first-leg victory over Brentford as they reached the Play-Off final.
When he concludes the deal, Vossen will become the first ever Belgian to pull on the Burnley shirt in a competitive game. The only other Belgian player to play for the Clarets was Dimitri De Conde, the current technical director at Genk, who played as a trialist in the Isle of Man tournament prior to the 2001/2002 season.[/article]
Ryad Boudebouz - Montpellier (reportedly €1.7 million)
[article]Montpellier have completed the signing of winger Ryad Boudebouz from Ligue 1 rivals Bastia.
The 25-year-old has signed a four-year deal and began training with his new teammates on Tuesday, La Paillade said on their official website.
Boudebouz, who has 17 caps for Algeria, brings plenty of top-flight experience to Montpellier, having made a combined 230 appearances in the league with first club Sochaux and Bastia after his move in the summer of 2013.[/article]
Bryan Ruiz - Sporting Lisbon (reportedly €2 million)
[article]Sporting Lisbon have signed Costa Rica forward Bryan Ruiz from Fulham on a three-year contract that includes a £43m buyout clause.
Ruiz, who joined the Cottagers for £10.6m from FC Twente in 2011, scored 13 times in 106 games for Fulham.
The London club took up an option in May to extend the 29-year-old's contract for another year, which allowed them to receive a fee for him.
Ruiz played 32 times for the Championship club last season.
Sporting finished third in the Primeira Liga last season and revealed on their website they had included the 60m euro buyout clause in Ruiz's deal.
Ruiz saw a loan move to La Liga side Levante fall through earlier this year.[/article]
Luciano Vietto - Atletico Madrid (reportedly €20 million)
[article=http://en.clubatleticodemadrid.com/noticias/vietto-is-now-an-atletico]Atlético de Madrid and Villarreal have reached an agreement for the transfer of Luciano Vietto to our entity. It is expected that the transfer of the Argentinian forward will be formalised this Wednesday, that the striker trains with his new teammates in the first session of the pre-season, and to subsequently sign his new contract, which will link him to our Club for the next 6 seasons.
The striker was born in Balnearia, Córdoba (Argentina) on the 5th of December of 1993 and his first football steps were taken at Estudiantes de La Plata, which he left in 2010 to join the ranks of Racing Club. He would make his debut in the First Division with the shirt of 'La Academia' at age 17 in a match against Lanús. Interestingly, the mentioned debut in the Argentinian football elite occurred under the orders of Diego Pablo Simeone, coach of Racing at that time. In the season of 2012/13, already settled in Racing’s first team, he scored 13 goals, five in the Initial Tournament and 8 in the Final Tournament, and in the 2013/14 season, he scored 5 goals, two of them in the first stage of the Championship and three in the second.
Last season he left Argentinian football to make the leap to Europe, ending up in Villarreal. Vietto completed an outstanding season in his European debut, scoring 20 goals between the League (12) and UEFA Europe League (8) in his first season away from his native country. And as a matter of fact, in the European competition, he won the distinction of maximum assistant thanks to his 6 assists.[/article]
[article=http://en.clubatleticodemadrid.com/noticias/vietto-is-now-an-atletico]Atlético de Madrid and Villarreal have reached an agreement for the transfer of Luciano Vietto to our entity. It is expected that the transfer of the Argentinian forward will be formalised this Wednesday, that the striker trains with his new teammates in the first session of the pre-season, and to subsequently sign his new contract, which will link him to our Club for the next 6 seasons.
The striker was born in Balnearia, Córdoba (Argentina) on the 5th of December of 1993 and his first football steps were taken at Estudiantes de La Plata, which he left in 2010 to join the ranks of Racing Club. He would make his debut in the First Division with the shirt of 'La Academia' at age 17 in a match against Lanús. Interestingly, the mentioned debut in the Argentinian football elite occurred under the orders of Diego Pablo Simeone, coach of Racing at that time. In the season of 2012/13, already settled in Racing’s first team, he scored 13 goals, five in the Initial Tournament and 8 in the Final Tournament, and in the 2013/14 season, he scored 5 goals, two of them in the first stage of the Championship and three in the second.
Last season he left Argentinian football to make the leap to Europe, ending up in Villarreal. Vietto completed an outstanding season in his European debut, scoring 20 goals between the League (12) and UEFA Europe League (8) in his first season away from his native country. And as a matter of fact, in the European competition, he won the distinction of maximum assistant thanks to his 6 assists.[/article]
Jo - Al Shabab (reportedly €3 million)
[article=http://sport360.com/article/transfer-news/38871/360transfers-al-shabab-announce-signing-brazil-world-cup-forward-jo]Al Shabab have rounded out their foreign-player quota with the addition of former Manchester City and Brazil centre forward Jo on a three-year deal.
The Hawks announced the arrival of the controversial 28-year-old on their Twitter account, filling the one spot opened up by their desire to dispense with misfiring front man Edgar Bruno.
The move ends a sorry recent spell at Atletico Mineiro for Jo, who went more than a year without scoring a goal prior to May’s Campeonato Mineiro final against Caldense and fell out with club management thanks to a series of disciplinary issues.
He does boast international pedigree, however, making three appearances on home soil at the 2014 World Cup. In total, he has scored five goals in 20 Canarinho matches.
Jo will slot in alongside the retained non-Emirati trio of forward Henrique Luvannor, playmaker Carlos Villanueva and central midfielder Azizbek Haydarov who performed so adeptly during the club’s run to third place in the Arabian Gulf League.
Shabab hope their new signing will provide the quality and composure which went missing under Edgar in 2014/15, ahead of a campaign which sees entry into the preliminary rounds of the AFC Champions League.
Edgar dropped to only eight goals in 25 top-flight matches last term, after registering tallies of 14 in 23 during 2012/13 and 15 in 22 during 2013/14. His previous form and continuing ability to play as a target man – eight assists were registered last season – has seen interest lodged in him by Chinese Super League and South Korean K-League outfits.
Replacement Jo has enjoyed a mixed career. He made his name at Corinthians and CSKA Moscow, prior to a £19 million (Dh109m) move to City in 2008 which brought just one Premier League goal in 21 appearances. Two loan spells at Everton and one at Galatasaray were carried out until he was granted a permanent exit to Internacional in 2011.
The tall striker failed to inspire initially back in his homeland, a burst of form following a 2012 move to Mineiro seeing him back in the Brazil fold. Jo exits Galo with 17 goals in 69 appearances.
Meanwhile, one Brazil star unlikely to be making the switch to the AGL is Robinho after Guanghzhou Evergrande intensified their pursuit of him.
Robinho, 31, was offered a two-year contract with wages of $4.5m per year by Bani Yas. But the forward, who is a free agent after failing to agree a permanent move to Santos following the early termination of his AC Milan deal, is now expected to reunite with former Canarinho head coach Luiz Felipe Scolari in China on reported wages of €12m (Dh48.8m) per year.[/article]
[article=http://sport360.com/article/transfer-news/38871/360transfers-al-shabab-announce-signing-brazil-world-cup-forward-jo]Al Shabab have rounded out their foreign-player quota with the addition of former Manchester City and Brazil centre forward Jo on a three-year deal.
The Hawks announced the arrival of the controversial 28-year-old on their Twitter account, filling the one spot opened up by their desire to dispense with misfiring front man Edgar Bruno.
The move ends a sorry recent spell at Atletico Mineiro for Jo, who went more than a year without scoring a goal prior to May’s Campeonato Mineiro final against Caldense and fell out with club management thanks to a series of disciplinary issues.
He does boast international pedigree, however, making three appearances on home soil at the 2014 World Cup. In total, he has scored five goals in 20 Canarinho matches.
Jo will slot in alongside the retained non-Emirati trio of forward Henrique Luvannor, playmaker Carlos Villanueva and central midfielder Azizbek Haydarov who performed so adeptly during the club’s run to third place in the Arabian Gulf League.
Shabab hope their new signing will provide the quality and composure which went missing under Edgar in 2014/15, ahead of a campaign which sees entry into the preliminary rounds of the AFC Champions League.
Edgar dropped to only eight goals in 25 top-flight matches last term, after registering tallies of 14 in 23 during 2012/13 and 15 in 22 during 2013/14. His previous form and continuing ability to play as a target man – eight assists were registered last season – has seen interest lodged in him by Chinese Super League and South Korean K-League outfits.
Replacement Jo has enjoyed a mixed career. He made his name at Corinthians and CSKA Moscow, prior to a £19 million (Dh109m) move to City in 2008 which brought just one Premier League goal in 21 appearances. Two loan spells at Everton and one at Galatasaray were carried out until he was granted a permanent exit to Internacional in 2011.
The tall striker failed to inspire initially back in his homeland, a burst of form following a 2012 move to Mineiro seeing him back in the Brazil fold. Jo exits Galo with 17 goals in 69 appearances.
Meanwhile, one Brazil star unlikely to be making the switch to the AGL is Robinho after Guanghzhou Evergrande intensified their pursuit of him.
Robinho, 31, was offered a two-year contract with wages of $4.5m per year by Bani Yas. But the forward, who is a free agent after failing to agree a permanent move to Santos following the early termination of his AC Milan deal, is now expected to reunite with former Canarinho head coach Luiz Felipe Scolari in China on reported wages of €12m (Dh48.8m) per year.[/article]
[article=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11096/9905271/portos-production-line-jackson-martinez-and-the-big-money-sales]Porto’s list of £10m+ sales since 2004
Paulo Ferreira to Chelsea in 2004 -- £13.2m
Deco to Barcelona in 2004 -- £14.0m
Ricardo Carvalho to Chelsea in 2004 -- £19.8m
Maniche to Dinamo Moscow in 2005 -- £10.9m
Anderson to Man Utd in 2007 -- £20.3m
Pepe to Real Madrid in 2007 -- £20.3m
Jose Bosingwa to Chelsea in 2008 -- £16.3m
Ricardo Quaresma to Inter in 2008 – £15.1m
Aly Cissokho to Lyon in 2009 – £13.0m
Lucho Gonzalez to Marseille in 2009 -- £15.3m
Lisandro Lopez to Lyon in 2009 -- £20.4m
Bruno Alves to Zenit St Petersburg in 2010 -- £18.2m
Radamel Falcao to Atletico Madrid in 2011 -- £34.7m
Hulk to Zenit St Petersburg in 2012 -- £31.7m
Joao Moutinho to Monaco in 2013 -- £21.4m
James Rodriguez to Monaco in 2013 -- £38.4m
Juan Iturbe to Verona in 2014 -- £12.2m
Fernando to Man City in 2014 -- £12.0m
Eliaquim Mangala to Man City in 2014 -- £31.8m
Danilo to Real Madrid in 2015 -- £22.8m
Jackson Martinez to Atletico Madrid in 2015 -- £24.8m[/article]
Paulo Ferreira to Chelsea in 2004 -- £13.2m
Deco to Barcelona in 2004 -- £14.0m
Ricardo Carvalho to Chelsea in 2004 -- £19.8m
Maniche to Dinamo Moscow in 2005 -- £10.9m
Anderson to Man Utd in 2007 -- £20.3m
Pepe to Real Madrid in 2007 -- £20.3m
Jose Bosingwa to Chelsea in 2008 -- £16.3m
Ricardo Quaresma to Inter in 2008 – £15.1m
Aly Cissokho to Lyon in 2009 – £13.0m
Lucho Gonzalez to Marseille in 2009 -- £15.3m
Lisandro Lopez to Lyon in 2009 -- £20.4m
Bruno Alves to Zenit St Petersburg in 2010 -- £18.2m
Radamel Falcao to Atletico Madrid in 2011 -- £34.7m
Hulk to Zenit St Petersburg in 2012 -- £31.7m
Joao Moutinho to Monaco in 2013 -- £21.4m
James Rodriguez to Monaco in 2013 -- £38.4m
Juan Iturbe to Verona in 2014 -- £12.2m
Fernando to Man City in 2014 -- £12.0m
Eliaquim Mangala to Man City in 2014 -- £31.8m
Danilo to Real Madrid in 2015 -- £22.8m
Jackson Martinez to Atletico Madrid in 2015 -- £24.8m[/article]
Kevin Trapp - PSG (reportedly €9 million
[article=http://www.psg.fr/en/News/003001/Article/71579/Kevin-Trapp-signs-a-five-year-contract-for-Paris-Saint-Germain]Paris Saint-Germain is pleased to announce the signing of Kevin Trapp until 2020.
Transferred from Eintracht Frankfurt, the German goalkeeper signed a five-year contract on Wednesday, at the headquarters of the Club. He will be presented to media next Monday* in Paris.
Considered as one of the most talented new players of German football, Kevin Trapp began his professional career with FC Kaiserslautern before joining Eintracht Frankfurt in 2012. He played 114 Bundesliga games.
The rookie is going today to Thaya (Austria), where he will take part to the first preseason camp of Paris Saint-Germain. Today, Kevin Trapp is also celebrating his twenty-fifth birthday.[/article]
[article=http://www.psg.fr/en/News/003001/Article/71579/Kevin-Trapp-signs-a-five-year-contract-for-Paris-Saint-Germain]Paris Saint-Germain is pleased to announce the signing of Kevin Trapp until 2020.
Transferred from Eintracht Frankfurt, the German goalkeeper signed a five-year contract on Wednesday, at the headquarters of the Club. He will be presented to media next Monday* in Paris.
Considered as one of the most talented new players of German football, Kevin Trapp began his professional career with FC Kaiserslautern before joining Eintracht Frankfurt in 2012. He played 114 Bundesliga games.
The rookie is going today to Thaya (Austria), where he will take part to the first preseason camp of Paris Saint-Germain. Today, Kevin Trapp is also celebrating his twenty-fifth birthday.[/article]
Leo Baptistao - Villarreal (loan with option to buy)
[article]Léo Baptistão will spent the new season on loan at Villarreal CF. The coastal club has reached an agreement with Atlético de Madrid for the forward who will begin his third consecutive loan stint. Atlético reserve the right to buy the player back at any point during the one-season loan.
Despite his age, 22 year old Baptistão has gained a great deal of experience in LaLiga with Rayo Vallecano, Atlético de Madrid and Real Betis and has taken part in European competition too. In total, Baptistão has made 87 appearances, scored 17 goals and set up another 12 for his team mates.[/article]
Toby Alderweireld - Tottenham (reportedly £11.5 million)
[article=http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news/alderweireld-deal-agreed-080715/]We are delighted to announce the signing of Toby Alderweireld from Atletico Madrid.
The defender has signed a contract with the Club until 2020.
A Belgium international, Toby came through the ranks at Ajax, making 186 appearances and scoring 15 goals during nine years with the Eredivisie champions, where he lifted three league titles and one Dutch Cup.
He was named Ajax Talent of the Year in 2010, an honour also won by Jan Vertonghen and Christian Eriksen during their times in Amsterdam.
Toby joined Spanish side Atletico in 2013 and was part of the squad that won the La Liga title on the last day of the season as well as reaching the Champions League final in the same year.
He made 22 appearances in all for Diego Simeone's side, scoring twice, before impressing on loan at Southampton last season. He played 28 times for the St Mary’s club in all competitions, scoring once.
Capped by Belgium at every level from Under-15 to Under-21, Toby made his senior international debut in 2009 and appeared at the 2014 World Cup finals in Brazil, joining Nacer Chadli, Mousa Dembele and Jan Vertonghen in the squad.[/article]
[article]Léo Baptistão will spent the new season on loan at Villarreal CF. The coastal club has reached an agreement with Atlético de Madrid for the forward who will begin his third consecutive loan stint. Atlético reserve the right to buy the player back at any point during the one-season loan.
Despite his age, 22 year old Baptistão has gained a great deal of experience in LaLiga with Rayo Vallecano, Atlético de Madrid and Real Betis and has taken part in European competition too. In total, Baptistão has made 87 appearances, scored 17 goals and set up another 12 for his team mates.[/article]
Toby Alderweireld - Tottenham (reportedly £11.5 million)
[article=http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news/alderweireld-deal-agreed-080715/]We are delighted to announce the signing of Toby Alderweireld from Atletico Madrid.
The defender has signed a contract with the Club until 2020.
A Belgium international, Toby came through the ranks at Ajax, making 186 appearances and scoring 15 goals during nine years with the Eredivisie champions, where he lifted three league titles and one Dutch Cup.
He was named Ajax Talent of the Year in 2010, an honour also won by Jan Vertonghen and Christian Eriksen during their times in Amsterdam.
Toby joined Spanish side Atletico in 2013 and was part of the squad that won the La Liga title on the last day of the season as well as reaching the Champions League final in the same year.
He made 22 appearances in all for Diego Simeone's side, scoring twice, before impressing on loan at Southampton last season. He played 28 times for the St Mary’s club in all competitions, scoring once.
Capped by Belgium at every level from Under-15 to Under-21, Toby made his senior international debut in 2009 and appeared at the 2014 World Cup finals in Brazil, joining Nacer Chadli, Mousa Dembele and Jan Vertonghen in the squad.[/article]
Eric Black - Rotherham Utd (First Team Coach)
[article=http://www.themillers.co.uk/news/article/rotherham-united-eric-black-2533390.aspx#bjDcKCyhKkJlPZFE.99]Rotherham United have appointed Eric Black as the new first team coach.
The former Coventry City boss has joined Steve Evans’ backroom team, playing an instrumental role in pre-season training after the players reported back for duty last week.
A former Scottish international, Black is an experienced coach who has worked with a string of high profile clubs including Celtic, Birmingham City, Blackburn Rovers and Sunderland, whilst also having a short but successful stint as boss of Coventry City, and managing Motherwell in the Scottish Premiership. He has also filled in as caretaker manager on a number of occasions, including last season at Wigan Athletic.
“I became aware that there was a possibility that Eric might leave Wigan and after making contact, I am delighted having met him that we managed to put something together,” Millers boss Steve Evans told www.themillers.co.uk
“Eric is fundamentally a coach who arrives here with impeccable references given to me by the likes of Craig Brown, Steve Bruce and Gerard Houllier. He has a wealth of experience and knowledge as a coach from a career spanning over 20 years and he will have a major part to play at Rotherham United going forward.”
As a player, he won the Cup Winners’ Cup with Aberdeen under Sir Alex Ferguson, whilst also enjoying a spell in France with FC Metz. He was capped twice by Scotland, before finishing his playing career in 1991.
With a reputation as one of the finest coaches outside the Premier League, Black will join forces with boss Evans, assistant Paul Raynor and fitness coach Paul Warne at the club training headquarters at Roundwood.
“His CV as a player and a coach is of the highest quality and he is someone I have known and respected for almost 25 years,” added Evans.
“Paul Raynor and Eric are already vey much working in tandem and the lads have already stated they are delighted with how the backroom team is now working. Eric has brought a new voice to the training ground, and we will benefit greatly from his expertise as we look to build on our success of the last three years.”
Black will be on the touchline tonight with assistant manager Raynor as the Millers take on Parkgate for the first pre-season friendly of the close season.
The club can also confirm that Mike Preston has returned as Head of Medical to replace the retired Denis Circuit. Mike joins after a spell at Leyton Orient and served the club previously as youth team physio.[/article]
[article=http://www.themillers.co.uk/news/article/rotherham-united-eric-black-2533390.aspx#bjDcKCyhKkJlPZFE.99]Rotherham United have appointed Eric Black as the new first team coach.
The former Coventry City boss has joined Steve Evans’ backroom team, playing an instrumental role in pre-season training after the players reported back for duty last week.
A former Scottish international, Black is an experienced coach who has worked with a string of high profile clubs including Celtic, Birmingham City, Blackburn Rovers and Sunderland, whilst also having a short but successful stint as boss of Coventry City, and managing Motherwell in the Scottish Premiership. He has also filled in as caretaker manager on a number of occasions, including last season at Wigan Athletic.
“I became aware that there was a possibility that Eric might leave Wigan and after making contact, I am delighted having met him that we managed to put something together,” Millers boss Steve Evans told www.themillers.co.uk
“Eric is fundamentally a coach who arrives here with impeccable references given to me by the likes of Craig Brown, Steve Bruce and Gerard Houllier. He has a wealth of experience and knowledge as a coach from a career spanning over 20 years and he will have a major part to play at Rotherham United going forward.”
As a player, he won the Cup Winners’ Cup with Aberdeen under Sir Alex Ferguson, whilst also enjoying a spell in France with FC Metz. He was capped twice by Scotland, before finishing his playing career in 1991.
With a reputation as one of the finest coaches outside the Premier League, Black will join forces with boss Evans, assistant Paul Raynor and fitness coach Paul Warne at the club training headquarters at Roundwood.
“His CV as a player and a coach is of the highest quality and he is someone I have known and respected for almost 25 years,” added Evans.
“Paul Raynor and Eric are already vey much working in tandem and the lads have already stated they are delighted with how the backroom team is now working. Eric has brought a new voice to the training ground, and we will benefit greatly from his expertise as we look to build on our success of the last three years.”
Black will be on the touchline tonight with assistant manager Raynor as the Millers take on Parkgate for the first pre-season friendly of the close season.
The club can also confirm that Mike Preston has returned as Head of Medical to replace the retired Denis Circuit. Mike joins after a spell at Leyton Orient and served the club previously as youth team physio.[/article]
Logan Bailly - Celtic (reportedly £250k)
[article=http://www.celticfc.net/news/8577]GOALKEEPER, Logan Bailly is the latest player to join the Celtic squad at Paradise after making the move from OH Leuven in his native Belgium.
He moved to Genk in 2002 from the Standard Liege youth side and in season 2006/07 he emerged as their first choice keeper and that sparked a move to German giants, Borussia Munchengladbach the following term.
Bailly also spent time in Switzerland on loan at Celtic’s old European foes, Neuchatel Xamax as well as representing Belgium at every level from Under-16 up to the national side’s senior team and he is delighted at joining the Hoops on a three-year deal.
He said: “It’s a great feeling, it’s big team with a big history and I’m very happy I’m here. When you see Celtic from the outside, you know it is a big team but when you are here you realise that it is a lot bigger.
“My manager told me about the interest but when you hear that a club like Celtic is interested in you, at first you don’t believe it, it’s like a dream to pay for Celtic. When you play football you dream of playing on the big stage.”
Bailly will take up the No.26 shirt this season, the one left on the peg by Craig Gordon who will now sport the No.1 shirt this term, but the Belgian new Bhoy is looking to follow Celtic’s top keeper in other ways as well.
He said on challenging Craig Gordon: “I have a lot of respect for him because he is a great goalkeeper with a lot of experience in a long career so it will be nice to be training with him.
“I’m 29 but I can still learn a lot from him. I think I’m in my prime just now as 29 or 30-years-old is a great age for a goalkeeper.
“As I said, I’m 29 but I hope that my career is starting now and I still have a few years left to play football.”
The keeper has already met his new team-mates up at Lennoxtown and is looking forward to settling in there, and in Scotland after playing in Belgium, Germany and Switzerland.
He said: “I was up at the training complex yesterday morning and I met the players. Every country is different but this is my first time in Scotland and if you are happy in your football then everything else is alright.
“Glasgow looks like a great city and I think I’m going to be very happy here.”[/article]
[article=http://www.celticfc.net/news/8577]GOALKEEPER, Logan Bailly is the latest player to join the Celtic squad at Paradise after making the move from OH Leuven in his native Belgium.
He moved to Genk in 2002 from the Standard Liege youth side and in season 2006/07 he emerged as their first choice keeper and that sparked a move to German giants, Borussia Munchengladbach the following term.
Bailly also spent time in Switzerland on loan at Celtic’s old European foes, Neuchatel Xamax as well as representing Belgium at every level from Under-16 up to the national side’s senior team and he is delighted at joining the Hoops on a three-year deal.
He said: “It’s a great feeling, it’s big team with a big history and I’m very happy I’m here. When you see Celtic from the outside, you know it is a big team but when you are here you realise that it is a lot bigger.
“My manager told me about the interest but when you hear that a club like Celtic is interested in you, at first you don’t believe it, it’s like a dream to pay for Celtic. When you play football you dream of playing on the big stage.”
Bailly will take up the No.26 shirt this season, the one left on the peg by Craig Gordon who will now sport the No.1 shirt this term, but the Belgian new Bhoy is looking to follow Celtic’s top keeper in other ways as well.
He said on challenging Craig Gordon: “I have a lot of respect for him because he is a great goalkeeper with a lot of experience in a long career so it will be nice to be training with him.
“I’m 29 but I can still learn a lot from him. I think I’m in my prime just now as 29 or 30-years-old is a great age for a goalkeeper.
“As I said, I’m 29 but I hope that my career is starting now and I still have a few years left to play football.”
The keeper has already met his new team-mates up at Lennoxtown and is looking forward to settling in there, and in Scotland after playing in Belgium, Germany and Switzerland.
He said: “I was up at the training complex yesterday morning and I met the players. Every country is different but this is my first time in Scotland and if you are happy in your football then everything else is alright.
“Glasgow looks like a great city and I think I’m going to be very happy here.”[/article]
