Confirmed Transfers (2015/16)

[King Binny]

Diego Poyet - MK Dons (loan)

[article=http://www.mkdons.com/news/article/dons-bring-in-poyet-diego-poyet-mk-dons-west-ham-united-diego-poyet-mk-dons-uruguay-gus-poyet-mk-dons-signing-sky-bet-championship-transfer-2632103.aspx#q6PmtBjVCFPQb18p.99]The Dons have signed West Ham United’s highly-rated young midfielder Diego Poyet on loan until the end of the season, subject to Football League clearance.

Poyet, son of former Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur star Gus, has made 10 appearances for the Irons, including five in the Europa League earlier this summer.

The 20-year-old began his career with Charlton Athletic and was named the Addicks’ Player of the Year after their 2013/14 Sky Bet Championship campaign, despite only featuring in the first team from February.

Poyet is known for his range of passing and exceptional work rate and his form at club level has seen him become part of the Uruguay Under-20 squad.

He completed a medical at stadiummk on Tuesday before watching his new team defeat Bolton Wanderers. Poyet then finalised the move on Wednesday, which means, subject to Football League clearance, he could make his debut on the weekend when the men from MK1 travel to Reading.

Speaking to mkdons.com about the move, Poyet said: “It’s great to be here. I first heard about the move a couple of days ago and it was an exciting option for me. I’m pleased it’s been able to go through.

“I’ve had a good pre-season and I’m feeling fit. I want to play games and I’m grateful to the club for giving me an opportunity to come and do that – I’m raring to go now and can’t wait for the season ahead.”

Manager Karl Robinson added: “Diego is top-drawer and he’s going to make a big difference to this team. He’ll give us tremendous energy in the middle of the park and he’s somebody who knows this division having done so well with Charlton two years ago.

“I’m really looking forward to this opportunity of working with him.”[/article]

 

[Halmeister]

Abdul Baba Rahman - 21.7 million.

WTF? Thought it said 2.17 million at first. Azpil might be switched to RB at times this season if this guy is any good.

Or they will just loan him out for 3 years and then they will somehow sell him for a profit without him ever having played a game for Chelsea.

 

[King Binny]

Portista ‏@FCPortoWorld 2h2 hours ago
Once Alex Sandro is sold, 2015 will be the highest sales window for FC Porto, even beating post-UCL 2004.

 

[King Binny]

Antonio Rudiger - Roma (loan for €4 million with option to buy for €9 million)

[article]Roma have officially signed Stuttgart defender Antonio Rudiger on loan with option to buy. “I’m absolutely delighted.”

The 22-year-old underwent his medical this week and has already made six appearances for the German national team.

Rudiger joins on a season-long loan from Stuttgart for €4m with option to buy at the end of the season for a further €9m.

“I’m absolutely delighted to be able to wear the Roma jersey,” he told Roma TV while showing off his new Number 2 shirt.

“I’ve come here to win titles, to win the Scudetto. I would like to thank all the Roma fans and promise them that I will give everything for this club.”

He was born in Germany to a German father and mother from Sierra Leone.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Pedro - Chelsea (£21.4 million plus add ons worth £2.1 million)

[article=http://www.chelseafc.com/news/latest-news/2015/08/pedro-signs-for-chelsea-.html]Chelsea Football Club is delighted to announce the signing of Pedro from Barcelona.

The Spaniard arrives as a highly coveted winger who can also play as a central striker. He is proven at the very highest level and already possesses an impressive medal haul.

The 28-year-old has accumulated three Champions Leagues and five La Liga titles, as well as being a world and European champion on the international stage.

He said: ‘I am very happy to be here. I am very excited to start my adventure at Chelsea and I am here to keep winning titles.

'Thanks to the club and the supporters for giving me the opportunity to put the blue shirt on.’

Born in Tenerife, the diminutive Pedro, whose full name is Pedro Eliezer Rodríguez Ledesma, signed for Barςa’s academy in 2004 and made his first-team debut in January 2008 after catching the eye for their B team.

By 2009/10, the two-footed, fast and direct winger had become an important part of the Barcelona team. He was the first player ever to score in the Spanish league, Copa del Rey, Champions League, both the European and Spanish Super Cups as well as the World Club Cup.

His brilliant performances at club level saw him secure a place in the Spain squad for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. Pedro started both the semi-final and final, and was a key figure in their victory over the Netherlands.

A year later he scored the opening goal in the Champions League final at Wembley as Barςa beat Manchester United 3-1.

He was a substitute alongside then Chelsea players Fernando Torres and Juan Mata in Spain’s Euro 2012 victory over Italy. The winger was also part of the squad which travelled to Brazil for the 2014 World Cup.

Pedro came on as a late substitute in Barcelona’s most recent major success - May’s Champions League final win over Juventus in Berlin. He concluded his time at the Catalan club in the most memorable manner, scoring the winning goal in their 5-4 UEFA Super Cup triumph over Sevilla.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Norbert Gyomber - Roma (loan with option to buy)

[article]Roma have signed Catania defender Norbert Gyomber on loan for the season with the option to buy.

The Slovakian international, who can also play in defensive midfield, has spent the last two seasons in Sicily.

“AS Roma are pleased to announce Norbert Gyomber has joined the club on a season-long loan deal from Catania Calcio,” the Giallorossi announced on their official website.

“The agreement includes an option to make the transfer permanent.”

Gyomber, who has seven caps for his country, also spoke to the website, and admits he dreams of playing in the Champions League.

“I'm delighted to be here. Roma is without doubt one of the world's biggest clubs and I'm very happy to be here.

“Playing in the Champions League has always been a dream of mine and it's one I hope to realise. First of all I have to train well and then if I get the chance to play, it will be a special moment.

“I want to train well and do everything the coach asks of me. As for the team, we definitely need to compete for the Scudetto and we'll see what happens.

“My idols? [Zinedine] Zidane was my hero back in the day but now I'll definitely look up to [Francesco] Totti.”[/article]

Nicolas Otamendi - Man City (reportedly £28.5 million)

[article=http://www.mcfc.com/News/Team-news/2015/August/Manchester-City-sign-Nicolas-Otamendi-from-Valencia/1439913882]Manchester City are delighted to announce that Nicolas Otamendi has joined the Club on a five-year deal.

The Argentine international follows Raheem Sterling and Fabian Delph to the Etihad Stadium and will wear the no.30 shirt.

Recognised as one of the continent’s best central defenders, Otamendi leaves Valencia where his performances earned him a place in La Liga’s 2014/15 Team of the Season.

In the summer, the 27-year old was a teammate of Sergio Aguero, Martin Demichelis and Pablo Zabaleta as Argentina reached the Copa America final.

Although the Albiceleste were defeated by Chile on penalties, Nicolas was recognised for his excellent form throughout the competition with a place in the Team of the Tournament as his side conceded just three goals in their six games.

Otamendi said: “I am here to give my best, to fight game by game and push City to the highest peaks for as long as possible, and I wish we will be able to win several cups and titles.

"That’s the most important. To be here inside a club that looks so wonderful from the outside is a dream.”

Manager Manuel Pellegrini added: “Nicolas Otamendi was arguably the best defender in La Liga last season and so naturally I’m delighted to have added a player of his quality.

“He is an established international for one of the best nations in world football and I have no doubt that he has the right mentality to fit into a squad where he will find many familiar faces, including Eliaquim and Fernando who he played alongside in Portugal.

“As a footballer, Nicolas has all of the qualities to be a success in the Premier League – he’s strong, he’s excellent in the tackle and he’s very good technically.

“I am sure he will become another Argentine player our fans will enjoy watching.”

As his new manager alluded to, Otamendi’s signing reunites Fernando and Eliaquim Mangala with their former FC Porto teammate.

Nicolas won the Primeira Liga three times in his four years in Portugal, as well as the Europa League and the Portuguese Cup in 2011.

The Buenos Aires-born man started out on his career at Velez Sarsfield where he spent 15 years between 1995 and 2010.

During this 15-year association with Velez, Otamendi brought the 2009 Clausura to the Jose Amalfitani Stadium and was named in the 2009 South American Team of the Year – just one year after his senior debut in May 2008.

Earning his first senior international call-up from Diego Maradona in qualifiers for the 2010 World Cup, Nicolas made his debut against Panama as a 19-year old in a 3-1 win.

He has since gone on play 25 times for his nation, representing them in the 2010 World Cup.

Although he was omitted from the squad which reached the final in Brazil last year, he returned for the Copa America this summer and played all but one match in their run to the final, partnering Demichelis in the semi and the final.

With Willy Caballero and Bruno Zuculini already at the Club, the defender’s arrival means that City now have six Argentine players in the first-team squad.[/article]

Michel - Marseille (Head Coach)

[article]French club Marseille says it has appointed Michel Gonzalez as its coach.

The former Real Madrid captain replaces Marcelo Bielsa who resigned earlier this month over a contract dispute.

The 52-year-old Gonzalez, who led Olympiakos to two Greek league titles, signed a two-year contract with Marseille.

Bielsa, the former Argentina coach widely credited with Marseille's return to prominence, resigned Aug. 9 over a contract dispute after the club allegedly amended the terms of a new deal.

Marseille finished fourth in the French league last season.[/article]

Rémy Cabella - Marseille (loan)

[article]Remy Cabella has described his loan switch to Marseille as 'pure joy' after he moved to the French giants as a makeweight attachment in the £12million deal that saw Florian Thauvin sign for Newcastle.

Cabella arrived on Tyneside himself for the same fee last summer from Montpellier, but struggled to make an impact in English football and has been promptly moved on.

Marseille will be obligated to sign Cabella permanently should the 25-year-old meet a certain criteria in terms of goals and appearances, but the fee in that eventuality has yet to be disclosed.

Cabella's departure from St James' Park has been met by a mixed reaction from Newcastle supporters.

While some were disappointed with his paltry return of just one goal and two assists from 31 appearances last season, others had hoped he would be given another chance to prove himself.

The France international winger was recently labelled 'lightweight' by former Newcastle captain Rob Lee, who felt that he lacked the physicality to make it in the Premier League.

Cabella, though, has denied that he will allow such criticism to affect him, and insists that his experience at Newcastle has actually helped him to develop his game. 'I learned a lot in England,' he said on Twitter.

As a youngster, Cabella grew up supporting Marseille and added: 'I look forward to seeing the field.' [/article]

 

[King Binny]

Alex Sandro - Juventus (reportedly €25 million)

[article]Alex Sandro is one step away from being a Juventus player, having passed his medical.

The Porto full-back arrived in Turin last night, and underwent medical tests today ahead of a proposed €25m transfer.

“Alex Sandro has completed his medical,” the Bianconeri announced on their official website.

“The 24-year-old full-back has passed the tests at Clinica Fornaca and then at the Istituto di Medicina dello Sport in Turin.”

The Brazilian international will now sign his contract with the Old Lady, believed to be a five-year deal worth €2.5m per season.[/article]

Florian Thauvin - Newcastle (reportedly £12 million)

[article=http://www.nufc.co.uk/articles/20150819/thauvin-completes-united-switch_2281670_4944516]Florian Thauvin has become Newcastle United's fifth signing of the summer, after completing a switch from Marseille.

The highly-rated 22-year-old French winger, who can also be deployed as a forward, has agreed a five-year contract on Tyneside and will wear the number 20 shirt.

As part of the deal, Remy Cabella has joined Marseille on loan until the end of the 2015/16 campaign, with an obligation to buy at the end of the season subject to certain criteria being met.

Born in the French city of Orléans, Thauvin made his professional debut for Grenoble in March 2011 before signing for Bastia.

After some impressive performances for the Corsican side - including starring in their Ligue 2 title triumph of 2012 - he moved to Lille in January 2013.

He returned to Bastia on loan for six months and in September of that year Thauvin moved to Marseille, where he made 81 appearances over the last two seasons, scoring 15 goals.

The highly-rated international has represented France at under-18, under-19, under-20 and under-21 level, and was a key part of the Les Bleus team which lifted the 2013 FIFA Under-20 World Cup.

"I am delighted to be a Newcastle United player," said Thauvin.

"I have come from France to a really big club and am very happy to be here.

"It is a big honour to know that Newcastle have been after me for such a long time and that they wanted me that much.

"They have put their trust in me and I am looking forward to playing for the team."

Newcastle United head coach Steve McClaren added: "Florian is a player the Club have been watching for a long time and I am delighted that we have been able to sign him.

"He is a perfect signing for this Club - someone who is young, with great potential and is one of the best young players in Europe.

"He is an exciting, creative talent who can score goals and make assists, and we believe he will have a very bright future at Newcastle."[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Tim Ream - Fulham (undisclosed fee)

[article=http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2015/august/20/ream]The Club is delighted to confirm the signing of Tim Ream from Bolton Wanderers on a four-year deal for an undisclosed fee.

Having now obtained a work permit, the 27-year-old joins the Whites until 2019, with a Club option to 2020.

“I’m more than pleased to be here,” Ream told the official website. “It’s been a long time coming now, over the past week and a half it’s gone back and forth so I’m glad its finally sorted.

“The biggest thing was the history, walking into the training ground and feeling the vibe around the Club and the success that previous American players have had here.”

After playing for Chicago Fire Premier during his college years, Ream joined New York Red Bulls in 2010 and was ever-present in his debut season as they secured the Eastern Conference title. He was subsequently shortlisted for the MLS Rookie of the Year award, but lost out to Andy Najar.

In January 2012, Ream moved to Bolton to replace Gary Cahill who had just joined Chelsea, and went on to make 13 Barclays Premier League appearances in the second half of the campaign. He leaves Wanderers having featured 126 times for the club, and the last two years saw him voted Player of the Season by their supporters.

Ream made his first appearance for the United States in a 1-0 win over South Africa in November 2010, and now has 13 caps for the national side.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Francesco Pisano - Bolton (free transfer)

[article=http://www.bwfc.co.uk/news/article/francesco-pisano-joins-bolton-2635506.aspx#iHIWi8cjCuL8xML8.99]Bolton Wanderers are pleased to confirm the signing of Francesco Pisano on a free transfer.

Having spent his entire career in Serie A with Cagliari, the 29-year-old joins Wanderers on a two-year deal after leaving the Italian club at the end of his contract following their relegation to Serie B.

A right-back by trade, the former Italy Under-21s international was a member of the Italian squad that reached the Under-21s European Championships semi-finals in 2009 alongside Mario Balotelli.

Pisano goes straight into Neil Lennon’s first team for Saturday’s home clash with Nottingham Forest, subject to international clearance.[/article]

Wellington - Bolton (loan)

[article=http://www.bwfc.co.uk/news/article/wellington-silva-joins-wanderers-on-loan-2635471.aspx#Z1lrbKeJudOCswih.99]Bolton Wanderers are pleased to confirm the signing of Wellington Silva on a season-long loan deal.

The Brazilian Under-21 international joins the club from Premier League side Arsenal having spent the last five seasons on loan in Spain - enjoying stints with Levante, CD Alcoyano, SD Ponferradina, Real Murcia and UD Almeria.

Capable of playing as both a winger or a second striker, the 22-year-old started his career in his homeland with Fluminense before officially joining Arsenal in January 2010.

Prior to that he was a member of the Brazil side that competed in 2009 Under-17s World Cup alongside Neymar and Philippe Coutinho.

Silva will wear the number 22 jersey for the duration of his stay at Macron Stadium and goes straight into Neil Lennon’s first team squad for Saturday’s home clash with Nottingham Forest.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Alex Smithies - QPR (reportedly £2 million)

[article=http://www.qpr.co.uk/news/article/alex-smithies-joins-qpr-huddersfield-town-transfer-2634611.aspx#CdpkoL7XWsFpFq0D.99]QPR have completed the signing of goalkeeper Alex Smithies.

The 25 year-old has signed a three-year deal at Loftus Road, after Rangers agreed an undisclosed fee with Huddersfield Town for the keeper’s services.

Head Coach, Chris Ramsey, expressed his delight at welcoming the experienced keeper to the club, commenting: “Alex is a decent addition to the group for us. He’s played at this level and knows what it takes to compete in the Championship.

“He’s approaching 250 league starts, so we’re delighted to add him to the squad.”

Smithies, who made 45 starts in all competitions for the Terriers last season, is excited about his move to Loftus Road, commenting: “This was a big decision but the timing was right for my career.

“QPR is the ideal opportunity for me. I have worked hard and now is the time for a new challenge. Being at a club that was recently in the Premier League, there is going to be a lot of expectation to push on and improve, and I think I will thrive off that.

“QPR want to bring in young players who are hungry for the game and want to do well for the club, and I certainly fit that bill.”

QPR’s Director of Football, Les Ferdinand, said: “We’re really pleased Alex has agreed to join us.

“He’s a proven Championship performer and the goalkeeping coach at the club, whose opinion I value highly, rates him as a very capable keeper.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming him into the squad.”

Smithies will be eligible to feature for the R’s in Saturday’s Championship fixture against Rotherham United.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Kyle Ebecilio - Nottingham Forest (loan)

[article=http://www.nottinghamforest.co.uk/news/article/reds-land-dutch-midfielder-2634243.aspx#eXgEYAzLxZOeW4gi.99]FC Twente’s Kyle Ebecilio has arrived at The City Ground on a season-long loan.

The 21-year-old has experience of playing in England after spending three years in Arsenal’s academy.

He arrived at the Emirates after progressing through the youth ranks of his hometown club, Feyenoord, and returned to the Netherlands in May 2013 to sign for Twente.

Ebecilio has made more than 60 appearances for the Dutch top-flight side and has several Under 21s caps to his name.

The Dutchman becomes Dougie Freedman’s fourth signing of the summer following the arrival of Matt Mills, Jamie Ward and Daniel Pinillos.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Konstantinos Stafylidis - Augsburg (reportedly €2.5 million)

[article]Bayer 04 and Konstantinos Stafylidis have gone their separate ways: The Werkself's Greek left-back signed a two-year deal at Bundesligia club FC Augsburg,as they prepare for their first Europa League campaign.

Bayer 04 signed the 21-year-old from PAOK Saloniki in 2013. 'Stafy' made just one Bundesliga appearance in his first season at Leverkusen when he came off the bench in a 3-0 win against FC Nürnberg. The Greece international went on loan to Fulham at the start of last season. Stafylidis played 34 league games for the Championship side before returning to Leverkuse in the summer. In addition to Stafylidis, Bayer 04 had two other left-backs in the current squad in Wendell and Sebastian Boenisch.[/article]

 

[Halmeister]

This is all well and good, Binny, but you need to keep up with the times. I demand a run down of all these players' stats on football manager right now.

 

[Fabio]

This is all well and good, Binny, but you need to keep up with the times. I demand a run down of all these players' stats on football manager right now.

If he actually does this with his cold robotic logic, I hope you feel guilty for making him work harder

 

[Halmeister]

If he actually does this with his cold robotic logic, I hope you feel guilty for making him work harder

Hahaha I felt bad after I pressed 'post' because I reckon he actually would go off and do it.

Binny, it was a joke... DON'T!

 

[King Binny]

If he actually does this with his cold robotic logic, I hope you feel guilty for making him work harder

Hahaha I felt bad after I pressed 'post' because I reckon he actually would go off and do it.

Binny, it was a joke... DON'T!

Lol. Seeing that the last official update was in Feb 2015, it would've been inaccurate too. 😛

 

[King Binny]

Sami Hyypia - FC Zurich (Head Coach)

[article]Former Liverpool and Finland defender Sami Hyypia has been appointed as the new coach of Swiss side FC Zurich.

Hyypia, 41, has signed a two-year contract having been out of work since he quit as Brighton boss in December 2014 after just six wins in 26 games.

He takes over from Urs Meier, who was sacked on 3 August shortly after a 3-2 home defeat by city rivals Grasshopper.

Hyypia also had a spell in charge of German club Bayer Leverkusen but was sacked following a poor run of results.

Hyypia, who won 105 caps for Finland, was a Champions League winner at Liverpool in 2005, and was also part of the team who secured a historic FA Cup, League Cup and Uefa Cup treble in 2001.

He made 464 appearances in a decade at Anfield, and won seven player of the year awards in his homeland between 1999 and 2008.[/article]
Markus Babbel and Sami Hyypia both in the Swiss League then.

 

[King Binny]

Alen Halilovic - Sporting Gijon (loan)

[article]As revealed by his agent on Wednesday, Alen Halilovic will spend the 2015-16 season on loan with newly-promoted La Liga side Sporting Gijon.

Barcelona confirmed the move on Friday evening after the young Croatian had travelled to Gijon earlier in the day.

Zoran Stojadinovic, the young midfielder's representative, spoke with Sporting's sporting director, Nicolas Rodriguez, earlier this week to make the loan official.

"We've already said 'yes' to Nico and we will travel north later this week to sign," he admitted on Wednesday.

Sporting are not allowed to sign players this summer, but they are allowed to bring players in on loan, with Halilovic's arrival a real boost.

Barça have asked that the midfielder plays at least 60 percent of official matches, a term which the Asturian club have agreed to.

Halilovic, who has been with Barça's first team throughout pre-season, was photographed with his new club's scarf after sealing his switch.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Kenedy - Chelsea (reportedly £6.3 million)

[article=http://www.chelseafc.com/news/latest-news/2015/08/kenedy-signs.html]Chelsea Football Club is delighted to announce we have completed the signing of Kenedy from Fluminense.

The 19-year-old forward arrives from his native Brazil, for whom he has played at Under-20 level.

Kenedy, who will wear the No.16 shirt, said: 'I am very happy to complete my transfer to Chelsea.'

The youngster played for the Blues in our pre-season friendly against Barcelona in Washington DC after Fluminense gave permission for him to take part.

'It is an exciting time for me to join the English Premier League champions and I hope I can become an important player for the club,' he added. 'I very much enjoyed my time with the squad during pre-season and I am very grateful to Fluminense for allowing me this opportunity.'

Kenedy, full name Robert Kenedy Nunes do Nascimento, is a powerful left-footed attacker who can play through the centre or on either flank.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Izale McLeod - Notts County (undisclosed six-figure fee)

[article=http://www.nottscountyfc.co.uk/news/article/club-completes-izale-mcleod-capture-2639132.aspx#DvQSP3qflO8ZE9uZ.99]Notts County FC are delighted to announce the signing of Izale McLeod from Crawley Town for an undisclosed six-figure fee.

McLeod, the former-Charlton Athletic, Derby County and Portsmouth striker, scored 21 goals from 45 starts in Sky Bet League Two and has signed a two year deal at Meadow Lane. Izale was unveiled to the crowd at half-time of today's game with Accrington Stanely.

Chairman Ray Trew told the Official Site: “We’ve been trying to sign Izale for the last month and eventually we were able to strike a deal with Crawley which we’re very happy with.

“Obviously we still have a few issues with the team which we’re addressing. Ricardo wants a proven goal scorer and we’ve got that for this level.

“At Huddersfield we played exceptionally well but we’re always searching for players who are going to improve the playing squad .”

Notts County’s Head Of Recruitment Guy Branston said: “He’s a prolific goal scorer up and down the leagues. He’s quick, powerful and his record at our level is fantastic. We’d identified him early on in the transfer window but we saw him as the goal scorer to get us out of this league.”[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Andre Gray - Burnley (reportedly £9 million)

[article=http://www.burnleyfootballclub.com/news/article/gray-is-the-new-claret-2637937.aspx#B33qP5d0oeLsYmqw.99]Burnley have today completed the club record signing of Brentford striker Andre Gray, subject to paperwork.

The 24-year-old has penned a three-year deal at Turf Moor for an undisclosed fee.

Gray, a product of the Shrewsbury Town youth system, top-scored with 18 goals for Brentford last season to cap a remarkable rise through the ranks.

And manager Sean Dyche is delighted to add a long-time target and proven Championship goal-grabber to his squad.

He said: “Andre is a player who we have been aware of since his Hinckley Town days in non-league.

“My coach Tony Loughlan flagged him up there and we have watched his development. I am pleased to say that has gone very well so far.

“He has worked very, very hard to get to the level he’s at. He has risen up the ladder and, in many ways, had a similar pathway to two former strikers here, Danny Ings and Charlie Austin.

“In that respect there is a rawness, a hunger and a great desire from him to continue his education and go even further, and we intend that to be with us in the immediacy and also in the future.”

The former England C international, who will wear the number seven shirt at Turf Moor, joined the youth set-up at Shrewsbury in 2004 and five years later signed his first professional deal with the Shrews.

However, after finding appearances limited he soon joined non-league Telford and Hinckley on loan, then a permanent deal with the latter, where he scored freely, scoring 37 goals in 85 appearances.

Gray’s big break came in 2012 when he joined then Conference Premier side Luton Town, initially on loan, where he made history by scoring in his first four games.

His total of seven goals in 12 games helped Luton reach the play-off finals, and that summer he signed a two-year deal with the Hatters.

By November 2013, his goals had helped propel Luton to the top of the Conference Premier table – and the following summer, having scored 30 goals in 45 games during the 2013–14 season, the club’s Young Player of the Year won the golden boot and helped Town earn promotion back into the Football League as Conference Premier champions.

Gray eventually left Luton for Brentford in the summer of 2014, having made 111 appearances and scored 57 goals during his two-year at Kenilworth Road.

And in his only season at Griffin Park, he added to his reputation by showing he can score goals at Championship level, helping Brentford to a fifth place finish and the play-offs in the Bees’ debut season in the second tier. [/article]

[article]Luton Town have pocketed a huge financial windfall after former striker Andre Gray completed his big money move to Burnley this evening.

The 24-year-old, who has been the subject of intense transfer speculation recently, with both Hull City and Bristol City submitting bids for his services, has chosen to join the Clarets, who were relegated from the Premier League last season.

The fee, a club record one for Burnley, is reported to be around £9m, with over £1.5m of that heading into Town’s coffers after they inserted a sell-on clause, believed to be around 20%.[/article]

 

[ILD]

Chelsea sign Bobby Kenedy. ha.

 

[King Binny]

Eduardo Vargas - Hoffenheim (reportedly €5 million)

[article=http://www.achtzehn99.de/news/overview/eduardo-vargas-wechselt-zur-tsg-hoffenheim-en-us/?locale=en_US]TSG have strengthened their attacking options by signing Chile international Eduardo Jesús Vargas Rojas. The 25-year-old striker makes the switch from Serie A side Napoli to TSG, where he has signed a contract until 30th June 2019.

Vargas was a sensation at the Copa América this summer. He was not only the top goalscorer, but his four goals helped Chile win the cup in their own country. Furthermore, he was named in the South American tournament’s 'All Star Team', forming part of an attacking trio with Lionel Messi and Paolo Guerrero.

“I’m not only looking forward to the fans, the grounds, and the atmospheres in Germany, but I’m especially looking forward to showing my aggressive and attacking game in one of the top leagues in the world," said Vargas, who is certain he "can develop in a team that plays a similar style of football to what I am used to with the Chile national side.”

Vargas, who can play in any attacking role, passed his medical in Heidelberg on Saturday. He has been under contract at Napoli since 2012, and has been on loan in the last two seasons with Valencia and now relegated Queen’s Park Rangers.

"His outstanding performances at the Copa América obviously made him an attractive transfer target for other clubs all over Europe,” said Alexander Rosen, TSG’s director of football. “Therefore we are very pleased that he chose to join us and that we can add a versatile and technically strong attacker into our squad, who can play in multiple attacking positions.”

The speedy attacker has scored 22 goals in 48 appearances for the Chile national team.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Modibo Maiga - Al Nassr

[article]Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr have announced the signing of West Ham forward Modibo Maiga - although the London club say nothing has been confirmed.

A tweet from Al Nassr's official account on Monday said that the 27-year-old Mali international had signed a two-year contract with the Riyadh-based outfit.

But there has been no notification from the Hammers and, when contacted by Press Association Sport, a spokesman said nothing has been confirmed yet.

The tweet from @AlNassrSaudiFCe read: "#ALNASSR signed a 2 year contract with former @whufc_official's forward, Modibo Maiga. Congratulations."

Maiga joined West Ham for £4.7million from Sochaux three years ago but has since had loans at QPR and Metz.

If he does leave, he does so having scored in West Ham's 4-3 defeat to Bournemouth in the Barclays Premier League last weekend.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Gedion Zelalem - Rangers (6 mths loan)

[article=http://www.rangers.co.uk/news/headlines/item/9935-zelalem-joins-gers?]RANGERS can today confirm the loan signing of Gedion Zelalem until January from Arsenal.

The 18 year-old has made two appearances for the Gunners’ first-team, and he is highly rated by their manager Arsene Wenger.

Born in Berlin, Zelalem initially played for Germany’s youth teams before switching his allegiance to the USA after receiving American citizenship in 2014.

He has since appeared six times for the US under-20 side and played for them at this summer’s under-20 World Cup where they reached the quarter-final stage.

A midfielder by trade, Zelalem only joined the Arsenal academy programme in 2013, and he has since risen rapidly from under-16 to under-21 level.

Described as ‘imaginative in possession and blessed with clever movement’ on Arsenal’s official website, Zelalem will bolster Mark Warburton’s attacking options and the manager is delighted to welcome him into his squad.

He said: “It’s nice to have him on board and a lot of work has been done. I'm thankful to some really good people at Arsenal and the work done by people here at Rangers.

“There is no doubt he is a very talented young player and I'm sure he'll have an impact for us."

The loan agreement will be reviewed in January.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

John Arne Riise - Delhi Dynamos (free transfer)

[article]Delhi Dynamos have signed former Liverpool full-back and Norway's most capped international, John Arne Riise, who received the Indian Super League outfit's jersey from Liverpool legend Ian Rush.

Much like the signing of Frenchman Florent Malouda on Sunday, the Dynamos made the announcement ahead of an English Premier League game - between Arsenal and Liverpool at the Emirates stadium.

The 34-year-old Riise was a free agent after his contract with Cypriot side APOEL Nicosia was terminated by mutual consent.

Riise joined Liverpool from Monaco in 2001 and scored on his debut as the Reds beat Bayern Munich 3-2 to win the European Super Cup - at Monaco's Stade Louis II.

The full-back spent seven years at Anfield, during which time he made 334 appearances, winning an FA Cup, a League Cup and the Champions League in 2005.

Commenting on his signing with Delhi Dynamos, Riise said, "I am super excited to have joined Dehli Dynamos. I am a person who loves a new challenge, to see and experience different cultures. Roberto Carlos has been one of my heroes growing up as a left back. I'm honoured to have him as a coach, and can't wait to give my all for him and the team. I'm thankful for this opportunity and look forward to start training, meet the other players and staff. See you soon Dynamos supporters."

Dynamos' marquee player cum manager Roberto Carlos said, "Riise is a great player, very experienced and a true leader on the field. He is definitely going to help on the development and evolution of the team in the competition."

Riise's performances with his boyhood club Aalesund made him a hot prospect in Europe with Monaco FC signing the fullback in 1998 where he won the league and his exploits at the French club earned him a move to English giants Liverpool FC.

Riise is also the most capped Norwegian international, making 110 appearances and scoring 16 goals for his country.

Delhi Dynamos FC president Prashant Agarwal said, "We are thrilled to have signed John Arne Riise. I hope I do not get in the way of one of his thundering shots in training."[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Joe Lewis - Fulham (loan)

[article=http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2015/august/24/lewis-arrives-on-loan]The Club is delighted to confirm the season-long loan signing of goalkeeper Joe Lewis from Cardiff City.

The 27-year-old came through the Norwich City academy and gained experience in League Two during loan spells with Stockport County and Morecambe, before joining Peterborough United in January 2008 for a club record fee.

He immediately established himself as Posh’s number one as they ended the season by winning promotion to League One, while he was ever-present as they made it back-to-back promotions with a second place finish in 2008/09.

Peterborough suffered relegation from the Championship after one season, but instantly returned via the Play-Offs at the end of the 2010/11 campaign. Unfortunately, though, a serious injury ruled Lewis out of the second leg and the Final.

He made his comeback in December 2011 and featured 12 times as the club fared considerably better in England’s second tier, finishing 18th. He joined Cardiff in the summer having made almost 200 appearances during his time with Peterborough.

Lewis has made just five appearances for the Welsh outfit, but impressed on loan at Blackpool last season – notably when the 10-man Seasiders secured a 2-2 draw at Craven Cottage.

He has represented England at a variety of age groups up to Under-21, and was in the senior squad in May 2008 for friendly matches against the United States and Trinidad & Tobago.

Speaking to the official website following confirmation of the deal, Lewis - who will wear the number 12 shirt - said: “I’m delighted. It all happened quite quickly. Obviously Marcus got injured and the club saw that it was a bad one and acted to get some cover.

“There’s real potential here. Fulham were recently in the Premier League and you just feel that the Club is ready to be back there as well, so hopefully I can be part of something that will get us there.”[/article]

 

[King Binny]

 

[Hansern]

685 mill spent. Thats ridiculous. We've pissed away so much money and bought so much shite it hurts.

 

[King Binny]

Juan Cuadrado - Juventus (loan)

[article]Juventus have officially confirmed the signing of Chelsea winger Juan Cuadrado.

The Colombian international had his medical with the Bianconeri this morning, and joins on a one-year loan deal.

“Juventus Football Club can today confirm that Juan Cuadrado has agreed terms on a season-long loan deal from English Premier League side Chelsea,” a statement on the Old Lady’s official website read.

“The Colombian winger, 27, will now link up with his new team-mates in Vinovo ahead of this afternoon’s training session.”

Cuadrado only had a brief spell at Stamford Bridge, failing to force his way into Jose Mourinho’s side after arriving from Fiorentina in January.[/article]

Godfred Donsah - Bologna (loan with mandatory option to buy)

[article]Bologna have officially signed Godfred Donsah from Cagliari, on loan with mandatory option to buy.

The Ghanaian midfielder underwent his medical today and completed the transfer.

He had an impressive Serie A debut season in Sardinia, despite the fact he only turned 19 years old in June.

Napoli and Roma had also been heavily linked with Donsah, but Bologna won the race.

It’s widely reported Juventus have a deal with Bologna to sign the player in future.[/article]

Andres Tello - Cagliari (loan with option to buy)

[article]Cagliari have officially taken Andres Tello from Juventus on loan with option to buy.

The Colombian midfielder turns 19 next month and his transfer was completed today.

Juve had signed him from Envigado in June after a four-month trial period in Turin.

This is the same club that provided Fredy Guarin and James Rodriguez.[/article]

Rafael Toloi - Atalanta (reportedly €4 million)

[article]Atalanta have announced the signing of former Roma defender Rafael Toloi from Sao Paulo.

The 24-year-old spent the second half of the 2013-14 season on loan with the Giallorossi, but the capital club decided not to take up their €5.5m option on him.

“Atalanta BC announces that it has bought defender Rafael Toloi outright from Sao Paulo,” a statement on the Orobici’s website declared.

“The player, who arrived in Bergamo yesterday, had his medical this afternoon and will now train with the rest of the squad at Bortolotti di Zingonia.”

Toloi will wear the number 22 shirt for this season.[/article]