Confirmed Transfers (2016/17)

[King Binny]

Johann Berg Gudmundsson - Burnley (reportedly £2.5 million)

[article]Burnley Football Club is delighted to announce the signing of Johann Berg Gudmundsson from Charlton Athletic for an undisclosed fee.

The Iceland international winger, who becomes the first summer addition, has agreed a contract with the club until 2019 which has a further year’s option in the club’s favour.

In the 2015/16 campaign, Gudmundsson impressed in the Sky Bet Championship contributing a joint league high 11 assists despite Charlton Athletic being relegated to League One.

The 25-year-old also played a major role in Iceland’s successful UEFA European Championship campaign, starting every game and getting one assist as they reached the Quarter Final by beating England before going out to finalists France.

“It’s fantastic to be here. It’s a club that’s shown a lot of interest in me and I’m really happy to come and play for Burnley,” Gudmundsson said.

“It was a good season for myself, unfortunately not for Charlton and then we had a good Euros for Iceland.

“It feels like a family club and like everyone is tight to each other. The atmosphere around the club is fantastic and playing against the team last season I saw just how good the club was – I definitely wanted to join.”

Manager Sean Dyche added: “Johann we feel is a quality player who we saw last season playing at Charlton in a tough time and we liked the quality he showed.

“It helps to see a player in the European Championships with that kind of company and he did well there so it was one we all agreed would be a good acquisition for the club and we look forward to working with him going forward."[/article]

Nick Pope - Burnley (reportedly £1.1 million)

[article]Burnley Football Club is delighted to announce the signing of goalkeeper Nick Pope from Charlton Athletic for an undisclosed fee.

Pope, 24, has signed a three-year deal at Turf Moor, with an option for a further year in the club's favour and joins the club on the same day as Addicks teammate Johann Berg Gudmundsson.

And the former Ipswich Town trainee was delighted to have joined a club he feels is on the way up to further progress his career.

He said: “I want to develop as a goalkeeper and with the keepers that are already here I definitely feel I can learn from them.

“They’ve both experienced the England set up and it’s only a good thing for me to be around them day to day in training and at games. I’m really looking forward to it.

“Burnley is a club on the way up so they are two of the main reasons amongst many, many more.”

Speaking of the signing of the young goalkeeper, Sean Dyche said: “He’s a young keeper who we think has got a lot of promise.

“He’s a good keeper now but we think he can mature and get even better keeper during his time here.

“We had to add to that department. We’ve got the experience of Paul Robinson and Tom Heaton with one in between and one that is up and coming.

“He’s been out on loan several times so he’s had a lot of experience for a young keeper and he played a number of games in Charlton’s side last year.

“I remember when we took Tom Heaton people were saying about his side being relegated but the challenge of that teaches keepers a lot.

“We felt he’s learnt well during his loan spells and done well last season and we think there is an even better keeper to come in the future.”[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Michael McGovern - Norwich (free transfer)

[article]NORWICH City have completed the signing of Northern Ireland international goalkeeper Michael McGovern on a free transfer.

The 32-year-old pens a three-year deal at Carrow Road, having left Scottish Premiership side Hamilton Academical earlier this summer.

McGovern’s arrival sees him reunite with Alex Neil, the City boss having previously signed the stopper in 2014 while player-manager of Accies.

Speaking exclusively to canaries.co.uk about the move, McGovern said: "Having worked with the gaffer before, that was a big pull for me.

"I had some interest from elsewhere but I'm really looking forward to working with him again now at Norwich. It's nice to join a club where I'll have some familiar faces around me.

"I'm aiming to get into the team but I know I'm up against some top-class goalkeepers. It's going to be intense competition, although it's a challenge I'll relish.

"I want to play but also I want to help the younger players coming through as much as I can. That's something I've looked to do at my previous clubs, and I'll look to lend my experience wherever possible."

The former Hamilton club captain has had a memorable few weeks, being one of his country's stand-out players at the recent European Championship Finals - conceding just three goals across four matches. .

Reflecting on the addition of McGovern to his squad, Neil said: "Michael is a player that I’ve worked with before, so I know all about his qualities and his character.

"He’s a fantastic professional, and he showed he’s capable of playing at the top level with his performances for Northern Ireland at the Euros. He will come in and offer great competition to our current goalkeepers."[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Adam Bogdan - Wigan Athletic (loan)

[article]Hungary international goalkeeper Adam Bogdan has signed for Wigan Athletic on a season long loan.

The 28-year-old has undergone a medical earlier today and has joined up with the Latics squad ahead of tomorrow evening’s pre-season friendly against Macclesfield Town.

Latics manager Gary Caldwell was understandably delighted to net his man: “When we found out Adam was available, it was a move I really wanted to push through.

“He has great experience and will add immense competition for both Jussi Jaaskelainen and Lee Nicholls, which is what you need to drive the club forwards.

“He obviously knows Jussi from his time at Bolton, he knows the area, the training ground is familiar to him and I’m sure he will be a great addition to the squad.”

Bogdan joined Liverpool last summer and made two Barclays Premier League appearances for The Reds, plus four appearances in the League cup and FA Cup. The majority of his career in England was spent with Bolton Wanderers, where he spent time alongside both Jasskelainen and former Latics favourite Ali Al Habsi. He made 120 appearances in all competitions for Wanderers, and has 20 caps for Hungary.[/article]

Brice Dja Djédjé - Watford (reportedly £3 million)

[article]THE HORNETS are pleased to announce the permanent signing of Ivory Coast international Brice Dja Djédjé.

The 25-year-old right wing-back has moved to Watford in a four-year deal from Marseille, where he featured 70 times during two-and-a-half seasons at the Stade Vélodrome.

He first broke through at Evian in 2010, making 105 appearances and playing a prominent role in the French outfit’s promotion to Ligue 1 during his first season.

Dja Djédjé has played seven times for the Ivory Coast national team and also represented his country at Under-23 and Under-20 levels.

He becomes the Hornets’ fifth summer signing ahead of the 2016/17 Premier League campaign, following the capture of Jerome Sinclair, Christian Kabasele, Isaac Success and Juan Camilo Zúñiga, while Abdoulaye Doucoure has also joined up with the squad for the first time following his signing during the January transfer window. [/article]

Steve Walsh - Everton (Director of Football)

[article]Everton Football Club is pleased to announce the appointment of Steve Walsh as Director of Football.

Formerly joint Assistant Manager and Head of Recruitment at Premier League champions Leicester City, he will take up his new role with immediate effect.

His strong reputation has been forged over many years, working as a part-time scout for Bury, Chester and for 16 years for Chelsea in the north of England while holding down a day job as Head of Physical Education at successive comprehensive schools in Chorley, his home town.

He was elevated to a full-time role at Stamford Bridge as European Scout before being persuaded to join Newcastle and subsequently becoming a key member of Nigel Pearson’s staff at Leicester City and Hull City prior to returning to Leicester in 2011. Following Pearson’s departure, he remained as Claudio Ranieri’s joint Assistant Manager and Head of Recruitment in the Foxes’ first title-winning season in their 132-year history.

During his career, he has been credited with scouting and recommending the signings of such players as Gianfranco Zola, Didier Drogba, Michael Essien, Jamie Vardy, Riyad Mahrez and N’Golo Kante.

Chairman Bill Kenwright said: “It’s great news to welcome Steve to our new era at Everton Football Club. His track record, particularly at Leicester City, is already the stuff of football folklore, and both myself and Farhad, having spent time with Steve, are convinced he is exactly the right fit for our Club and our new manager, Ronald Koeman.”

Steve Walsh said: “I’m proud and privileged to become Director of Football at such a fantastic and historic club. With a new manager and a new major shareholder, it feels very much like a new era here at Everton and that potential is what is most exciting. I know the Club well, my roots are in the north west and my brother, Mickey, was an Everton player in the Bob Latchford era and always proud of that fact. I also did my initial teacher training at Liverpool Hope University many years ago. I’m genuinely excited to be here at the Club and very much looking forward to getting down to work.”

Manager Ronald Koeman said: “It’s really good for the Club to have someone in Steve who has shown his quality in his job at a number of clubs over many years. That’s the experience and quality he will bring to us at a good time in the season. He has a great deal of knowledge about building for the long-term and the magnificent work he did at Leicester on top of the job he did at Chelsea makes us excited to have him here at Everton.”[/article]

Alex Song - Rubin Kazan (loan)

[article]Cameroon international Alex Song has joined Russian outfit Rubin Kazan from Spanish giants Barcelona on an expected one-year loan deal.

The 28-year-old midfielder spent last season on loan from the Blaugrana at West Ham United, having also done so in the previous term.

However, unlike under Sam Allardyce, Song was not a regular in Slaven Bilic's first season in charge of the Irons, and featured just 15 times in all competitions.

Song enjoyed a much more fruitful campaign at the Boleyn Ground club in 2014–2015, playing on 31 occasions, in total.

He began his senior career in Ligue 1 with Bastia, playing 35 games in all competitions as a young teenager in the 2004-2005 season.

Song then moved to Arsenal on loan for the next campaign before signing permanently 10 years ago.

He spent the 2006-07 term with the Gunners, before heading on loan to Londoners Charlton Athletic for a season, with five more terms then following in the north London side's first-team between 2007 and 2012.

In August 2012, Song signed a five-year contract with Barcelona for a fee of £15million, going on to play 34 times in total as his team won La Liga under Tito Vilanova, before another 31 appearances in the following campaign.

And Rubin posted a Twitter photograph of the combative midfielder smiling, and giving the thumbs up, at their training base on Thursday, alongside the (translated) caption: 'FC 'Rubin' reports reaching provisional agreement on the transition to the Kazan club Alexandre Song.'[/article]

Alen Halilovic - Hamburg (reportedly €5 million)

[article]Barcelona says it has agreed to transfer Croatian midfielder Alen Halilovic to German club Hamburg.

Barcelona says Hamburg has agreed to pay five million euros ($5.5 million) for the 20-year-old Halilovic.

The Spanish champions say the transfer includes a buyback option that is valid for two years, at a transfer fee of 10 million euros ($11 million).

Barcelona signed Halilovic from Dinamo Zagreb in 2014 for 2.2 million euros. He played for its reserve team before joining Sporting Gijon on loan last season.[/article]

Grant Hanley - Newcastle United (reportedly £5.5million)

[article]Newcastle United have completed the signing of defender Grant Hanley from Blackburn Rovers.

The 24-year-old Scotland international has put pen to paper on a five-year deal at St. James' Park and arrives for an undisclosed fee.

Hanley came through the ranks at Blackburn before being handed his debut at the age of 18 in a Premier League fixture at Aston Villa in May 2010.

The centre-back remained at Ewood Park following Rovers' relegation from the top flight and was appointed captain in January 2014.

In six years at the Lancashire club he made 201 appearances in all competitions, scoring nine goals.

"I'm over the moon and delighted to be here," said Hanley.

"It is a fantastic opportunity to come and play at such a big club and one that I couldn't turn down.

"It is an exciting step in my career but it doesn't stop there. This is just the start and I am looking forward to helping Newcastle get back into the Premier League."

Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez added: "I am very pleased to bring Grant Hanley to our project to add his hard work and potential to our squad.

"It was clear that we needed another central defender and we were seeking someone with good experience in the Championship.

"Grant is a young player with a lot of ambition to improve and keep growing with us. He is also a strong defender, fast and with personality, a player that surely will increase competitiveness in his position."[/article]

[article]CREWE Alexandra are set to net a cash windfall in excess of £500,000 after former Academy graduate Grant Hanley joined Newcastle United.

Rafa Benitez's men have finally landed long-term target from Blackburn Rovers in a deal worth a reported £5.5million.

The Alex have had a keen interest in the future of the 24-year-old as the Sentinel understands Crewe have a 10% sell-on clause on any fee that Blackburn earn on the central defender, with the Railwaymen set to earn £550,000 from the deal.

Crewe boss Steve Davis revealed last week that he would ask the question of the club's board whether any of the funds received from the Hanley could be used to strengthen his first team squad.

Hanley spent two years at Crewe between the age of 14 and 16, but joined Rovers in 2008, and has gone on to make over 200 appearances for the Ewood Park side in both the Premier League and Championship.

Several other Championship clubs, including Norwich, were said to be monitoring Rovers' reigning player-of-the-year, but having had two bids rejected, the Magpies have unveiled the defender as their next summer signing.

At the club's recent fans' forum, Dario Gradi admitted that Hanley, and former Blackburn team-mate Ben Marshall, were the only two players to have left the Alex and gone on to have successful careers in the Football League.[/article]

Borja Mayoral - Wolfsburg (loan)

[article]Borja Mayoral is set to leave Real Madrid's training camp in Montreal in the coming hours to begin his loan period with Wolfsburg. Before departing, the youth academy graduate spoke to Realmadrid.com and Realmadrid TV: "I'm going to be gaining experience and will be looking to perform as well as I can to come back here. I've played for the best club in the world, something that very few players get the chance to do. I'm grateful to my teammates, coaches, physios and everyone who has offered me their support day in, day out".

"I've had nine unforgettable seasons at Real Madrid. Right now I'm feeling a lot of emotions, but if I had to sum them all up, I'd give a heartfelt thanks for everything that the club has offered me and how it's helped me over the years. I'm going to try to perform to my best to come back here".

"It was incredible. I spent pre-season last year in Australia and this year has been full of success stories for me. I'm eternally grateful to Real Madrid and to all of my teammates and coaches. It's been a tremendous year".

"Wolfsburg are a big name in German football and in the Bundesliga. I'm very happy and excited about the new chapter which lies ahead".[/article]

Mario Gotze - Dortmund (€26 million)

[article]Borussia Dortmund have resigned Mario Götze from Bayern Munich on a four-year deal for €26m (£21.7m), three seasons after the attacking midfielder left Signal Iduna Park.

The 24-year-old Germany international was one of Pep Guardiola’s first signings in the summer of 2013, having agreed to join before the end of the season, and leaves the Allianz Arena having won three Bundesliga titles and two German cups, while also scoring the winner for Germany in the 2014 World Cup final.

Götze, a product of the Dortmund academy, said in a statement on Facebook that his decision to leave Dortmund in 2013 was one he regrets. “Today, three years later and at 24, I look at that decision in a different light,” he said.

Likely to face a frosty reception from some Dortmund fans, Götze said he would do everything he possibly can to win over those who “do not welcome me with open arms” and referred to Borussia Dortmund as “his home”. “I can understand many fans could not accept my decision,” he said. “I wouldn’t reach it today either.”

While the defender Mats Hummels and the midfielders Ilkay Gundogan and Henrikh Mkhitaryan have all left this summer, Dortmund are rebuilding their squad, having already brought in Ousmane Dembélé, Sebastian Rode, Raphaël Guerreiro, Marc Bartra, Emre Mor and Mikel Merino.[/article]

Alvaro Negredo - Middlesbrough (loan)

[article]The club is set strengthen even further in readiness for the new premier league after agreeing a deal to sign Alvaro Negredo from Valencia CF.

The Spanish international, a member of their successful Euro 2012 squad, is set to join on a season-long loan once all the paperwork is complete.

The 30-year-old brings a wealth of experience, having scored 112 La Liga goals in 264 appearances, and has tasted Premier League football previously, with Manchester City.

He cost City £16.4m from Sevilla FC in the summer of 2013 and went on to score 23 goals in 48 appearances, including a Champions League hat-trick.

Negredo has linked up with Karanka's squad in Marbella. [/article]

Leonardo Ruiz - Sporting Lisbon B (loan with option to buy)

[article]Sporting Clube de Portugal – Futebol, SAD has reached an agreement with Atlético Nacional for the loan of the player Leonardo Ruíz for the 2016/17 season, with an option for a permanent transfer.

Sporting SAD wishes Leonardo Ruiz the best of professional and personal success.

“I am really happy to be with such a great institution and I will do my best", opened the Colombian in his first interview in Alvalade.

Ruiz bagged 38 goals for FC Porto's B team and junior team over the last season and he is looking to add more strikes to his tally with Sporting. "I hope to score at least 20 goals", said the forward.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Alex Kiwomya - Crewe (loan)

[article]Crewe Alexandra have completed the signing of winger Alex Kiwomya on loan from Chelsea until January 9 2017.

The 20-year-old has linked up with the Alex squad in training for the first time today & will be available for Friday's home friendly with Bolton Wanderers.

Alex, nephew of former Ipswich & Arsenal striker Chris Kiwomya, graduated through the Chelsea academy in 2015, having joined the Club from Rotherham in 2010.

The pacey winger enjoyed success in the Blues academy, before getting his first taste of senior football in 2014/15 with two-month loan spell at Barnsley and then for a single month at Fleetwood in 2015/16, making a combined nine appearances.

Alex arrives on the back of penning a fresh one-year-contract-extension at Chelsea and will wear the number 22 shirt during his stay at Gresty Road.[/article]

David Button - Fulham (reportedly £2 million)

[article]We are delighted to announce the signing of Brentford goalkeeper David Button for an undisclosed fee.

The Bees’ first choice stopper has agreed a three year deal at Craven Cottage, with a Club option for a further 12 months.

After coming through the youth ranks at Tottenham Hotspur and taking in numerous loan spells – notably at Shrewsbury Town and Plymouth Argyle – Button signed permanently for Charlton Athletic in the summer of 2012, before moving across London to Brentford a year later.

In his debut season he played 45 times as our local rivals finished second in League One to ensure they’d be playing second-tier football again for the first time in more than two decades. Only champions Wolverhampton Wanderers conceded fewer goals that term.

The following campaign things got even better for Button and his teammates, as they exceeded all expectations to finish in a Championship Play-Off spot, only to lose out to Middlesbrough over two legs.

27-year-old Button has been one of Brentford’s most consistent performers during his time at Griffin Park, and he departs the club having made 141 appearances in just three seasons.[/article]

Scott Malone - Fulham (player exchange: Jazz Richards)

[article]The Club is pleased to announce the arrival of left-back Scott Malone, in a swap deal that sees Jazz Richards move to Cardiff City.

The 25-year-old joins Fulham on a two-year deal, with a Club option for an additional 12 months.

Malone started his professional career at Wolverhampton Wanderers, enjoying loan spells with Hungarian outfit Upjest of Budapest, Southend United, Burton Albion and AFC Bournemouth, before moving permanently to Dean Court in January 2012. He scored five goals in 32 league appearances during his time on the South Coast.

He made the switch to Millwall that summer and was voted Player of the Season runner-up in 2013/14 as he helped the Lions to safety in the Sky Bet Championship.

In January 2015, he signed for Cardiff on a two-and-a-half-year deal, making 54 league appearances for the Bluebirds, the first of which was against Fulham.

A former England youth international, Malone made six appearances for the Under-19 team.

Furthermore, we would like to wish Jazz the best of luck in his native Wales, and thank him for his efforts during his time at Fulham.[/article]

Jazz Richards - Cardiff City (player exchange: Scott Malone)

[article]Cardiff City are delighted to confirm the signing of Jazz Richards from Fulham, subject to international clearance.

The Welsh international full-back has signed a three-year deal with the Bluebirds, keeping him at Cardiff City Stadium until 2019.

The transfer sees Scott Malone move in the other direction, signing a permanent deal at Craven Cottage, also subject to international clearance. We wish him all the best for the future.

At Club level, Jazz has played in the Championship, Premier League and Europa League, racking up over one hundred career appearances to date.

The twenty-five year old earned his first senior international cap for Wales in 2012, having progressed through the nation’s youth ranks. Jazz went on to impress in Chris Coleman’s side’s EURO 2016 qualification campaign – notably helping to keep a clean sheet in Wales’ 1-0 victory over Belgium at Cardiff City Stadium last summer.

He was then named in the 23-man squad to compete in the EURO 2016 finals in France, featuring in Wales' 2-1 victory over Slovakia in Bordeaux as they began their route to the Semi Finals of the competition.

Speaking exclusively to Cardiff City Player HD, Jazz said: "It’s brilliant to be back in Wales and I think it’s a big opportunity for me.

"I was here as a youngster and enjoyed every minute of it when I was here, so I’m glad to be back."

Cardiff City Head Coach, Paul Trollope, also spoke to Cardiff City Player HD upon Jazz's arrival, adding: "I think he’ll fit nicely with how we’re going to try and work, the philosophy, and the style we’re going to play with.

"He’s obviously a player I know well from the Welsh set-up, and introducing another Welsh element was another big factor as well. I’m really delighted, and excited about him playing for Cardiff this year."

Jazz becomes the Bluebirds' fourth summer signing, following the permanent arrivals of Lex Immers, Frédéric Gounongbe and Kenneth Zohore in the Welsh capital.
[/article]

Joe Dodoo - Rangers (free transfer)

[article]RANGERS are today delighted to confirm the signing of attacker Joe Dodoo from English Premier League champions Leicester City on a four year deal.

The 21 year-old winger, who can also play as a central striker, has been training with the Light Blues over the last week having made his breakthrough into Claudio Ranieri’s remarkable Leicester squad in the first half of last season.

He netted a hat-trick on his debut against Bury in the Capital One Cup, and followed that up with a goal against West Ham in the same competition, meaning overall he boasts a record of four goals in the four matches he played for the Foxes’ first team.

Speaking after their game with the Hammers, Ranieri said of Dodoo: “He was fantastic. He’s very smart and he was ready to shoot at goal. Joe is good because he can smell the goal.

“When he shoots at goal he is very dangerous, and he had another chance to score. Very good.

“I’m very happy with him and excited because he’s a very attentive lad and often I speak with him about his best position, how to attack and how to defend.”

He also enjoyed a short loan spell at Bury in League One between November and January last year, netting on his debut there against Burton Albion.

Eligible to play for both Ghana and England, Dodoo has represented the Three Lions at youth level previously.[/article]

Jake Foster Caskey - Rotherham United (loan)

[article]Rotherham United have signed Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder Jake Forster-Caskey on loan until the end of the season, subject to English Football League and FA ratification.

The 22-year-old joins the Millers as Alan Stubbs’ third signing following the arrivals of Anthony Forde and Lewis Price at AESSEAL New York Stadium.

Forster-Caskey, who is capped by England at various ages all the way up to U21 level, featured against the Millers for MK Dons as recently as last season, and has also enjoyed a loan stint with Oxford United since making his Seagulls debut in the 2009/10 season.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Marko Pjaca - Juventus (€23 million)

[article]Juventus Football Club can today confirm that Marko Pjaca has completed a permanent switch from Dinamo Zagreb for a fee of €23 million, to be paid over two financial years.

The 21-year-old has signed a five-year contract with the club.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Ervin Zukanovic - Atalanta (loan with option to buy)

[article]AS Roma can confirm that an agreement has been reached with Atalanta for the season-long loan of defender Ervin Zukanovic.

The loan runs until 30 June 2017. Atalanta also have an option to make the deal permanent.

Zukanovic joined the Giallorossi in January 2016 from Sampdoria. He made 10 appearances for the club.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Andre Schurrle - Dortmund (€30 million)

[article]Borussia Dortmund have announced the transfer of Wolfsburg winger Andre Schurrle, their eighth new arrival this summer.

Dortmund will sign the Germany forward on a five-year contract, subject to a medical, just a day after re-signing Mario Gotze from Bayern Munich.

Schurrle, 25, leaves Wolfsburg only 18 months after joining them from Chelsea, where he had been deemed surplus to requirements by then-manager Jose Mourinho.

Dortmund will reportedly pay around €30 million for the World Cup winner, who had three years left on his deal at the Volkswagen Arena.

Schurrle told Dortmund's official website: "Borussia Dortmund are one of the top European clubs with a strong and extremely exciting squad. From my own experience I know how much power BVB can develop with their fans and I am already looking forward to witness it not as wide-eyed opponent but as a part of it.

"I want to achieve great things with Borussia in the years to come and can't wait to start training and convince the people it was a good move to sign me."

BVB sporting director Michael Zorc added: "Andre Schurrle is a Germany international with an outstanding attacking potential, who moreover is a good passer, and also plays a skilful part in the defence. He has a lot of international experience despite being only 25. His quality will be very valuable for our team. Our attack is now complete."

During his 18-month stint at Wolfsburg, Schurrle made 62 appearances for the club and scored a total of 13 goals, setting up a further 10.

Ten of Schurrle's 13 goals came in his final six months at the club. However, his nine league goals in 2016 could not help Wolfsburg qualify for European competition, as they finished eighth in Bundesliga behind Mainz and Hertha Berlin.

Earlier this summer Wolfsburg said that Schurrle, who endured a disappointing Euro 2016, was not for sale, but the player expressed his urgent desire to move and the club changed their stance allowing Dortmund to make their eighth signing of the summer.

At the Westfalenstadion, Schurrle will reunite with former coach Thomas Tuchel, who promoted him to Mainz's first team when taking charge of the club only days before the 2009-10 season.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Rob Holding - Arsenal (reportedly £2 million)

[article]We have agreed to sign young defender Rob Holding from Bolton Wanderers on a long-term contract.

The 20-year-old enjoyed a promising first senior campaign in 2015/16, making 30 appearances for Bolton and winning the club's player of the season award.

This summer, Rob helped England Under-21s to victory in the Toulon tournament in France alongside Calum Chambers.

Rob is a versatile player, comfortable at both centre back and full back, and we look forward to him joining up with the squad. His transfer is subject to the completion of regulatory processes.

We remain in the market, so stay close to Arsenal.com for any further transfer news. [/article]

 

[King Binny]

Filip Djuricic - Sampdoria (loan with option to buy)

[article]Sampdoria have officially signed Filip Djuricic from Benfica, on loan with an option to buy at the end of the season.

The 24-year-old attacking midfielder is a full Serbia international with 24 caps and four goals to his name.

He generally plays in the trequartista role behind the strikers.

“U.C. Sampdoria reports that Serbian attacking midfielder Filip Djuricic – born in Obrenovac, Serbia on 30 January 1992 – has joined the club from Benfica on a loan deal that includes an option to buy,” read a statement.

Signed by Benfica in July 2013, he had spells at FSV Mainz, Southampton and Anderlecht.

He was also in the Olympiacos youth academy for one season.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Damien Perquis - Nottingham Forest (free transfer)

[article]Nottingham Forest have signed experienced defender Damien Perquis on a free transfer.

The 32-year-old centre back, who has signed a two-year deal, racked up a number of appearances in the French and Spanish top flights with Sochaux and Real Betis before most recently playing for Toronto in the MLS.

Perquis, who was born in France but plays for Poland at international level, began his career with hometown team Troyes, progressing through their academy and becoming a first-team regular.

His talent was spotted by Ligue 1 side Saint-Etienne, for whom he made more than 30 appearances before being loaned to Sochaux.

It was there that he really found his feet, impressing enough to earn a permanent transfer in 2008, going on to make nearly 150 appearances for the club and playing every minute of Poland’s Euro 2012 finals campaign.

After the tournament, Perquis signed for Betis and made his debut as a substitute in a 1-0 La Liga win over Espanyol. A fractured jaw sustained in an unfortunate collision against Malaga in 2013 halted his progress briefly, but he nevertheless departed Spain for Canada with considerable experience under his belt.

His arrival in Toronto last January presented regular first-team opportunities, with Perquis proving himself a dependable figure at the heart of their defence before agreeing his departure earlier this month.

Perquis joins fellow new arrival Thomas Lam in competing with the likes of Matt Mills and Jack Hobbs for a place in Philippe Montanier’s defence.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

David Moyes - Sunderland (Manager)

[article]Sunderland AFC confirms the appointment of David Moyes as its new manager.

Moyes, 53, has signed a four-year deal at the Stadium of Light.

Speaking about the appointment, chairman Ellis Short said: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome David Moyes to Sunderland, who was by far and away our first choice.

“He is a man whose football pedigree speaks for itself and is someone I have long admired. I have spoken with him on many occasions and I have always been hugely impressed.

"He was my number one managerial target for the last five appointments, but his desire to honour existing contracts meant we were not able to bring him to Sunderland previously.

"To be able to finally welcome him as our manager is fantastic news for the club.

“The fact that David has committed to a four-year deal is a clear demonstration of his belief in what he can achieve here. It is our aim to become a better, stronger and more stable football club and with a manager of David’s calibre and experience at the helm, we have a fantastic opportunity to begin looking upwards, rather than downwards every season."

David Moyes said: “I am delighted to have joined Sunderland. I am relishing the challenge and excited by the opportunity.

“I have taken over a big British club with a great support and I’m looking forward to working in the Premier League again.

“I look forward to continuing the good work done by Sam”.

The Scot boasts a wealth of experience at the top level and is a three-time LMA Manager of the Year (2002-03, 2004-05, 2008-09). He has also won 10 Manager of the Month awards in England and has managed more than 800 senior games in club football.

Moyes began his managerial career with Preston North End in 1998, going on to win the Second Division title with the club.

He moved to Everton in March 2002 and enjoyed huge success during more than 11 years at Goodison Park.

During that time, Moyes established the Toffees as a force in the upper reaches of the table as well as leading the club into Europe.

Moyes’ work at Goodison Park led to his appointment as Sir Alex Ferguson’s successor as manager of Manchester United ahead of the 2013-14 season.

He subsequently moved to Spain to join Real Sociedad in November 2014 and spent a year with the club, where his achievements included a famous 1-0 win over Barcelona.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Jordan Lukaku - Lazio (reportedly €5 million + potential add ons up to €1 million)

[article]Belgium international Jordan Lukaku is “excited” after completing his transfer from Oostende to Lazio.

The left-back arrived today and passed his medical before signing the new contract.

His transfer is believed to be worth €5m plus €1m in performance-related bonuses.

“My Italian is not too good right now, but in two or three months I will be able to speak to you guys in Italian,” Lukaku told Mediaset Premium.

“All I can say is I’m excited to join the club, I will do my best to help the team and Forza Lazio.”[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Fernando Amorebieta - Sporting Gijon (€300k)

[article]Fernando Amorebieta is set to sign for Sporting de Gijón - pending the official word from the Asturian club which is expected within the next few hours. Alavés and Sporting have spent the summer tussling to sign the 31-year-old, in the end it was Abelardo who got his man, for a reported 300,000 euro fee.

Sporting have been on the lookout for a central defender after losing Bernardo Espinosa to Middlesbrough and Luis Hernández to Leicester, and Abelardo's preferred choice was the former Atlhetic Club defender, who joined Fulham in 2013. Amorebieta didn't manage to lock down a regular place at Craven Cottage and spent the last two seasons on loan at Middlesbrough. Once the transfer is made official, the player will join up with the Sporting squad for their summer stage in Portugal.[/article]

Julen Lopetegui - Spain (National Coach)

[article]Spain have appointed the former Porto manager Julen Lopetegui as their new coach to replace Vicente del Bosque.

The former goalkeeper, who was recently linked with a move to England to replace Kenny Jackett at Wolverhampton Wanderers, has coached Spain at youth level extensively, having led the national under-19, under-20 and under-21 sides.

He led Spain to the title at the 2012 European Under-19 Championship in Estonia and the following year to the U21 European Championship in Switzerland, with a team who included David de Gea, Koke, Isco and Thiago Alcântara.

The 49-year-old has been available since being dismissed by Porto in January. The club acted after going three games without a victory, including a 2-0 defeat to the leaders Sporting Lisbon.

Del Bosque, who led Spain to the 2010 World Cup and European Championship glory in 2012 after taking over from Luis Aragonés in 2008, stood down after the Euro 2016 elimination by Italy.

He told the Spanish radio station Radiogaceta Sports: “I have no intention to remain as coach. No matter what the result of the Euros, I had no doubt about what my future would be.”

Spain won their opening Euro 2016 games against the Czech Republic and Turkey before a 2-1 defeat by Croatia meant they finished as Group D runners-up, leading to the second-round match against Italy.

They will play Belgium in a friendly on 1 September before beginning their qualifying campaign for the 2018 World Cup against Liechtenstein four days later. The other teams in Spain’s qualifying group are Italy, Albania, Israel and Macedonia.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

André Gomes - Barcelona (reportedly €35 million + potential add ons up to €20 million)

[article]FC Barcelona and Valencia CF have reached an agreement that will bring André Gomes to the Catalan capital. Gomes will formalise the deal and be officially presented as a new FC Barcelona player next week.

The 22-year-old Portuguese midfielder thus becomes the fourth reinforcement for Barça ahead of the 2016/17 season following the additions of Galician midfielder Denis Suárez and French defenders Samuel Umtiti and Lucas Digne.

Born in Grijó, Portugal, André Gomes is a talented all-around player, something that became clearly evident as he shined while at Valencia CF the past two seasons.

After coming up through the youth academies of both Porto and, later, Benfica, Gomes debuted for Benfica's first team on 28 July 2012. Gomes was shipped to Valencia on loan in the 2014/15 season. At the Mestalla, Gomes has played a total of 75 games and has scored eight goals.

Among Gomes's honours are Portuguese league, Cup and League Cup titles — all with Benfica — plus the Euro 2016 title that the Portugal national team conquered with a 1–0 extra time victory over hosts France on 10 July.[/article]

 

[rurikbird]

André Gomes - Barcelona (reportedly €35 million + potential add ons up to €20 million)

[article]FC Barcelona and Valencia CF have reached an agreement that will bring André Gomes to the Catalan capital. Gomes will formalise the deal and be officially presented as a new FC Barcelona player next week.

The 22-year-old Portuguese midfielder thus becomes the fourth reinforcement for Barça ahead of the 2016/17 season following the additions of Galician midfielder Denis Suárez and French defenders Samuel Umtiti and Lucas Digne.

Born in Grijó, Portugal, André Gomes is a talented all-around player, something that became clearly evident as he shined while at Valencia CF the past two seasons.

After coming up through the youth academies of both Porto and, later, Benfica, Gomes debuted for Benfica's first team on 28 July 2012. Gomes was shipped to Valencia on loan in the 2014/15 season. At the Mestalla, Gomes has played a total of 75 games and has scored eight goals.

Among Gomes's honours are Portuguese league, Cup and League Cup titles — all with Benfica — plus the Euro 2016 title that the Portugal national team conquered with a 1–0 extra time victory over hosts France on 10 July.[/article]

Absolutely ridiculous. What has he done to be worth €55M?

 

[King Binny]

Guillermo Ochoa - Granada (loan)

[article]Mexico international goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa has moved to Granada on a season-long loan, the Spanish side announced on Saturday.

The 31-year-old has been on the books at Malaga since the summer of 2014, but failed to find many first-team opportunities, featuring in just 13 matches last term.

"Granada and Malaga have reached an agreement for the transfer of goalkeeper Francisco Guillermo Ochoa Magana, who has linked up with the side for the coming season," a Granada statement read.

The former America and Ajaccio man will be officially presented by his new team on Tuesday.

A regular in the Mexican national team, Ochoa has made 77 senior appearances for his country since his debut in 2005.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Carles Jil - Deportivo (loan)

[article]Deportivo de la Coruña continue to forge their frontline for the new season and have reached an agreement with Aston Villa for the loan of Carles Gil, who is due to arrive in A Coruña this evening.

Gil will undergo a medical tomorrow morning and if all goes well, will sign a one-year deal with the Galicians. Naturallt left-footed, Gil can play on either wing and spent his formative years in Valencia's youth categories. He joined Villa from Elche for 4.5 million euros last year.

Depor are busy trying to close another operation - that of Florin Andone who is set to join from Córdoba and could be announced in the next few hours.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Dani Pacheco - Getafe (loan)

Robert Mak - Zenit St. Petersburg (reportedly €3.5 million)

[article]The Slovakian international midfielder has become the club's first signing of the 2016/17 season. The player has signed a 4 year contract.

Mak is a native of Bratislava and began playing football at local side Slovan. Aged 13-year-old he moved to Manchester City academy and played for their reserves.

In 2010 he joined Nuremberg and in 2014 he went to Greek team PAOK. Since 2013, he has been a regular selection for Slovakia. He has 30 caps with 7 goals to his name and took part in the European Championship in France.

Twice, in 2011 and 2012, he won the Peter Dubovskoy award for the best young player from Slovakia.

Zenit welcomes Robert Mak and his family in St. Petersburg and wishes him many new victories with the blue-white- sky blues![/article]

 

[King Binny]

Kevin McDonald - Fulham (reportedly £1.25 million)

[article]We are delighted to announce the signing of Kevin McDonald from Wolverhampton Wanderers for an undisclosed fee.

The 27-year-old midfielder joins Fulham on a three-year deal, with a Club option for a further 12 months.

After coming through the youth ranks at Dundee, the Scotsman moved across the border to Burnley on a permanent deal in 2008. He managed 51 league appearances during his time at the club, as well as enjoying loan spells with Scunthorpe United and Notts County.

In the summer of 2011, he joined Sheffield United and made 77 league appearances and scored five goals during his time with the Blades.

In 2013, he was sold to Wolves and helped his side to promotion from League One to the Championship in his first season at Molineux.

His second season with Wolves saw them finish in an impressive seventh place, level on points with Ipswich Town, but his side just missed out on the Play-Offs on goal difference.

McDonald had been one of Wolves’ most consistent performers during his time there, and he departs the club having made 120 league appearances in three seasons.[/article]

Hildeberto Pereira - Nottingham Forest (loan)

[article]Nottingham Forest have completed the season-long loan signing of Benfica’s Hildeberto Pereira.

The right-sided player, who can play in defence or attack, is a 20-year-old Portugal youth international with experience of senior domestic football.

Born in Lisbon, Pereira’s hometown club Benfica signed him in 2011 and he has since progressed from the Portuguese giants’ academy into their B team, who compete in the nation’s second tier.

He has now joined up with his new team-mates at The City Ground and will be hoping to pin down a regular first-team place for the duration of the 2016-17 Sky Bet Championship campaign[/article]

Steve Henderson - Nottingham Forest (free transfer)

[article]Nottingham Forest have signed Charlton Athletic’s Irish goalkeeper Stephen Henderson on a free transfer.

The 28-year-old, who has signed a three-year contract, made 22 appearances for the Addicks last season, adding to the Championship experience he picked up at Bristol City, Portsmouth, Ipswich and Bournemouth earlier in his career.

Henderson’s early potential was spotted by Aston Villa, who brought him into their academy in 2005 before he moved on to Bristol City two years later.

He made his senior debut as a substitute against QPR at the start of the 2007-08 season and continued his development with loan spells in the Conference with York and Weymouth.

With first-team opportunities limited at Ashton Gate, Henderson continued to seek experience elsewhere with loans at Aldershot and Yeovil before signing a permanent deal with Portsmouth in 2011.

After battling with Jamie Ashdown for the number-one spot, Henderson made the position his own but Pompey’s financial difficulties opened the door for West Ham to sign him to provide competition for Rob Green.

Following the Hammers’ promotion to the Premier League, Henderson was loaned out to Ipswich, making 24 appearances, before joining Bournemouth the following season. His spell on the south coast ended in untimely fashion when he collided with Simon Cox in a 1-1 draw at Forest in 2013, dislocating his shoulder.

Henderson made a good recovery, however, departing Upton Park for the Valley and playing regularly for the Addicks ever since.

The former Republic of Ireland youth international Henderson now commences a new chapter at The City Ground.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Kolo Toure - Celtic (free transfer)

[article]CELTIC are delighted to announce the signing of Kolo Toure. The Ivory Coast internationalist has joined the Hoops on a one-year deal. And the move reunites him with Brendan Rodgers, the pair having previously worked together at Liverpool.

The 35-year-old defender has a wealth of experience, having played in the English Premier League with Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool, winning two league titles and three FA Cups. He has also been capped 118 times by his country.

Celtic manager, Brendan Rodgers, welcomed the signing and explained that Kolo Toure’s attitude and experience will benefit his young squad.

“I brought Kolo into Liverpool to add that bit of experience and help to the centre-halves there at the time,” the Hoops boss said. “You saw from his impact there and in particular last season, he was a very important player for Jurgen Klopp towards the end of last season, playing in the Europa League final.

“He was outstanding in the big games for me when I was there. He looks after himself, he’s a wonderful professional and he has good experience.

“With a lot of young players in our squad, he can really help them and he can be of great assistance for the likes of Scott Brown, who is a wonderful leader.

“But he needs support and help around him as well. It will be nice for Scotty to have someone behind him who has that real big-game experience. Kolo can do very well for us.”[/article]

[article]NEW CELTIC signing Kolo Toure has described joining the Scottish champions as a privilege after agreeing a one-year deal with the Bhoys.

The Ivory Coast legend has become Brendan Rodgers’ second signing of the summer, following on from the arrival of Moussa Dembele, and he told Celtic TV in an exclusive interview that he is excited about reuniting with his former boss from his Liverpool days with his new deal, which also has a one-year extension option.

“I feel great,” he said. “I feel really excited because it’s going to be a new challenge for me. I’ve come to one of the biggest clubs in the world and it’s a privilege for me to be here.

“I know a few friends who play football here and I know what the club has been achieving, winning a lot of trophies and playing Champions League a lot so that’s something I’m looking at.

“I played with Brendan when he was at Liverpool and when we spoke about the chance for me to come here I was really happy because we know each other for a long time now. We’ve worked together and he’s a top manager. For me it’s a privilege to come and work with him again.”

The former Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal defender will provide experience and quality to the Hoops backline, which has been hit with a string of injuries to key players, and the two-time Premier League winner said he is ready and willing to step into the breach for the Celts.

“I’ve played in good teams in England with Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool,” the 35-year-old said. “The first thing is that I love the game and the only thing I know is hard work. I’ll give everything I’ve got to help the team succeed and that’s my main target.

“I feel great. I have a special personal trainer and I was back in the Ivory Coast training with him. My body is ready, ready to work hard and give everything for the club.

“I have been playing for top clubs and I’m used to the challenge and I’m here to give everything I’ve got to win my place. You can only win your place on the pitch and that’s through hard work, dedication and determination and I’m ready for that.”[article][/article][/article]

 

[rurikbird]

YNWA Kolo. Best of luck!

 

[King Binny]

Ramadan Sobhi - Stoke City (fee that could rise to €6 million)

[article]STOKE CITY are proud to announce they have completed the signing of teenage Egyptian star Ramadan Sobhi from Al Ahly after being granted a work permit.

The Potters have agreed a fee that could rise to €6million for the 19-year-old, who has been capped six times by his country and is widely regarded as the most exciting prospect in African football.

Ramadan becomes City’s first signing ahead of the 2016/17 Premier League season.

Chief Executive Tony Scholes said: “We are absolutely delighted to have signed a player of Ramadan’s undoubted quality and potential.

“He’s a special young talent who is excited about the prospect of making an impact in the Premier League and we’re looking forward to giving him that platform.”

Sobhi, who is expected to receive his UK visa over the next 48 hours, is likely to join his new teammates in the US city of Orlando later this week where they are preparing for the new campaign.

Sobhi is a graduate of the Al Ahly youth system and made his professional debut as a 16-year-old, earning his international cap a year later.

He helped Al Ahly win a string of domestic honours, including the 2015/16 Egyptian League title under the guidance of former Tottenham and Fulham manager Martin Jol.[/article]

Joe Allen - Stoke City (fee which could rise to £13 million)

[article]STOKE CITY are delighted to announce the signing of Joe Allen from Liverpool for a fee which could rise to £13m.

The 26-year-old, who shone for Wales as they reached the Semi-Final of this summer’s European Championships, has penned a five-year deal at the bet365 Stadium.

The talented central midfielder becomes the Club’s second signing of pre-season, following hot-on-the-heels of the capture of Egyptian protégé Ramadan Sobhi earlier on Monday.

Announcing the news, Chief Executive Tony Scholes said: “Joe is a player that Mark has admired for a considerable amount of time.

“Therefore when we became aware of the possibility of bringing him to the Club it was something that we were determined to do.

“We have had to act swiftly to conclude the deal but we are delighted that we have managed to get it over the line.”

Allen said: “It’s been a whirlwind 48 hours for me but I am delighted to have finally been able to put pen to paper.

“I was really excited as soon as I heard of the Club’s interest and it wasn’t a difficult decision for me to make."

He added: “I am incredibly excited about my future here at Stoke City.”

Allen will wear the number four jersey at the bet365 Stadium and will fly out to link up with his new teammates in Orlando on Tuesday.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Hernan Toledo - Fiorentina (loan with option to buy)

[article]Fiorentina have secured the signing of 20-year-old Argentinian attacking-midfielder Hernan Toledo from Velez Sarsfield on a two year loan-deal, with the option to buy for seven million euros at the end of it.

Toledo is one of the bright talents that came through Velez Sarsfield’s youth academy, and he leaves the club on loan after a total of just 19 appearances for the Argentine giants, scoring one goal and having four assists to his name.

The attacking player has said the player he most looks up to is Paris Saint-Germain winger, and fellow countryman, Angel Di Maria.

Toledo was a regular starter for Velez Sarsfield after making his debut in a 0-1 defeat to Estudiantes de la Plata, where soon after, his pace and vision quickly caught the eye of Fiorentina.

Toledo is set to officially sign his contract with La Viola after his medical however; Toledo has spoken to Firenzeviola.it and said he's “very happy to be here [Fiorentina]”. Toledo chose Florence because according to him it is “a nice place and Fiorentina are a great club” and more so, he is “here to help the team”.

Speaking to the official Fiorentina website, President Della Valle stated that this signing of the Argentine sensation is “a great deal” for Fiorentina.

The Argentine connection continues with Fiorentina as Toledo was born in the same city, Santa Fe, also the home of Fiorentina legend Gabriel Batistuta who scored 168 goals for the viola.

Fiorentina have had a progressive transfer window thus far. After the signing of Toledo, they also have added to their dressing room Davide Astori and Iagi Hagis. However, the uncertanties regarding forward Giuseppe Rossi and German striker Mario Gomez are still in the balance.[/article]

Adriano - Besiktas (reportedly €800k)

[article]Outgoing Barcelona full-back Adriano says he is "now part of the Besiktas family" after passing a medical with his new club on Sunday.

Adriano was due to travel with Barca to England on Monday, but he instead took a flight to Turkey, where he was greeted by Besiktas fans en masse, and the 31-year-old is looking forward to a new challenge.

"I come from a club who ended last season as champions," he told Milliyet.

"I'm a champion, I want to play in a new championship and succeed in the Champions League next season.

"At first, my wife was a little worried and hesitant because of the recent events that had taken place in Turkey, but the arrival of many players and the club's project eventually convinced us. We're also very impressed with the city of Istanbul.

"After leaving passport control, I was frankly surprised to see the large number of fans waiting for me.

"That made me feel good. When it happened, I felt I couldn't refuse [Besiktas'] offer.

"I spoke to [Arda Turan], but also with his representatives. I can now say that I'm part of the Besiktas family."[/article]

Filip Kostic - Hamburg SV (reportedly £11.9 million)

[article]Hamburger SV have competed the signing of Serbia international Filip Kostic from VfB Stuttgart.

The 23-year-old winger, who was one of the standout players on the books of relegated Stuttgart last term, has put pen to paper on a five-year deal.

"We've acquired a really good player and we're delighted with him," said HSV chairman Dietmar Beiersdorfer. "He always wanted to come to Hamburg - that means a great deal to us. He brings something fresh and a bit of flair."

Kostic joined Stuttgart in summer 2014 from Dutch side FC Groningen. He registered eight goals and 13 assists in 59 Bundesliga appearances for the south-west club, and moves to Hamburg with nine senior international caps for Serbia to his name.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Gonzalo Higuain - Juventus (€90 million)

[article]Juventus Football Club can today confirm that it has purchased the registration rights of Gonzalo Higuain for €90 million, payable in two financial years.

The player has agreed a five-year contract with the club.

In moving for Higuain, the Italian champions have secured the services of one of the most prolific and complete forwards in the world game, boasting a staggering 191 league strikes to his name in 329 appearances across spells with the Partenopei, Real Madrid and River Plate.

Making his professional debut in May 2005 at the age of 17, a flurry of 13 goals during the first half of the Argentinian’s second season ensured the French-born forward would not remain in Buenos Aires for long, with Madrid coming calling in December 2006.

Despite finding first-team action hard to come by on arrival in Spain, it wasn’t long before the Merengues’ number 20 was a firm fixture in the starting XI and inevitably the scoresheet.

Taking the opportunity presented by the long-term absence of Ruud Van Nistelrooy, Higuain would end his second full season in the capital as the club’s top marksman with 22 goals, four of which coming in one match against Malaga in November 2008.

“Pipita” would improve on his personal tally the following year, netting 27 times – one more than new team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo and a total bettered only by Barcelona’s Lionel Messi in Spain’s top tier.

After an injury-troubled 2010-11 season, Higuain would form a key part of one of the most prolific La Liga sides ever during his penultimate campaign, contributing 22 to a total of 121 goals as Real romped to a 32nd league title.

After six-and-a-half seasons at the Bernabeu, the striker headed across the Mediterranean in the summer of 2013 to join Napoli. There he would ultimately etch his name in the Serie A history books for becoming the highest scorer in a single Italian top-flight season with a magnificent 36 goals in 35 games – breaking Gunnar Nordahl’s 66-year-old record in the process.

Having reached the 15-goal mark in all but one of his previous seven seasons, the past 12 months have seen the 28-year-old stand in a class of his own in and around the opposition penalty area, scoring goals of every variety with breathtaking regularity.

Spearheading the southern club’s title tilt and eventual automatic qualification place for the Champions League as Serie A runners-up, the South American would go on to register more shots on target (83), more braces (9) and appear on the scoresheet in more games (25) than any of his contemporaries in a campaign that served to demonstrate that his is a unique talent and one capable of taking any side in Europe to the next level.

With Higuain now following fellow Argentinians Carlos Tevez and Paulo Dybala in donning the black and white of Juventus, few would write off his chances of lifting his first Serie A title while helping the Old Lady to win a record sixth Scudetto on the spin.

Bienvenido, Pipita.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Ryan Kent - Barnsley (loan)

[article]We are thrilled to announce the signing of England Under 20 International Ryan Kent who has today joined the Reds from Liverpool on a season long loan.

A product of Liverpool’s prestigious Academy system, 19 year old Kent is a dynamic winger who can play on the left or right hand side. He has already built up a reputation in the game as a player with huge potential and one who loves to take on and cause problems for defenders.

After an impressive 2014/15 campaign for the Liverpool Under 21’s team, his performances were rewarded with a call-up to the first-team squad for their 2015 pre-season tour of Bangkok, Brisbane, Adelaide and Malaysia.

His reputation was further enhanced last season after he spent part of the 2015/16 campaign on loan at Coventry City, making 17 appearances and scoring his first ever professional goal against Barnsley in a 4-3 victory for the Sky Blues back in November 2015.

The winger’s eye catching performances for Coventry prompted new Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp to recall him back to Anfield in January 2016, where he made his first team debut for the Merseyside outfit in an FA Cup 3rd Round Tie against Exeter City.

Kent now heads to Oakwell looking to make a big impact and stamp his authority on the 2016/17 Sky Bet Championship season.

After enjoying his first day at Oakwell today, Ryan commented, "I’m delighted to sign for Barnsley, I am really looking forward to what the season holds for me. I have spoken to Paul (Heckingbottom) quite a lot over the last few weeks about how I am going to fit into the team and how we are looking to play this season. I feel I can bring a lot of excitement to the team, I can play on either side of the wing or behind the striker, I’m really lucky to be gifted with both feet which helps my game out a lot. I have a lot of speed and flair so I am looking forward to playing with the other players, hopefully we can build a good chemistry and get some good wins.”

On securing the signature of the winger, Head Coach Paul Heckingbottom commented, “We first enquired about Ryan last summer and we’ve continually monitored his progress, so I’m absolutely delighted to have him as part of our squad for next season. We saw a lot of him last season and he made a huge impression at Coventry. Playing out on either wing, he is fearless, and loves to take on his man and get balls into the box. Not only that, he can finish – as we saw against us at the Ricoh Arena last season! He’s one of the most highly rated youngsters in the country and now he has a great opportunity to step up and show us what he can do in the Championship. We beat off a number of Championship clubs to secure his signature which is testament to us as a Club and our ability to nurture up and coming talent. I’m very grateful to Jürgen Klopp and Liverpool for allowing Ryan to continue his development with us here at Barnsley and I’m really excited about seeing him in action”.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Brad Smith - Bournemouth (up to £6 million)

[article]AFC Bournemouth have completed the signing of Liverpool full-back Brad Smith for an undisclosed fee.

The 22-year-old, a Reds academy graduate, has put pen to paper on a four-year deal with the Cherries.

Smith, who lined up against Eddie Howe’s side when the Reds played at Vitality Stadium in August, becomes the club’s sixth summer signing and joins up with former team mate Jordon Ibe on the south coast.

AFC Bournemouth chief executive Neill Blake said, “I am delighted to confirm that we have completed a deal to bring Brad to the football club.

“Brad broke through at Anfield last season and impressed whenever he was called upon.

"He is another excellent young player that we believe can progress under Eddie and Jason’s guidance, but he also brings with him experience of playing at the highest level in both the Premier League and on the international stage with the Socceroos.

“It is an exciting time for us as we bring yet another promising prospect into our progressive squad."[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Alexandre Pato - Villarreal (reportedly €3 million for 60 percent rights)

[article]Corinthians confirm they have sold their stake in Alexandre Pato, setting up a move that will send the former Selecao man to Villarreal.

The Brazil club said via news release that they would not release the terms of the deal by mutual agreement between the two clubs, but reports say the Spanish Primera Division side will pay Corinthians in the area of €3 million for 60 percent of Pato's rights.

The move puts a somewhat happy end to a disastrous signing for Corinthians, who spent €15m to bring Pato from AC Milan in the winter of 2013, only to loan him out soon after to rivals Sao Paulo and then to Chelsea last winter.

Corinthians sporting director Edu Ferreira confirmed on Tuesday that there was agreement in principle between the two clubs. Villarreal have yet to make the transfer official.

The 26-year-old's contract with Corinthians was set expire in December, allowing him to negotiate a free transfer with any club.

Pato had reportedly refused an offer from Lazio earlier this summer, angering his parent club who were seeking to recoup any money from their hefty initial investment.

Pato played 62 games for Corinthians, scoring 17 times, while appearing in 101 matches and collecting 38 goals in two years at Sao Paulo.

He played just two matches in five months for Chelsea, scoring once.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Wallace - Lazio (reportedly €8 million)

[article]Defender Wallace has taken to social media to announce he has signed for Lazio.

The 21-year-old spent last season on loan at French side Monaco from parent club Braga, but on Thursday revealed he had joined the Biancocelesti. He has signed a five-year contract.

“It is an honour to be part of this great club with a great history,” Wallace wrote on his Instagram account alongside pictures of himself with leading Lazio officials. “Thank you President Lotito.

“Now it is official. We have just signed for five years.”[/article]

Danilo - Benfica (loan)

[article]Former Valencia midfielder Danilo Barbosa has joined Benfica on a season's loan from Braga, his new club have announced.

Danilo, 20, joined Valencia from Braga 12 months ago in a loan deal which reportedly included an option to buy this summer for €15 million, as part of an investment in emerging stars signed by Valencia's owner Peter Lim on the recommendation of Portuguese agent Jorge Mendes.

The former Brazil under-20 captain struggled to show signs of potential greatness under coaches Nuno Espirito Santo, Gary Neville and Pako Ayestaran last season, and the Liga side decided against taking up their option earlier this summer.

This cleared the way for the youngster to complete a one-year loan move to Benfica, and he said at his presentation at the Estadio da Luz that he was delighted to be now joining the Portuguese capital club.

"I am very happy to be joining Benfica," Danilo said. "I cannot put into words what it means to join this great club. I am now looking forward to helping Benfica achieve their objectives this season."[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Helder Costa - Wolves (loan)

[article]Wolves have swooped to boost their squad ahead of the new Sky Bet Championship season by signing exciting winger Helder Costa from Benfica.

The first arrival after the Fosun Group’s takeover of the club sees Portuguese Under-23 international Costa make the move to Molineux on a season long loan, subject to international clearance.

Costa, 22, is a winger who came through the ranks at Benfica and started his senior career with their ‘B’ team.

His first top division experience came during a loan spell with Deportivo de La Coruna in Spain’s La Liga from the start of 2015, where he made six appearances from the bench.

He spent last season on loan with Monaco in Ligue 1 in France, making 25 appearances and scoring three goals.

Wolves are also close to concluding a deal with Atletico Madrid to bring in Portuguese international defender Silvio on a permanent deal.

A deal is in place subject to Silvio formalising the terms of his departure with Atletico Madrid.

As widely reported, Wolves have also held talks with the representatives of Benfica midfielder Pele.

However, the player has other options to consider and he is unlikely to be joining the club.[/article]

Bafétimbi Gomis - Marseille (loan)

[article]Swansea City striker Bafe Gomis has joined French club Marseille on a season-long loan.

Gomis will spend the rest of the campaign with nine-times French league winners Marseille, who finished 13th in the top flight last season.

The French international has scored 17 goals in 71 games since joining the Swans on a free transfer from Lyon in 2014.

He scored four goals in the opening four matches last season as the Swans made a superb start to the 2015-16 Premier League campaign which included victories over Newcastle United and Manchester United.

The 30-year-old becomes the seventh Swan to leave the Liberty on loan, with Kyle Bartley, Matt Grimes (both Leeds), Ryan Hedges, Liam Shephard (both Yeovil), Josh Vickers (Barnet) and Oliver Davies (Kilmarnock) also making temporary moves.

Everyone at Swansea City would like to wish Bafe good luck for the rest of the season.[/article]

Brad Guzan - Middlesbrough (free transfer)

[article]Boro have agreed a deal to sign United States international goalkeeper Brad Guzan.

Guzan, who was with Aston Villa last season, becomes Aitor Karanka’s eighth senior signing of the summer and has agreed a two-year deal with the club.

The 31-year-old made 34 appearances for Villa last season and played every game for Jurgen Klinsmann’s USA squad in the summer as they reached the Copa America semi-final.

He brings a wealth of Premier League experience to bolster Boro’s goalkeeper options further, having spent seven seasons at Villa Park.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Ricky van Wolfswinkel - Vitesse Arnhem (undisclosed fee)

[article]NORWICH City can confirm striker Ricky van Wolfswinkel has completed a transfer to Dutch side Vitesse Arnhem for an undisclosed fee, subject to the approval of the relevant footballing authorities.

Joining from Sporting Lisbon for a Club-record fee in July 2013, van Wolfswinkel made a promising start to life at Carrow Road by scoring on his Barclays Premier League debut against Everton.

However, he subsequently found goals hard to come by in England, and spent much of the 2014-15 and 2015-16 seasons on loan at St Etienne and Real Betis respectively.

In total he made 28 appearances for City in all competitions, scoring twice. The Club would like to wish Ricky all the best with his future career.[/article]