Confirmed Transfers (2016/17)
- Thread starter King Binny
- Start date
- Latest activity Latest activity:
- Status
Kévin Gameiro - Atlético Madrid (reportedly €32 million + add ons up to €5m)
[article]Atlético de Madrid and Sevilla FC have reached an agreement for the transfer of Kévin Gameiro to our club. The striker, who will sign for four seasons, will travel to Madrid this evening. The transfer is contingent to the French player successfully undergoing the medical examination.
Gameiro (Senlis, France, 9th May, 1987) made his debut with Racing Strasbourg in the French Ligue 1 in 2005. In 2008, he signed with FC Lorient with which he would score 56 goals in three seasons, an effectiveness that would catch the attention of PSG and make his debut with the French senior national team. After two seasons in the Parisian club, with which he scored 23 goals, he came to Sevilla.
In the Sevillian squad, Gameiro was key in the winning of three Europa Leagues. In total, the French international scored 67 goals and gave 17 assists in three seasons to become one of the more destabilising strikers of LaLiga.
José Luis Pérez Caminero analysed the signing of Gameiro from Australia. For Atlético’s Sporting Director, this is "great news, since he is a reinforcement that will allow us to increase the competitiveness in the offensive part of the group. He is a very fast player, a great finisher and has been competing for several years in the Spanish League, so his adaptation will be easier. He is a forward used to pressuring the rival’s attack and tireless in his effort, so he fits perfectly into what we wanted to strengthen our attack."
The club wishes him the best in this new professional stage as an Atlético. #WelcomeGameiro![/article]
Luciano Vietto - Sevilla (loan)
[article]Atlético de Madrid and Sevilla FC have reached an agreement for the loan of Luciano Vietto to the Sevillian team for the coming season.
The Argentinian striker came to our club in the summer of 2015 from Villarreal and last season played a total of 28 matches as a red and white player: 19 in the League, 4 in the King’s Cup and 5 in the UEFA Champions League.
From Atlético de Madrid we wish him the best of luck in this new phase in Seville.[/article]
Wissam Ben Yedder - Sevilla (reportedly €9 million)
Walter Zenga - Wolverhampton Wanderers (Head Coach)
[article]Wolves have today announced that Walter Zenga will become the Club’s new Head Coach.
Zenga has previously managed and coached teams including Steaua Bucharest, Red Star Belgrade and Serie A sides, Catania, Palermo and Sampdoria.
He had previously enjoyed a highly successful playing career as a goalkeeper for Inter Milan and Sampdoria.
Capped 58 times for Italy, Zenga was also his country’s first choice goalkeeper when they hosted the World Cup in 1990, helping the Azzurri to a third-placed finish.
Zenga is set to be in the stands this afternoon watching Wolves’ home pre-season game versus Swansea City, with Rob Edwards (First Team Coach) taking the team.
Following the announcement of Kenny Jackett’s departure yesterday evening, Joe Gallen (Assistant Head Coach) has also left Wolves with the Club’s thanks and very best wishes.
Zenga will formally take up his duties at Compton Park on Monday.
Jeff Shi, Wolves’ Main Director, said: “We’re delighted to appoint Walter as the new Head Coach of Wolves.
“He has an excellent track record both as a player and as a coach, and a wealth of experience he can bring to his new role at Wolves.
"Walter is a hugely passionate personality who lives for football and is fiercely determined to succeed in everything that he does.
“We are looking forward to working with him, and supporting him in the shared aim of trying to help Wolves achieve promotion back to the Premier League.”[/article]
[article]Atlético de Madrid and Sevilla FC have reached an agreement for the transfer of Kévin Gameiro to our club. The striker, who will sign for four seasons, will travel to Madrid this evening. The transfer is contingent to the French player successfully undergoing the medical examination.
Gameiro (Senlis, France, 9th May, 1987) made his debut with Racing Strasbourg in the French Ligue 1 in 2005. In 2008, he signed with FC Lorient with which he would score 56 goals in three seasons, an effectiveness that would catch the attention of PSG and make his debut with the French senior national team. After two seasons in the Parisian club, with which he scored 23 goals, he came to Sevilla.
In the Sevillian squad, Gameiro was key in the winning of three Europa Leagues. In total, the French international scored 67 goals and gave 17 assists in three seasons to become one of the more destabilising strikers of LaLiga.
José Luis Pérez Caminero analysed the signing of Gameiro from Australia. For Atlético’s Sporting Director, this is "great news, since he is a reinforcement that will allow us to increase the competitiveness in the offensive part of the group. He is a very fast player, a great finisher and has been competing for several years in the Spanish League, so his adaptation will be easier. He is a forward used to pressuring the rival’s attack and tireless in his effort, so he fits perfectly into what we wanted to strengthen our attack."
The club wishes him the best in this new professional stage as an Atlético. #WelcomeGameiro![/article]
Luciano Vietto - Sevilla (loan)
[article]Atlético de Madrid and Sevilla FC have reached an agreement for the loan of Luciano Vietto to the Sevillian team for the coming season.
The Argentinian striker came to our club in the summer of 2015 from Villarreal and last season played a total of 28 matches as a red and white player: 19 in the League, 4 in the King’s Cup and 5 in the UEFA Champions League.
From Atlético de Madrid we wish him the best of luck in this new phase in Seville.[/article]
Wissam Ben Yedder - Sevilla (reportedly €9 million)
Walter Zenga - Wolverhampton Wanderers (Head Coach)
[article]Wolves have today announced that Walter Zenga will become the Club’s new Head Coach.
Zenga has previously managed and coached teams including Steaua Bucharest, Red Star Belgrade and Serie A sides, Catania, Palermo and Sampdoria.
He had previously enjoyed a highly successful playing career as a goalkeeper for Inter Milan and Sampdoria.
Capped 58 times for Italy, Zenga was also his country’s first choice goalkeeper when they hosted the World Cup in 1990, helping the Azzurri to a third-placed finish.
Zenga is set to be in the stands this afternoon watching Wolves’ home pre-season game versus Swansea City, with Rob Edwards (First Team Coach) taking the team.
Following the announcement of Kenny Jackett’s departure yesterday evening, Joe Gallen (Assistant Head Coach) has also left Wolves with the Club’s thanks and very best wishes.
Zenga will formally take up his duties at Compton Park on Monday.
Jeff Shi, Wolves’ Main Director, said: “We’re delighted to appoint Walter as the new Head Coach of Wolves.
“He has an excellent track record both as a player and as a coach, and a wealth of experience he can bring to his new role at Wolves.
"Walter is a hugely passionate personality who lives for football and is fiercely determined to succeed in everything that he does.
“We are looking forward to working with him, and supporting him in the shared aim of trying to help Wolves achieve promotion back to the Premier League.”[/article]
Looks like impressive work from Monchi again.
Yeah, consistently scoring goals in Ligue 1 despite not featuring for top team.
Jack Dunn - Morecambe (6 months loan)
[article]THE Shrimps have signed Liverpool youngster Jack Dunn on loan.
Striker Dunn, who ironically scored one of Liverpool's two goals against the Shrimps in a pre season friendly this weekend, has signed a deal until the beginning of January 2017.
The 21-year-old has been well known to Morecambe boss Jim Bentley since he appeared for Cheltenham against the Shrimps during a loan spell in 2015.
Bentley said: “Jack is someone who has always impressed me and I am delighted that he has come to us.
“He is an excellent player and a great finisher and he will be a real boost to the squad and I am sure he will excite the fans as well.''
The original loan spell includes the Shrimps' game against Crewe on January 2nd, 2017.
Dunn has represented England at Under 17, Under 18 and Under 19 levels and also had a spell on loan with Burton Albion.[/article]
Pione Sisto - Celta Vigo (reportedly €6.7 million)
[article]Celta Vigo have signed forward Pione Sisto from FC Midtjylland.
The Galician club announced he will officially put pen to paper in the coming hours to join Eduardo 'Toto' Berizzo's side.
They wrote: "Pione brings versatility, he can play in various positions in attack, as well as being able to unbalance teams, speed and goals, something which he greatly improved this season, in which he scored four in two games in the knock-out Europa League rounds, and two more in other games."
The Danish attacker will be presented before the fans when they team finishes its tour of Italy, where they are playing various friendlies.[/article]
[article]Celta Vigo have signed forward Pione Sisto from FC Midtjylland.
The Galician club announced he will officially put pen to paper in the coming hours to join Eduardo 'Toto' Berizzo's side.
They wrote: "Pione brings versatility, he can play in various positions in attack, as well as being able to unbalance teams, speed and goals, something which he greatly improved this season, in which he scored four in two games in the knock-out Europa League rounds, and two more in other games."
The Danish attacker will be presented before the fans when they team finishes its tour of Italy, where they are playing various friendlies.[/article]
Jeremy Menez - Bordeaux (free transfer)
[article]Bordeaux have reached an agreement for the transfer of AC Milan striker Jeremy Menez, subject to a medical.
The 29-year-old France international is on the verge of returning to Ligue 1, where he has spent the majority of his 12 years in professional football after beginning his career with Sochaux in 2004.
A statement on the six-time French champions' official website read: "FC Girondins de Bordeaux have made an agreement with AC Milan for the transfer of Jeremy Menez.
"Subject to a medical examination, the French international will commit to the Girondins before being presented to the press on Monday afternoon at the Chateau du Haillan."
Menez, who has 24 international caps to his name, also lists Monaco, Roma and reigning French champions Paris St Germain among his former clubs before he moved back to Serie A with Milan two years ago.[/article]
[article]Bordeaux have reached an agreement for the transfer of AC Milan striker Jeremy Menez, subject to a medical.
The 29-year-old France international is on the verge of returning to Ligue 1, where he has spent the majority of his 12 years in professional football after beginning his career with Sochaux in 2004.
A statement on the six-time French champions' official website read: "FC Girondins de Bordeaux have made an agreement with AC Milan for the transfer of Jeremy Menez.
"Subject to a medical examination, the French international will commit to the Girondins before being presented to the press on Monday afternoon at the Chateau du Haillan."
Menez, who has 24 international caps to his name, also lists Monaco, Roma and reigning French champions Paris St Germain among his former clubs before he moved back to Serie A with Milan two years ago.[/article]
Coke - Schalke (reportedly €5 million)
[article] Schalke 04 have confirmed a fundamental agreement with Sevilla regarding the transfer of right back Coke.
The skipper of last season's Europa League winners passed his medical on Sunday. On Monday, the 29-year-old, who has won Europe’s secondary club competition three times with Sevilla, will return to Spain to settle final formalities before joining the S04 squad in their training camp in Mittersill, Austria. [/article]
[article] Schalke 04 have confirmed a fundamental agreement with Sevilla regarding the transfer of right back Coke.
The skipper of last season's Europa League winners passed his medical on Sunday. On Monday, the 29-year-old, who has won Europe’s secondary club competition three times with Sevilla, will return to Spain to settle final formalities before joining the S04 squad in their training camp in Mittersill, Austria. [/article]
Willian Jose - Real Sociedad (undisclosed fee)
[article]Real Sociedad have secured the signing of striker Willian Jose on a long-term contract from Deportivo Maldonado.
Former Brazil Under-20 international Willian Jose has joined Real Sociedad from Deportivo Maldonado on a five-year deal.
The 24-year-old striker, who made his LaLiga debut for Real Madrid in 2014, has since had loan spells with Real Zaragoza and Las Palmas.
Willian Jose scored nine league goals for Las Palmas last season and will complete the transfer pending the formalisation of his contract.[/article]
[article]Real Sociedad have secured the signing of striker Willian Jose on a long-term contract from Deportivo Maldonado.
Former Brazil Under-20 international Willian Jose has joined Real Sociedad from Deportivo Maldonado on a five-year deal.
The 24-year-old striker, who made his LaLiga debut for Real Madrid in 2014, has since had loan spells with Real Zaragoza and Las Palmas.
Willian Jose scored nine league goals for Las Palmas last season and will complete the transfer pending the formalisation of his contract.[/article]
Silvio - Wolves (undisclosed fee)
[article]Portuguese international defender Silvio is hoping his quality and experience can make a positive impact at Wolves as he embarks on a new challenge at Molineux.
The versatile full back has put pen to paper on a one year contract – with a further year’s option in the club’s favour – having reached a settlement to have his contract cancelled with Champions League runners-up Atletico Madrid.
Playing in England has been a major ambition for the 28-year-old, and one he is keen to make a success.
“I’m really happy to be here,” he said.
“It’s always been a desire of mine to play in England and play in the Premier League.
“The Championship is a tough league but I’m positive that we will be doing all we can to gain promotion and achieve Premier League football.
“Wolves is an historic club with experience in the top division.
“The club isn’t in its best moment but I think it can get back there.
“I don’t believe Wolves is a step back in my career because the Championship is full of good clubs and I think we can be promoted.”
Silvio was born in Lisbon and played youth football with a local team – SL Benfica – before joining Odivelas in the Portuguese lower leagues.
From there he moved to the top division with Rio Ave FC and then joined SC Braga in July, 2010.
Braga reached the Europa League final that season, at the end of which Silvio joined Atletico Madrid.
He has now spent five years with the current Champions League runners-up, although he has enjoyed loan spells during that time with Deportivo de La Coruna and Benfica.
Silvio has won eight senior caps with Portugal.
He will come in as one of the more experienced members of a young and vibrant dressing room, and is confident he can make a positive difference.
“I know it’s a young team but I believe that, with my knowledge and experience in football, I can help the squad,” he said.
“I also think my qualities as a player will generally help the performances of the team.”[/article]
Increasing number of Spanish and Portuguese players moving to the Championship.
[article]Portuguese international defender Silvio is hoping his quality and experience can make a positive impact at Wolves as he embarks on a new challenge at Molineux.
The versatile full back has put pen to paper on a one year contract – with a further year’s option in the club’s favour – having reached a settlement to have his contract cancelled with Champions League runners-up Atletico Madrid.
Playing in England has been a major ambition for the 28-year-old, and one he is keen to make a success.
“I’m really happy to be here,” he said.
“It’s always been a desire of mine to play in England and play in the Premier League.
“The Championship is a tough league but I’m positive that we will be doing all we can to gain promotion and achieve Premier League football.
“Wolves is an historic club with experience in the top division.
“The club isn’t in its best moment but I think it can get back there.
“I don’t believe Wolves is a step back in my career because the Championship is full of good clubs and I think we can be promoted.”
Silvio was born in Lisbon and played youth football with a local team – SL Benfica – before joining Odivelas in the Portuguese lower leagues.
From there he moved to the top division with Rio Ave FC and then joined SC Braga in July, 2010.
Braga reached the Europa League final that season, at the end of which Silvio joined Atletico Madrid.
He has now spent five years with the current Champions League runners-up, although he has enjoyed loan spells during that time with Deportivo de La Coruna and Benfica.
Silvio has won eight senior caps with Portugal.
He will come in as one of the more experienced members of a young and vibrant dressing room, and is confident he can make a positive difference.
“I know it’s a young team but I believe that, with my knowledge and experience in football, I can help the squad,” he said.
“I also think my qualities as a player will generally help the performances of the team.”[/article]
Increasing number of Spanish and Portuguese players moving to the Championship.
Cristian Ansaldi - Inter Milan (cash + part exchange involving Diego Laxalt)
[article]Cristian Ansaldi has joined Inter from Genoa in a deal that sees Diego Laxalt go in the opposite direction.
Inter have completed the signing of Genoa defender Cristian Ansaldi, the club have confirmed.
Ansaldi spent last season on loan at Genoa from Russian Premier League side Zenit and the Serie A club activated a release clause to make the move permanent.
However, it was widely expected the Argentina full-back would move on again, and he has already played for Inter in a pre-season friendly against Real Salt Lake.
A short statement on Inter's website confirmed the 29-year-old joins Ever Banega and Caner Erkin in making the switch to Roberto Mancini's side during the close-season.
Inter did not disclose the length of Ansaldi's contract, but Diego Laxalt, who spent last season on loan at Genoa, has moved in the opposite direction.[/article]
[article]Cristian Ansaldi has joined Inter from Genoa in a deal that sees Diego Laxalt go in the opposite direction.
Inter have completed the signing of Genoa defender Cristian Ansaldi, the club have confirmed.
Ansaldi spent last season on loan at Genoa from Russian Premier League side Zenit and the Serie A club activated a release clause to make the move permanent.
However, it was widely expected the Argentina full-back would move on again, and he has already played for Inter in a pre-season friendly against Real Salt Lake.
A short statement on Inter's website confirmed the 29-year-old joins Ever Banega and Caner Erkin in making the switch to Roberto Mancini's side during the close-season.
Inter did not disclose the length of Ansaldi's contract, but Diego Laxalt, who spent last season on loan at Genoa, has moved in the opposite direction.[/article]
Jakub Blaszczykowski - Wolfsburg (undisclosed fee)
[article]The transfer of Jakub Błaszczykowski to VfL Wolfsburg has been completed. The midfielder makes the move from Borussia Dortmund and has signed on in Wolfsburg until 2019. The fee involved in the transfer of the 30-year-old Polish international remains undisclosed.
"Jakub Blaszczykowski is a player that can do any team good – not just due to his footballing qualities, but also because he is a prime example of determination, willingness and passion, who always identifies with his clubs to 100%. With that in mind, we are absolutely delighted that he will be wearing the VfL colours in the future," commented VfL’s Sporting Director Klaus Allofs. Head-coach Dieter Hecking is equally happy to see his squad gain in quality: "With him in the side, we increase our variability and penetrative power distinctly down the right flank. Jakub will also bring us further with his immense experience and help us to achieve our goals, such as qualifying for international football again. He is a massive win for us."
Following stints at home in Poland with Gornik Zabrze, KS Czestochowa and Wisla Krakow, Jakub Błaszczykowski, more commonly known as "Kuba", moved to Borussia Dortmund in 2007, making a total of 197 appearances, whilst scoring 27 goals and providing 43 assists, for the club. At BVB, Kuba also played 24 UEFA Champions League games (3 goals/1 assist) and nine UEFA-Cup, or respectively UEFA Europa League, matches (1 assist). In Dortmund, he was a Bundesliga title winner in 2011 and 2012, won the DFB-Cup in 2012 and claimed the DFL-Supercup in 2013 and 2014. The Polish international also made it to the UEFA Champions League final in 2013. The father of two children won his first title at home in 2005 with Wisla Krakow. During the 2015/2016 season, Kuba was released on loan to AC Fiorentina in the Italian Serie A, where he played 15 games (2 goals) and also made 5 UEFA Europa League 5 appearances. Poland’s two-time Footballer of the Year (2008 and 2010), has won 84 caps for his country and participated in three European Championships in his national team colours (2008, 2012 and this year in France – when he scored two goals in five games). [/article]
[article]The transfer of Jakub Błaszczykowski to VfL Wolfsburg has been completed. The midfielder makes the move from Borussia Dortmund and has signed on in Wolfsburg until 2019. The fee involved in the transfer of the 30-year-old Polish international remains undisclosed.
"Jakub Blaszczykowski is a player that can do any team good – not just due to his footballing qualities, but also because he is a prime example of determination, willingness and passion, who always identifies with his clubs to 100%. With that in mind, we are absolutely delighted that he will be wearing the VfL colours in the future," commented VfL’s Sporting Director Klaus Allofs. Head-coach Dieter Hecking is equally happy to see his squad gain in quality: "With him in the side, we increase our variability and penetrative power distinctly down the right flank. Jakub will also bring us further with his immense experience and help us to achieve our goals, such as qualifying for international football again. He is a massive win for us."
Following stints at home in Poland with Gornik Zabrze, KS Czestochowa and Wisla Krakow, Jakub Błaszczykowski, more commonly known as "Kuba", moved to Borussia Dortmund in 2007, making a total of 197 appearances, whilst scoring 27 goals and providing 43 assists, for the club. At BVB, Kuba also played 24 UEFA Champions League games (3 goals/1 assist) and nine UEFA-Cup, or respectively UEFA Europa League, matches (1 assist). In Dortmund, he was a Bundesliga title winner in 2011 and 2012, won the DFB-Cup in 2012 and claimed the DFL-Supercup in 2013 and 2014. The Polish international also made it to the UEFA Champions League final in 2013. The father of two children won his first title at home in 2005 with Wisla Krakow. During the 2015/2016 season, Kuba was released on loan to AC Fiorentina in the Italian Serie A, where he played 15 games (2 goals) and also made 5 UEFA Europa League 5 appearances. Poland’s two-time Footballer of the Year (2008 and 2010), has won 84 caps for his country and participated in three European Championships in his national team colours (2008, 2012 and this year in France – when he scored two goals in five games). [/article]
Last edited:
Martin Montoya - Valencia (reportedly free transfer as part of Andre Gomes deal)
[article]Valencia CF and Martín Montoya have reached an agreement for the player to join the club in a four-year deal.
Martín Montoya Torralbo (born in Viladecans, Barcelona on April 14th, 1991) arrives at Valencia CF in a contract that runs until June 30th, 2020. He was previously a player for FC Barcelona, coming up through their La Masia academy and debuting for the first team in La Liga on February 26th, 2011, against Mallorca at the Iberostar Stadium.
A right back who has also played on the left side, Montoya has represented Spain at Under-16, Under-17, Under-19 and Under-21 level. He was European Champion with the Under-17 squad in 2008, and with the Under 21s in 2013. In July of 2012 he was included in the Spain squad for the Olympic Games in London.
At club level, he has three La Liga titles, one Champions League, two Copa del Rey wins and two Spanish Supercopas to his name, all with FC Barcelona. Montoya started the 2015/16 season on loan at Internazionale in Italy’s Serie A before returning to Spain with Real Betis, for whom he played thirteen games during his loan spell.
The official presentation of Martín Montoya as a Valencia CF player will be held at 11:30am on Tuesday, August 2nd, at the Ciudad Deportiva Media Center.[/article]
[article]Valencia CF and Martín Montoya have reached an agreement for the player to join the club in a four-year deal.
Martín Montoya Torralbo (born in Viladecans, Barcelona on April 14th, 1991) arrives at Valencia CF in a contract that runs until June 30th, 2020. He was previously a player for FC Barcelona, coming up through their La Masia academy and debuting for the first team in La Liga on February 26th, 2011, against Mallorca at the Iberostar Stadium.
A right back who has also played on the left side, Montoya has represented Spain at Under-16, Under-17, Under-19 and Under-21 level. He was European Champion with the Under-17 squad in 2008, and with the Under 21s in 2013. In July of 2012 he was included in the Spain squad for the Olympic Games in London.
At club level, he has three La Liga titles, one Champions League, two Copa del Rey wins and two Spanish Supercopas to his name, all with FC Barcelona. Montoya started the 2015/16 season on loan at Internazionale in Italy’s Serie A before returning to Spain with Real Betis, for whom he played thirteen games during his loan spell.
The official presentation of Martín Montoya as a Valencia CF player will be held at 11:30am on Tuesday, August 2nd, at the Ciudad Deportiva Media Center.[/article]
Grant Ward - Ipswich Town (undisclosed fee)
[article]Town have bolstered the first-team squad ahead of the new season with the signing of Grant Ward from Tottenham on a three-year deal with the option of a further 12 months.
The winger joins for an undisclosed fee as he becomes the Blues' third summer signing, following the additions of defenders, Adam Webster and Paul Digby.
The 21-year-old made 40 Championship appearances whilst on loan with Rotherham last term, and was named the Millers' Young Player of the Year as well as receiving their Goal of the Season award for his strike against Burnley.
Along with his spell at the New York Stadium, Grant has also had loans with Coventry City and MLS side Chicago Fire in recent years, but did not make a competitive first-team appearance at Tottenham after making his way through the ranks at White Hart Lane.
He did, however, play his part in their pre-season friendlies against a Malaysia XI and Sydney FC last season.
Grant will train with his new team-mates for the first time today as Mick McCarthy's squad prepare for Saturday's Championship opener against Barnsley.[/article]
[article]Town have bolstered the first-team squad ahead of the new season with the signing of Grant Ward from Tottenham on a three-year deal with the option of a further 12 months.
The winger joins for an undisclosed fee as he becomes the Blues' third summer signing, following the additions of defenders, Adam Webster and Paul Digby.
The 21-year-old made 40 Championship appearances whilst on loan with Rotherham last term, and was named the Millers' Young Player of the Year as well as receiving their Goal of the Season award for his strike against Burnley.
Along with his spell at the New York Stadium, Grant has also had loans with Coventry City and MLS side Chicago Fire in recent years, but did not make a competitive first-team appearance at Tottenham after making his way through the ranks at White Hart Lane.
He did, however, play his part in their pre-season friendlies against a Malaysia XI and Sydney FC last season.
Grant will train with his new team-mates for the first time today as Mick McCarthy's squad prepare for Saturday's Championship opener against Barnsley.[/article]
Alex McCarthy - Southampton (reportedly £2 million)
[article]Southampton Football Club is delighted to announce the signing of goalkeeper Alex McCarthy on a three-year contract.
The stopper, who becomes Saints’ third signing of the summer, joins from fellow Premier League club Crystal Palace on a deal that will keep him at St Mary’s until the summer of 2019.
McCarthy, 26, progressed through the youth systems of Wimbledon, Wycombe Wanderers and Reading, before making his senior debut during a loan spell at Woking in 2007.
The goalkeeper had further loan spells with Cambridge United, Team Bath, Aldershot Town, Yeovil Town and Brentford, before making his debut for Reading in February 2011.
After a handful of first-team appearances with the Royals, McCarthy spent the 2011/12 campaign out on loan with Leeds United and then Ipswich Town.
McCarthy, who has been capped three times at England Under-21 level, made his real breakthrough with Reading towards the end of 2012/13 in the Premier League, before becoming a first-team regular during the 2013/14 season.
An excellent season with Reading saw QPR come calling, but after finding first-team football hard to come by at Loftus Road, he moved across London to Crystal Palace for the 2015/16 campaign.
McCarthy now makes the move to St Mary’s, where he will compete with Fraser Forster for a starting spot under new manager Claude Puel.
Executive Director of Football Les Reed said: “Once again, I am delighted to welcome another player to the squad at Southampton.
“We now have two quality English goalkeepers who have both represented the country at International level.
“I am confident that Fraser will soon be England’s number one, and in Alex we have a young player who has already had a taste of the England senior squad, as well as excellent experience at Under-21 level.
“Alex is ambitious and will be pushing for a starting place every time he gets the opportunity, which can only be good for Fraser and a shining example for Harry Lewis and the younger keepers below.
“Working with Dave Watson, our keepers can only get better and, who knows, we could have two Saints stoppers at the World Cup in two years’ time.”
McCarthy said: "I'm over the moon to join a club like this. The club is known for producing young players and they've had successful seasons.
“There's the Europa League to look forward to this season, so there's going to be a lot of games.
“With the stature of the club, I'm honoured to be here and I'm looking forward to getting working with everyone.”[/article]
[article]Southampton Football Club is delighted to announce the signing of goalkeeper Alex McCarthy on a three-year contract.
The stopper, who becomes Saints’ third signing of the summer, joins from fellow Premier League club Crystal Palace on a deal that will keep him at St Mary’s until the summer of 2019.
McCarthy, 26, progressed through the youth systems of Wimbledon, Wycombe Wanderers and Reading, before making his senior debut during a loan spell at Woking in 2007.
The goalkeeper had further loan spells with Cambridge United, Team Bath, Aldershot Town, Yeovil Town and Brentford, before making his debut for Reading in February 2011.
After a handful of first-team appearances with the Royals, McCarthy spent the 2011/12 campaign out on loan with Leeds United and then Ipswich Town.
McCarthy, who has been capped three times at England Under-21 level, made his real breakthrough with Reading towards the end of 2012/13 in the Premier League, before becoming a first-team regular during the 2013/14 season.
An excellent season with Reading saw QPR come calling, but after finding first-team football hard to come by at Loftus Road, he moved across London to Crystal Palace for the 2015/16 campaign.
McCarthy now makes the move to St Mary’s, where he will compete with Fraser Forster for a starting spot under new manager Claude Puel.
Executive Director of Football Les Reed said: “Once again, I am delighted to welcome another player to the squad at Southampton.
“We now have two quality English goalkeepers who have both represented the country at International level.
“I am confident that Fraser will soon be England’s number one, and in Alex we have a young player who has already had a taste of the England senior squad, as well as excellent experience at Under-21 level.
“Alex is ambitious and will be pushing for a starting place every time he gets the opportunity, which can only be good for Fraser and a shining example for Harry Lewis and the younger keepers below.
“Working with Dave Watson, our keepers can only get better and, who knows, we could have two Saints stoppers at the World Cup in two years’ time.”
McCarthy said: "I'm over the moon to join a club like this. The club is known for producing young players and they've had successful seasons.
“There's the Europa League to look forward to this season, so there's going to be a lot of games.
“With the stature of the club, I'm honoured to be here and I'm looking forward to getting working with everyone.”[/article]
Kevin Prince Boateng - Las Palmas (free transfer)
[article]The Canary islanders have reached an agreement with the German-Ghanaian player, with an official deal imminent. The ex-AC Milan will sign for one season with an option to extend
24 hours after it was revealed that Las Palmas were in negotiations for Kevin-Prince Boetang, AS can confirm that an initial agreement has been reached between the LaLiga side and the player’s representatives.
The German-born Ghana midfielder and his agents will meet up over Friday and Saturday to study the contract that the Amarillos have sent to sign, and if everything is in agreement – as is expected – the player will travel to the Canary Isalnds on Sunday to complete the free transfer.
The 29-year old will sign for one season, with the option of extending the contract a further year depending on games played and behaviour – two factors which have caused him problems at his previous clubs.
Boateng – who is an Italian league and cup winner with AC Milan, as well as a Carling Cup winner with Tottenham Hotspur – will undergo a medical on arrival in order to participate in Las Palmas’ first pre-season training session next week.
Although currently without a club, Boetang has been a sought-after player in his career. Having started out at Hertha Berlin, the player has had spells at Spurs (who bought him for £5.4m), Borussia Dortmund, Portsmouth, AC Milan and Schalke (for a €12m transfer fee), the latter of which rescinded the player’s contract last year for disciplinary reasons. Boetang returned to AC Milan in January, where his six-month term ended in June.[/article]
[article]The Canary islanders have reached an agreement with the German-Ghanaian player, with an official deal imminent. The ex-AC Milan will sign for one season with an option to extend
24 hours after it was revealed that Las Palmas were in negotiations for Kevin-Prince Boetang, AS can confirm that an initial agreement has been reached between the LaLiga side and the player’s representatives.
The German-born Ghana midfielder and his agents will meet up over Friday and Saturday to study the contract that the Amarillos have sent to sign, and if everything is in agreement – as is expected – the player will travel to the Canary Isalnds on Sunday to complete the free transfer.
The 29-year old will sign for one season, with the option of extending the contract a further year depending on games played and behaviour – two factors which have caused him problems at his previous clubs.
Boateng – who is an Italian league and cup winner with AC Milan, as well as a Carling Cup winner with Tottenham Hotspur – will undergo a medical on arrival in order to participate in Las Palmas’ first pre-season training session next week.
Although currently without a club, Boetang has been a sought-after player in his career. Having started out at Hertha Berlin, the player has had spells at Spurs (who bought him for £5.4m), Borussia Dortmund, Portsmouth, AC Milan and Schalke (for a €12m transfer fee), the latter of which rescinded the player’s contract last year for disciplinary reasons. Boetang returned to AC Milan in January, where his six-month term ended in June.[/article]
Jeremy Pied - Southampton (free transfer)
[article]Southampton Football Club is delighted to announce defender Jérémy Pied has signed a two-year contract with the club.
The Frenchman completes his move to St Mary’s on a free transfer, having departed Ligue 1 side OGC Nice in the summer, agreeing a deal until the summer of 2018.
The move sees Pied link up with Southampton boss Claude Puel for the third time in his career, having worked with his compatriot at Lyon and Nice previously.
Pied’s career began with Lyon, before making his first senior appearances during a loan spell with FC Metz during the 2009/10 campaign.
The defender returned to Lyon and made 35 appearances across the course of the 2010/11 campaign, going on to win the Coupe de France the following season.
Pied then made the move to Nice to work alongside Puel for the second time. The defender made 83 appearances during his stay with the club, enjoying a loan spell at Guingamp in 2014/15.
Speaking about his arrival at St Mary’s, Pied said: “I am very happy to be able to join this new team. I’m very proud. The English league is a very attractive one and it was a goal of mine to be able to play in it. “I’m now very happy to join Southampton. You only have to look at the facilities and their results over the last few seasons to know that this is a very good Premier League club."
Executive Director of Football Les Reed added: “The signing of Jérémy confirms the commitment of Southampton to succeed again in the Premier League and Europa League, as well as go for a run in the cup competitions.
“We already have a top quality right-back in Cédric, whose achievements with Portugal in the summer were outstanding. While Jérémy will provide excellent competition, he is also a versatile defender and again will be pushing Cédric, Cuco [Martina] and the other current defensive incumbents hard.
“The squad is training very well and there is real competition all-round, which is only right for an ambitious team. They will all be called upon this year to contribute to our pursuit for success, and Jérémy will only add to that.
“I hope everyone will join me in welcoming Jérémy to the south coast as we look forward to another fantastic season.”[/article]
[article]Southampton Football Club is delighted to announce defender Jérémy Pied has signed a two-year contract with the club.
The Frenchman completes his move to St Mary’s on a free transfer, having departed Ligue 1 side OGC Nice in the summer, agreeing a deal until the summer of 2018.
The move sees Pied link up with Southampton boss Claude Puel for the third time in his career, having worked with his compatriot at Lyon and Nice previously.
Pied’s career began with Lyon, before making his first senior appearances during a loan spell with FC Metz during the 2009/10 campaign.
The defender returned to Lyon and made 35 appearances across the course of the 2010/11 campaign, going on to win the Coupe de France the following season.
Pied then made the move to Nice to work alongside Puel for the second time. The defender made 83 appearances during his stay with the club, enjoying a loan spell at Guingamp in 2014/15.
Speaking about his arrival at St Mary’s, Pied said: “I am very happy to be able to join this new team. I’m very proud. The English league is a very attractive one and it was a goal of mine to be able to play in it. “I’m now very happy to join Southampton. You only have to look at the facilities and their results over the last few seasons to know that this is a very good Premier League club."
Executive Director of Football Les Reed added: “The signing of Jérémy confirms the commitment of Southampton to succeed again in the Premier League and Europa League, as well as go for a run in the cup competitions.
“We already have a top quality right-back in Cédric, whose achievements with Portugal in the summer were outstanding. While Jérémy will provide excellent competition, he is also a versatile defender and again will be pushing Cédric, Cuco [Martina] and the other current defensive incumbents hard.
“The squad is training very well and there is real competition all-round, which is only right for an ambitious team. They will all be called upon this year to contribute to our pursuit for success, and Jérémy will only add to that.
“I hope everyone will join me in welcoming Jérémy to the south coast as we look forward to another fantastic season.”[/article]
Kevin Prince Boateng - Las Palmas (free transfer)
[article]The Canary islanders have reached an agreement with the German-Ghanaian player, with an official deal imminent. The ex-AC Milan will sign for one season with an option to extend
24 hours after it was revealed that Las Palmas were in negotiations for Kevin-Prince Boetang, AS can confirm that an initial agreement has been reached between the LaLiga side and the player’s representatives.
The German-born Ghana midfielder and his agents will meet up over Friday and Saturday to study the contract that the Amarillos have sent to sign, and if everything is in agreement – as is expected – the player will travel to the Canary Isalnds on Sunday to complete the free transfer.
The 29-year old will sign for one season, with the option of extending the contract a further year depending on games played and behaviour – two factors which have caused him problems at his previous clubs.
Boateng – who is an Italian league and cup winner with AC Milan, as well as a Carling Cup winner with Tottenham Hotspur – will undergo a medical on arrival in order to participate in Las Palmas’ first pre-season training session next week.
Although currently without a club, Boetang has been a sought-after player in his career. Having started out at Hertha Berlin, the player has had spells at Spurs (who bought him for £5.4m), Borussia Dortmund, Portsmouth, AC Milan and Schalke (for a €12m transfer fee), the latter of which rescinded the player’s contract last year for disciplinary reasons. Boetang returned to AC Milan in January, where his six-month term ended in June.[/article]
Such a shame that his career went downhill for some attitude/discipline reasons. For a time, at AC Milan, he looked like one of the most talented and complete midfielders in the world.
Leroy Sane - Man City (reportedly £37 million)
[article]Manchester City are delighted to announce the signing of Leroy Sane from Schalke 04.
The German international becomes our fifth signing of summer 2016 and will wear the No.19 shirt.
Sane has signed a five-year deal which will keep him at the Etihad Stadium until at least 2021.
He told ManCity.com: "I feel really good, I’m happy to be here and happy that it has all worked out. Now I can settle here in Manchester and play for City.
"One of the reasons I decided to join City was Pep Guardiola; he convinced me to come here and that I can continue to progress. I know I will learn a lot under him and now I can take the next step in my career.
“I followed Pep at Barcelona and at Bayern where he achieved a lot and worked really well with young players.
“I think he can make me a more complete player. I think I will need a bit of time to start with because it’s another league and there’s a different style of play but I think I can adapt very quickly.”
Recognised as one of the continent’s brightest young talents, Sane is a fast and technically astute forward-thinking player who can line up on either wing, as a no.10 or as a false nine.
City boss Guardiola, said of the signing: “He is a special talent, and an exciting player that I think our supporters will enjoy watching.
“He has great technical ability, is comfortable on the ball and there is much to admire about the way he plays football. He is fast, enjoys creating chances for others, works hard for the team and scores goals, too. He also has a very positive attitude and will fit in well with our squad.
“At 20, he is still developing as a player but he is already a member of the German national side and I think he will be a fantastic asset to our Club. We are very happy he decided to join us.”
Sane’s meteoric rise to prominence began at Schalke’s “Nachwuchsleistungszentrum” academy where he enjoyed two spells on either side of a three-year stint at Bayer Leverkusen, leading to his professional bow against VfB Stuttgart on 20 April 2014.
That was his sole appearance of the 2013/14 campaign but since, the Essen-born forward has made rapid progress year-on-year, featuring in more Bundesliga matches with each passing season.
2014/15 saw Sane visit City Football Academy for the first time with Schalke’s under-19 selection and he certainly caught the eye in a 1-1 draw with Patrick Vieira’s side in the UEFA Youth League.
Although Schalke went on to lose the Round of 16 tie on penalties, Leroy was one of the standout players in an entertaining match and more high profile first-team opportunities were handed to him as a result.
Undoubtedly his milestone moment in his career so far came when he made his UEFA Champions League debut for Die Königsblauen at the Santiago Bernabeu where Schalke gave Real Madrid a huge scare on 10 March 2015.
Sane scored a brilliant winning goal in an incredible 4-3 victory on the night and, while it wasn’t quite enough to knock out the eventual winners on aggregate, Sane had written his name in lights at the home of the then-ten-time champions.
Last season was undoubtedly Sane’s breakthrough campaign, both in club and national team colours - in all, Leroy made 42 appearances for Schalke, scoring nine goals.
Born to former German rhythmic gymnast champion Regina Weber and former footballer and Senegalese international Souleymane Sané, the 20-year old possesses dual French and German citizenship and opted to represent world champions Germany, making his senior debut on 13 November 2015 - ironically against France.
Sane was called up by Joachim Low for this summer’s Euro 2016 tournament where he won his fourth cap in the semi-final defeat to France.
He joins Ilkay Gundogan, Nolito, Aleks Zinchenko and Aaron Mooy in arriving at the Etihad Stadium in the 2016 summer transfer window.[/article]
[article]Manchester City are delighted to announce the signing of Leroy Sane from Schalke 04.
The German international becomes our fifth signing of summer 2016 and will wear the No.19 shirt.
Sane has signed a five-year deal which will keep him at the Etihad Stadium until at least 2021.
He told ManCity.com: "I feel really good, I’m happy to be here and happy that it has all worked out. Now I can settle here in Manchester and play for City.
"One of the reasons I decided to join City was Pep Guardiola; he convinced me to come here and that I can continue to progress. I know I will learn a lot under him and now I can take the next step in my career.
“I followed Pep at Barcelona and at Bayern where he achieved a lot and worked really well with young players.
“I think he can make me a more complete player. I think I will need a bit of time to start with because it’s another league and there’s a different style of play but I think I can adapt very quickly.”
Recognised as one of the continent’s brightest young talents, Sane is a fast and technically astute forward-thinking player who can line up on either wing, as a no.10 or as a false nine.
City boss Guardiola, said of the signing: “He is a special talent, and an exciting player that I think our supporters will enjoy watching.
“He has great technical ability, is comfortable on the ball and there is much to admire about the way he plays football. He is fast, enjoys creating chances for others, works hard for the team and scores goals, too. He also has a very positive attitude and will fit in well with our squad.
“At 20, he is still developing as a player but he is already a member of the German national side and I think he will be a fantastic asset to our Club. We are very happy he decided to join us.”
Sane’s meteoric rise to prominence began at Schalke’s “Nachwuchsleistungszentrum” academy where he enjoyed two spells on either side of a three-year stint at Bayer Leverkusen, leading to his professional bow against VfB Stuttgart on 20 April 2014.
That was his sole appearance of the 2013/14 campaign but since, the Essen-born forward has made rapid progress year-on-year, featuring in more Bundesliga matches with each passing season.
2014/15 saw Sane visit City Football Academy for the first time with Schalke’s under-19 selection and he certainly caught the eye in a 1-1 draw with Patrick Vieira’s side in the UEFA Youth League.
Although Schalke went on to lose the Round of 16 tie on penalties, Leroy was one of the standout players in an entertaining match and more high profile first-team opportunities were handed to him as a result.
Undoubtedly his milestone moment in his career so far came when he made his UEFA Champions League debut for Die Königsblauen at the Santiago Bernabeu where Schalke gave Real Madrid a huge scare on 10 March 2015.
Sane scored a brilliant winning goal in an incredible 4-3 victory on the night and, while it wasn’t quite enough to knock out the eventual winners on aggregate, Sane had written his name in lights at the home of the then-ten-time champions.
Last season was undoubtedly Sane’s breakthrough campaign, both in club and national team colours - in all, Leroy made 42 appearances for Schalke, scoring nine goals.
Born to former German rhythmic gymnast champion Regina Weber and former footballer and Senegalese international Souleymane Sané, the 20-year old possesses dual French and German citizenship and opted to represent world champions Germany, making his senior debut on 13 November 2015 - ironically against France.
Sane was called up by Joachim Low for this summer’s Euro 2016 tournament where he won his fourth cap in the semi-final defeat to France.
He joins Ilkay Gundogan, Nolito, Aleks Zinchenko and Aaron Mooy in arriving at the Etihad Stadium in the 2016 summer transfer window.[/article]
Idrissa Gana Gueye - Everton (£7.1 million)
[article]Idrissa Gana Gueye has joined Everton on a four-year deal to June 2020.
The Senegal international, 26, completed his move from Aston Villa today, having spent one season with the Midlands club after forging a reputation as one of the finest young midfield players in France.
Gana made 134 appearances for Ligue 1 side Lille, having emerged from the Diambars Academy in Senegal which was founded by Patrick Vieira and other footballers of African heritage.
He made his breakthrough for Lille in 2010, contributed to their Ligue 1 title success in 2011 and established himself as a regular starter over the following four seasons, during which the French side competed in two Champions League campaigns.
His move to the Premier League in July 2015 brought 38 appearances for Villa and, despite his side’s relegation, only Leicester’s Premier League-winning midfield player, N’Golo Kante, made more interceptions and tackles combined across Europe’s top five leagues.
Gana has been capped on 32 occasions by Senegal and represented his country at the 2012 Olympic Games and the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations.
He exclusively told evertontv: “I am very happy to be here at Everton and I am very happy and excited to put on the Blue shirt to start the new season here.
“Everton is a big team with big players and great fans. The manager told me he is very happy to have me here and that we will have time to talk about football after.
“I am a defensive midfield player and I like making passes and also getting forward.
“I have played a season with Aston Villa which was a hard season but I think my style is good for the Premier League. You have to fight every game. All the teams are strong and you have to concentrate all through the game.
“Goodison Park is a very good stadium and the fans are very good, too. They push their team forward and I am excited to play there.”
Everton manager Ronald Koeman said: “Idrissa will provide quality in our squad in the midfield and we want to increase the quality in the team. He was one of the players last season with the best record in interceptions and pressing in the midfield. We need this kind of quality and I’m happy to have him joining our Club.”[/article]
Everton's Kante?
[article]Idrissa Gana Gueye has joined Everton on a four-year deal to June 2020.
The Senegal international, 26, completed his move from Aston Villa today, having spent one season with the Midlands club after forging a reputation as one of the finest young midfield players in France.
Gana made 134 appearances for Ligue 1 side Lille, having emerged from the Diambars Academy in Senegal which was founded by Patrick Vieira and other footballers of African heritage.
He made his breakthrough for Lille in 2010, contributed to their Ligue 1 title success in 2011 and established himself as a regular starter over the following four seasons, during which the French side competed in two Champions League campaigns.
His move to the Premier League in July 2015 brought 38 appearances for Villa and, despite his side’s relegation, only Leicester’s Premier League-winning midfield player, N’Golo Kante, made more interceptions and tackles combined across Europe’s top five leagues.
Gana has been capped on 32 occasions by Senegal and represented his country at the 2012 Olympic Games and the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations.
He exclusively told evertontv: “I am very happy to be here at Everton and I am very happy and excited to put on the Blue shirt to start the new season here.
“Everton is a big team with big players and great fans. The manager told me he is very happy to have me here and that we will have time to talk about football after.
“I am a defensive midfield player and I like making passes and also getting forward.
“I have played a season with Aston Villa which was a hard season but I think my style is good for the Premier League. You have to fight every game. All the teams are strong and you have to concentrate all through the game.
“Goodison Park is a very good stadium and the fans are very good, too. They push their team forward and I am excited to play there.”
Everton manager Ronald Koeman said: “Idrissa will provide quality in our squad in the midfield and we want to increase the quality in the team. He was one of the players last season with the best record in interceptions and pressing in the midfield. We need this kind of quality and I’m happy to have him joining our Club.”[/article]
Everton's Kante?
Idrissa Gana Gueye - Everton (£7.1 million)
[article]Idrissa Gana Gueye has joined Everton on a four-year deal to June 2020.
The Senegal international, 26, completed his move from Aston Villa today, having spent one season with the Midlands club after forging a reputation as one of the finest young midfield players in France.
Gana made 134 appearances for Ligue 1 side Lille, having emerged from the Diambars Academy in Senegal which was founded by Patrick Vieira and other footballers of African heritage.
He made his breakthrough for Lille in 2010, contributed to their Ligue 1 title success in 2011 and established himself as a regular starter over the following four seasons, during which the French side competed in two Champions League campaigns.
His move to the Premier League in July 2015 brought 38 appearances for Villa and, despite his side’s relegation, only Leicester’s Premier League-winning midfield player, N’Golo Kante, made more interceptions and tackles combined across Europe’s top five leagues.
Gana has been capped on 32 occasions by Senegal and represented his country at the 2012 Olympic Games and the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations.
He exclusively told evertontv: “I am very happy to be here at Everton and I am very happy and excited to put on the Blue shirt to start the new season here.
“Everton is a big team with big players and great fans. The manager told me he is very happy to have me here and that we will have time to talk about football after.
“I am a defensive midfield player and I like making passes and also getting forward.
“I have played a season with Aston Villa which was a hard season but I think my style is good for the Premier League. You have to fight every game. All the teams are strong and you have to concentrate all through the game.
“Goodison Park is a very good stadium and the fans are very good, too. They push their team forward and I am excited to play there.”
Everton manager Ronald Koeman said: “Idrissa will provide quality in our squad in the midfield and we want to increase the quality in the team. He was one of the players last season with the best record in interceptions and pressing in the midfield. We need this kind of quality and I’m happy to have him joining our Club.”[/article]
Everton's Kante?
No, he proved for Villa he was pretty ordinary.
Roberto Soriano - Villarreal (reportedly €14 million)
[article]The Italian midfielder has joined the 'Yellow Submarine' on a five-year deal. Villarreal have paid Sampdoria 14 million euros in the transaction.
The Castellón-based club announced the news on Tuesday evening - Roberto Soriano is officially a Villarreal player after signing a five-year contract with the club. The 25-year-old midfielder was able to join his new team mates for the late training session and will be presented tomorrow at 20:30 hours. Soriano joins from Sampdoria with the deal being completed for around 14 million euros.
Villarreal have set a new club transfer record in bringing Soriano on board - his transfer fee eclipses the 10 million they paid Internacional de Porto Alegre for Brazilian striker Nilmar seven years ago. Soriano's versatility is what convinced Marcelino - the midfielder can fit into any of the central positions although at the Madrigal, he is expected to be played out wide on the right. He becomes the club's sixth signing of the summer, following Denis Cheryshev, Alfred N'Diaye, José Ángel, Alexandre Pato and Andrés Fernández.[/article]
[article]The Italian midfielder has joined the 'Yellow Submarine' on a five-year deal. Villarreal have paid Sampdoria 14 million euros in the transaction.
The Castellón-based club announced the news on Tuesday evening - Roberto Soriano is officially a Villarreal player after signing a five-year contract with the club. The 25-year-old midfielder was able to join his new team mates for the late training session and will be presented tomorrow at 20:30 hours. Soriano joins from Sampdoria with the deal being completed for around 14 million euros.
Villarreal have set a new club transfer record in bringing Soriano on board - his transfer fee eclipses the 10 million they paid Internacional de Porto Alegre for Brazilian striker Nilmar seven years ago. Soriano's versatility is what convinced Marcelino - the midfielder can fit into any of the central positions although at the Madrigal, he is expected to be played out wide on the right. He becomes the club's sixth signing of the summer, following Denis Cheryshev, Alfred N'Diaye, José Ángel, Alexandre Pato and Andrés Fernández.[/article]
http://en.as.com/en/2016/08/02/football/1470124712_156501.html
[article]With just under three weeks ahead of the 2016/17 season getting under way, Atlético Madrid are the biggest spending side of the LaLiga Santander with 81 million euro having been allocated on the acquisition of new signings. Sources at the Calderón admit that the Gamiero signing is probably the last spending of the campaign and the task ahead for the club's sporting director is to balance books by selling players.
To date Atlético have banked 3,5 million for the sale of Leo Baptistao (Espanyol), 3 million for Guilavogui (Wolfsburg) and a further 3 for the Vietto and 1.5 for Kranevitter for their respective loan deals with Sevilla. An additional 11 million were secured as part of the Jackson Martinez move to China and the need is for the club to keep selling.
Borja, Manquillo and Óliver are the three young players that are in the "shop window" and the club would also consider offers for squad players such as Velázquez, Mensah, Diogo and Borré who Cholo sees as superfluous to his core squad needs.
Summer transfer market 16-17
Atlético 81
Barcelona 80
Sevilla 55,8
R. Madrid 30
Villarreal 22
Betis 20
R. Sociedad 11,3
Valencia 9,5
Celta 8
Espanyol 7,7
Málaga 6
Deportivo 5,7
Eibar 5
Leganés 1
Sporting 0,6
Alavés 0,5
Athletic 0
Granada 0
Osasuna 0
Las Palmas 0
Summer transfer market 15-16
Valencia 137
Atlético 126
R. Madrid 88,9
Barcelona 58
Villarreal 46,2
R. Sociedad 30,1
Sevilla 29
Athletic 10
Celta 8,3
Betis 7,6
Málaga 5,9
Las Palmas 3,4
Levante 2,8
Granada 2,7
Espanyol 1,5
Deportivo 0,5
Eibar 0,3
Rayo 0,1
Getafe 0
Sporting 0[/article]
[article]With just under three weeks ahead of the 2016/17 season getting under way, Atlético Madrid are the biggest spending side of the LaLiga Santander with 81 million euro having been allocated on the acquisition of new signings. Sources at the Calderón admit that the Gamiero signing is probably the last spending of the campaign and the task ahead for the club's sporting director is to balance books by selling players.
To date Atlético have banked 3,5 million for the sale of Leo Baptistao (Espanyol), 3 million for Guilavogui (Wolfsburg) and a further 3 for the Vietto and 1.5 for Kranevitter for their respective loan deals with Sevilla. An additional 11 million were secured as part of the Jackson Martinez move to China and the need is for the club to keep selling.
Borja, Manquillo and Óliver are the three young players that are in the "shop window" and the club would also consider offers for squad players such as Velázquez, Mensah, Diogo and Borré who Cholo sees as superfluous to his core squad needs.
Summer transfer market 16-17
Atlético 81
Barcelona 80
Sevilla 55,8
R. Madrid 30
Villarreal 22
Betis 20
R. Sociedad 11,3
Valencia 9,5
Celta 8
Espanyol 7,7
Málaga 6
Deportivo 5,7
Eibar 5
Leganés 1
Sporting 0,6
Alavés 0,5
Athletic 0
Granada 0
Osasuna 0
Las Palmas 0
Summer transfer market 15-16
Valencia 137
Atlético 126
R. Madrid 88,9
Barcelona 58
Villarreal 46,2
R. Sociedad 30,1
Sevilla 29
Athletic 10
Celta 8,3
Betis 7,6
Málaga 5,9
Las Palmas 3,4
Levante 2,8
Granada 2,7
Espanyol 1,5
Deportivo 0,5
Eibar 0,3
Rayo 0,1
Getafe 0
Sporting 0[/article]
Arkadiusz Milik - Napoli (€31 million plus add ons up to €4 million)
[article]Napoli have officially confirmed that Arkadiusz Milik has joined the club from Ajax.
The Polish international had already been pictured undergoing a medical, holding a Partenopei shirt and has been welcomed to San Paolo by President Aurelio De Laurentiis during a presentation at the club’s stadium.
However, an official announcement confirming the €35m transfer had gone through did not come until Tuesday afternoon.
“SSCN communicates that it has signed the sporting rights of the player Arkadiusz Milik from Ajax,” a statement on the Napoli website reads.
The 22-year-old will wear the number 99 shirt as the Azzurri look to replace Gonzalo Higuain.[/article]
[article]Arkadiusz Milik’s agent has confirmed that Napoli are paying Ajax a total of €35m for his client.
It was widely reported that the fee being paid by the Partenopei for the Polish international was closer to €25m.
However, in an interview with Transfermarkt, David Pantak revealed that Aurelio De Laurentiis will in fact be paying up to an additional €10m.
“The fee agreed to by De Laurentiis to secure the signing of the 22-year-old Pole, who has arrived from Ajax, is €31m plus €4m of eventual bonuses, coming to a total of €35m,” Pantak is quoted as saying.[/article]
Bleacher Report UKVerified account @br_uk
Arkadiusz Milik becomes#Ajax’s most lucrative sale
, and joins good company in the process.
[article]Napoli have officially confirmed that Arkadiusz Milik has joined the club from Ajax.
The Polish international had already been pictured undergoing a medical, holding a Partenopei shirt and has been welcomed to San Paolo by President Aurelio De Laurentiis during a presentation at the club’s stadium.
However, an official announcement confirming the €35m transfer had gone through did not come until Tuesday afternoon.
“SSCN communicates that it has signed the sporting rights of the player Arkadiusz Milik from Ajax,” a statement on the Napoli website reads.
The 22-year-old will wear the number 99 shirt as the Azzurri look to replace Gonzalo Higuain.[/article]
[article]Arkadiusz Milik’s agent has confirmed that Napoli are paying Ajax a total of €35m for his client.
It was widely reported that the fee being paid by the Partenopei for the Polish international was closer to €25m.
However, in an interview with Transfermarkt, David Pantak revealed that Aurelio De Laurentiis will in fact be paying up to an additional €10m.
“The fee agreed to by De Laurentiis to secure the signing of the 22-year-old Pole, who has arrived from Ajax, is €31m plus €4m of eventual bonuses, coming to a total of €35m,” Pantak is quoted as saying.[/article]
Bleacher Report UKVerified account
Arkadiusz Milik becomes
Max Kruse - Werder Bremen (reportedly €6 million with add ons up to €3 million)
[article]Werder Bremen unveiled the signing of German striker Max Kruse on Tuesday.
Kruse, 28, who played for Bremen between 2006 and 2009, penned a permanent deal for a base fee of €6 million that can extend to €9 million with bonuses, according to Bild.
"We are very happy that Max returns to Bremen with full conviction," said general manager Frank Baumann on the club's official website.
Kruse made his Bundesliga debut for Werder Bremen in 2007 against Arminia Bielefeld, which remained his only German top-flight appearance until 2010.
Baumann added: "He is a player that took a stellar development in recent years. He proved his qualities on the highest level for club and country."
The attacker went on to play for St. Pauli, SC Freiburg and Borussia Monchengladbach in the meantime.
He scored nine and assisted 12 goals in 43 games across competition for the Wolves in the past season. However, his time in a Wolfsburg shirt only lasted one year.
In 2015, Kruse penned a four-year-deal at Wolfsburg, arriving from Borussia Monchengladbach for €12 million.
"Max can be utilised on various positions in attack and opens up a lot of options in our game. We followed his preseason so far and are confident that he can show his presence on the field from the outset," said Bremen coach Viktor Skripnik on his new player.
Werder Bremen had a vacancy in the striking department after selling their first-choice centre-forward Anthony Ujah, 25, to Chinese Super League side Liaoning FC for €11.5 million this summer.
Kruse, who can fill Ujah's spot at the Weserstadion, is looking for a fresh start at his new club. He caught the attention of the headlines due to off-field misconduct.
The player said on his transfer: "The football is the centre of my life and I find the right conditions to reinvigorate my career in Bremen."
"I played my first Bundesliga match for the club. Now I want to play my part and help this club back to old strength. I'm elated that this transfer was realised and I will give my all for this club and my team," said Kruse.
The German international, who has 14 call-ups, was dropped from the Germany squad by Joachim Low and received a telling off by Wolfsburg earlier this year.[/article]
[article]Werder Bremen unveiled the signing of German striker Max Kruse on Tuesday.
Kruse, 28, who played for Bremen between 2006 and 2009, penned a permanent deal for a base fee of €6 million that can extend to €9 million with bonuses, according to Bild.
"We are very happy that Max returns to Bremen with full conviction," said general manager Frank Baumann on the club's official website.
Kruse made his Bundesliga debut for Werder Bremen in 2007 against Arminia Bielefeld, which remained his only German top-flight appearance until 2010.
Baumann added: "He is a player that took a stellar development in recent years. He proved his qualities on the highest level for club and country."
The attacker went on to play for St. Pauli, SC Freiburg and Borussia Monchengladbach in the meantime.
He scored nine and assisted 12 goals in 43 games across competition for the Wolves in the past season. However, his time in a Wolfsburg shirt only lasted one year.
In 2015, Kruse penned a four-year-deal at Wolfsburg, arriving from Borussia Monchengladbach for €12 million.
"Max can be utilised on various positions in attack and opens up a lot of options in our game. We followed his preseason so far and are confident that he can show his presence on the field from the outset," said Bremen coach Viktor Skripnik on his new player.
Werder Bremen had a vacancy in the striking department after selling their first-choice centre-forward Anthony Ujah, 25, to Chinese Super League side Liaoning FC for €11.5 million this summer.
Kruse, who can fill Ujah's spot at the Weserstadion, is looking for a fresh start at his new club. He caught the attention of the headlines due to off-field misconduct.
The player said on his transfer: "The football is the centre of my life and I find the right conditions to reinvigorate my career in Bremen."
"I played my first Bundesliga match for the club. Now I want to play my part and help this club back to old strength. I'm elated that this transfer was realised and I will give my all for this club and my team," said Kruse.
The German international, who has 14 call-ups, was dropped from the Germany squad by Joachim Low and received a telling off by Wolfsburg earlier this year.[/article]
Ogenyi Onazi - Trabzonspor (reportedly €5 million)
[article]Ogenyi Onazi, Super Eagles midfielder, has signed a four-year deal with Turkish team, Trabzonspor FC from Italian side, Lazio.
The contract is reportedly worth the sum of 5 million Euros.
Eddy, as he is fondly called, took to his Instagram page to show gratitude to fans of his former club Lazio FC.
“When it all started five years ago. Big thanks to all the great Lazio fans who stood by me when the time was rough and when we all smile,” he said.
“God bless you all. I will always be praying for you all.
“I am happy to have signed for Trabzonspor. I am ready to give my best always and with my new club, it won’t be an exception,” he said.
Onazi joined Lazio FC of Italy in 2012 and scored four goals in 76 games.
He also debuted for the Super Eagles in 2012 and played 38 times as a regular member of the team, playing all the games of the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
He was a regular fixture from the national U-17 and Under-20 teams before being invited to the national team where he became a key player in the 2013 African Cup of Nations championship win.[/article]
Was once widely linked with some big clubs. Seems like his career hasn't taken off as expected.
[article]Ogenyi Onazi, Super Eagles midfielder, has signed a four-year deal with Turkish team, Trabzonspor FC from Italian side, Lazio.
The contract is reportedly worth the sum of 5 million Euros.
Eddy, as he is fondly called, took to his Instagram page to show gratitude to fans of his former club Lazio FC.
“When it all started five years ago. Big thanks to all the great Lazio fans who stood by me when the time was rough and when we all smile,” he said.
“God bless you all. I will always be praying for you all.
“I am happy to have signed for Trabzonspor. I am ready to give my best always and with my new club, it won’t be an exception,” he said.
Onazi joined Lazio FC of Italy in 2012 and scored four goals in 76 games.
He also debuted for the Super Eagles in 2012 and played 38 times as a regular member of the team, playing all the games of the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
He was a regular fixture from the national U-17 and Under-20 teams before being invited to the national team where he became a key player in the 2013 African Cup of Nations championship win.[/article]
Was once widely linked with some big clubs. Seems like his career hasn't taken off as expected.
Joao Teixeira - Wolves (loan)
[article]Joao Teixeira becomes Wolves' latest addition as the winger joins on season-long loan from Primeira Liga side, Benfica.
Teixeira has come through the ranks at Benfica, playing for their ‘B’ team before making his first team debut in the Champions League fixture against Bayern Leverkusen in December, 2014.
Now signed up to a long term contract, he spent a spell on loan with Vitora de Guimaraes last season.
He has represented Portugal through the junior ranks up to and including Under-21 level, making 30 appearances in total across the various age groups.
Discussing the 22-year-old, Head of Football Development and Recruitment, Kevin Thelwell said: "He's a really exciting player. He's a strong, highly technical young player.
"He's played a lot at Benfica B and he's also had loan experience with a professional team in Portugal's first division.
"If you're talking about youth development, and who are the very best, then Benfica will be right up there.
"They have a fantastic track record of developing young players and players succeeding, not only with them, but all over the world.
"We think Joao can play in a number of positions and we think he can really improve our group.
"I think it's a bit of a coup for us to get him and I think he will integrate into the group really quickly once he picks up a bit more of the language.
"He's a very bright boy, he's enthusiastic and I'm really looking forward to seeing him perform."
Football at Championship level comes with a tough reputation but Thelwell believes that Portuguese star will be able to adapt.
"I think there will be a case of some adaptation because the Championship is so different to every other league, there's a lot of pace and there's a lot of power," he explained.
"The one thing you can guarantee is, if you've got good players and they've got a high technical ability, then they should be able to cope in the league.
"I'm sure we'll have to be careful with him in the first instance and we may have to protect him in certain games but I think he's got all of the tools to be a success at this level." [/article]
Jon Dadi Bodvarsson - Wolves (reportedly £2.7 million)
[article]Jon Dadi Bodvarsson joins Wolves on a three-year deal from FC Kaiserslautern for an undisclosed fee.
Speaking after arriving at Molineux, Bodvarsson said: "It's a club with great ambition, a good history and fantastic facilities so, when that all fits in, then it's an easy decision and I'm really, really happy.
"There's been a lot of dialogue between Wolves and Kaiserslautern, so obviously it's been a little chaotic, but the clubs have come to agreement and now I can't wait to start.
"I grew up watching the Premier League and the Championship. English football is very popular in Iceland so it's been a great ambition of mine to play in English football.
"I like the style of play and there's something about the football that's always attracted me.
"Wolves is a club that I've always known about, I remember watching them in the Premier League.
"I know what kind of club Wolves is, it's a really attractive club with great and high ambitions.
"They want to be at the top level, I know it will take time but hopefully we can get there as soon as possible."
Jon Dadi Bodvarsson was one of the key figures in Iceland’s impressive run in this summer’s European Championships in France.
He started all five of Iceland’s fixtures, including the win against England, and scored the opening goal in the group victory against Austria.
"It was unbelievable. We managed to surprise a lot of people as well as ourselves. I'm just really grateful for having that experience," he said.
"Not every player gets that opportunity in his career and to go that far was unbelievable."
In total he boasts 25 caps having come through the ranks for Iceland’s Under-19s and Under-21s.
He began his club career with UMF Selfoss in the Icelandic League before joining Viking FK in the Tippeligaen – the top division in Norway - in 2013.
From there he joined Kaiserslautern in Bundesliga 2.
In his career so far he has notched 27 goals from 139 games, and his physique and 6ft 3in frame allows him to be an effective foil for those players around him. [/article]
[article]Joao Teixeira becomes Wolves' latest addition as the winger joins on season-long loan from Primeira Liga side, Benfica.
Teixeira has come through the ranks at Benfica, playing for their ‘B’ team before making his first team debut in the Champions League fixture against Bayern Leverkusen in December, 2014.
Now signed up to a long term contract, he spent a spell on loan with Vitora de Guimaraes last season.
He has represented Portugal through the junior ranks up to and including Under-21 level, making 30 appearances in total across the various age groups.
Discussing the 22-year-old, Head of Football Development and Recruitment, Kevin Thelwell said: "He's a really exciting player. He's a strong, highly technical young player.
"He's played a lot at Benfica B and he's also had loan experience with a professional team in Portugal's first division.
"If you're talking about youth development, and who are the very best, then Benfica will be right up there.
"They have a fantastic track record of developing young players and players succeeding, not only with them, but all over the world.
"We think Joao can play in a number of positions and we think he can really improve our group.
"I think it's a bit of a coup for us to get him and I think he will integrate into the group really quickly once he picks up a bit more of the language.
"He's a very bright boy, he's enthusiastic and I'm really looking forward to seeing him perform."
Football at Championship level comes with a tough reputation but Thelwell believes that Portuguese star will be able to adapt.
"I think there will be a case of some adaptation because the Championship is so different to every other league, there's a lot of pace and there's a lot of power," he explained.
"The one thing you can guarantee is, if you've got good players and they've got a high technical ability, then they should be able to cope in the league.
"I'm sure we'll have to be careful with him in the first instance and we may have to protect him in certain games but I think he's got all of the tools to be a success at this level." [/article]
Jon Dadi Bodvarsson - Wolves (reportedly £2.7 million)
[article]Jon Dadi Bodvarsson joins Wolves on a three-year deal from FC Kaiserslautern for an undisclosed fee.
Speaking after arriving at Molineux, Bodvarsson said: "It's a club with great ambition, a good history and fantastic facilities so, when that all fits in, then it's an easy decision and I'm really, really happy.
"There's been a lot of dialogue between Wolves and Kaiserslautern, so obviously it's been a little chaotic, but the clubs have come to agreement and now I can't wait to start.
"I grew up watching the Premier League and the Championship. English football is very popular in Iceland so it's been a great ambition of mine to play in English football.
"I like the style of play and there's something about the football that's always attracted me.
"Wolves is a club that I've always known about, I remember watching them in the Premier League.
"I know what kind of club Wolves is, it's a really attractive club with great and high ambitions.
"They want to be at the top level, I know it will take time but hopefully we can get there as soon as possible."
Jon Dadi Bodvarsson was one of the key figures in Iceland’s impressive run in this summer’s European Championships in France.
He started all five of Iceland’s fixtures, including the win against England, and scored the opening goal in the group victory against Austria.
"It was unbelievable. We managed to surprise a lot of people as well as ourselves. I'm just really grateful for having that experience," he said.
"Not every player gets that opportunity in his career and to go that far was unbelievable."
In total he boasts 25 caps having come through the ranks for Iceland’s Under-19s and Under-21s.
He began his club career with UMF Selfoss in the Icelandic League before joining Viking FK in the Tippeligaen – the top division in Norway - in 2013.
From there he joined Kaiserslautern in Bundesliga 2.
In his career so far he has notched 27 goals from 139 games, and his physique and 6ft 3in frame allows him to be an effective foil for those players around him. [/article]
Chuks Aneke - MK Dons (free transfer)
[article]MK Dons have signed former Arsenal attacking midfielder Chuks Aneke.
Aneke, 23, has put pen-to-paper on a one-year deal at Stadium MK, with the option of a further 12 months.
The 6ft 3in playmaker has scored 25 goals in 87 career league starts for clubs such as the Gunners, Stevenage, Preston North End, Crewe Alexandra and, more recently, Belgium top-division outfit Waregem, whom he left this summer.
He also enjoyed plenty of success in Sky Bet League One, and in his last season in the division for Crewe he netted 14 times and provided six assists.
Speaking to MK Dons PlayerHD, the new recruit said: “I’ve known about this Club, the manager and the staff for a long time, so I’m delighted to be here.
“I’m happy to be at the Club and hopefully I can bring some of what I can do into the team.”
Aneke arrives in Milton Keynes currently undergoing a rehabilitation period but the former England youth international is confident of a full and quick recovery.
“I’m on the other side of my injury now, so I’m looking forward to completing my rehab and playing some games – I feel like I’ve got a lot to prove.”
Head of Sports Medicine Simon Crampton added: “Chuks had a successful routine knee operation last season and has been rehabbing in Belgium.
“He hasn’t reached full fitness yet but he will now come under our care as we aim to get him in the best possible shape for action.
Manager Karl Robinson is looking forward to working with the forward: “Chuks is someone we’ve known about for a very long time. He’s a very talented player and I’m excited to work with him.
“While he isn’t ready for match action just yet, we didn’t want to miss out on bringing him to the Football Club. Also, with the abolition of emergency and youth loans outside of the transfer window, we are limited to what we can do during the season.
“We wanted to have Chuks here at the Club now so we can take control of his rehab and he can be around his new teammates.”[/article]
Declan Rudd - Charlton (loan)
[article]Charlton Athletic are delighted to confirm the signing of goalkeeper Declan Rudd on a one-year loan deal from Norwich City.
The 25-year-old stopper, who has racked up over 100 professional appearances, played 11 times in the Premier League last season and becomes Manager Russell Slade’s fifth signing of the summer.
Slade said: “We have been patient in waiting for our number one target and we are delighted that our patience has been rewarded. We feel like we have got a top goalkeeper in Declan and he was so enthusiastic and could not wait to get started today. That is what he is all about. He is a very efficient, all-round goalkeeper; his kicking his good, he manages his box well and he is a very good shot stopper. We are very pleased to have him.”
Rudd said: “It’s brilliant to have the move sorted and I am really happy to be down here and part of the squad. As soon as a got the call about the possibility about coming to Charlton it was a no brainer for me. This is huge club with great history and facilities, and we have a great manager and staff here and hopefully we can achieve our goal this season which is, of course, to bounce straight back up to the Championship.”
Born in Diss, Norfolk, Rudd began his career with Norwich and signed his first professional contract in the summer of 2008.
The following season he played a key role in their academy’s run in the FA Youth Cup – saving three penalties in their fifth-round victory against Everton – with his first-team debut coming in 2009.
Rudd, capped by England at U16, U17, U19, U20 and U21 level, made his full Premier League bow against West Bromwich Albion in September 2011 – where he also saved a penalty - and he then embarked on two separate loan stints at Preston North End.
While with the Lilywhites, he played 46 matches as they reached the League One play-offs in 2013/14 and, last-term, he made a number of first-team appearances in the top flight with parent club Norwich.[/article]
Abdul Rahman Baba - SChalke (loan)
[article]FC Schalke 04 are pleased to announce their latest signing. Abdul Rahman Baba, who passed his medical with the club on Sunday, has joined the Royal Blues on a season-long loan from Premier League side Chelsea. The left back will wear the number 14 throughout the campaign.
“Abdul is a strong attacking left back, one who I have a lot of faith in. He will fit in well here because of his excellent attitude,” explained Markus Weinzierl, who has already worked with him at FC Augsburg.
The 22-year-old spent the 2014/15 season with FCA, following a stint with SpVgg Greuther Fürth. He has played 51 Bundesliga games to date (0 goals), in addition to 24 second-tier matches (2 goals).
In August 2015 he signed a five-year deal with Chelsea. Last season he made 15 Premier League appearances for the Blues. He also featured twice in the FA Cup and four times in the Champions League.
His career started in 2004 with the Young Meteors Tamale, before spells with Dreamz FC (2010-2011) and Asante Kotoko (2011-2012), with whom he won Ghana’s national title in 2012. He was part of the Ghana side that reached the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations final, however, they missed out on the title, losing to Ivory Coast on penalties.[/article]
3 new additions to the back four for Schalke with Baba, Naldo and Coke.
[article]MK Dons have signed former Arsenal attacking midfielder Chuks Aneke.
Aneke, 23, has put pen-to-paper on a one-year deal at Stadium MK, with the option of a further 12 months.
The 6ft 3in playmaker has scored 25 goals in 87 career league starts for clubs such as the Gunners, Stevenage, Preston North End, Crewe Alexandra and, more recently, Belgium top-division outfit Waregem, whom he left this summer.
He also enjoyed plenty of success in Sky Bet League One, and in his last season in the division for Crewe he netted 14 times and provided six assists.
Speaking to MK Dons PlayerHD, the new recruit said: “I’ve known about this Club, the manager and the staff for a long time, so I’m delighted to be here.
“I’m happy to be at the Club and hopefully I can bring some of what I can do into the team.”
Aneke arrives in Milton Keynes currently undergoing a rehabilitation period but the former England youth international is confident of a full and quick recovery.
“I’m on the other side of my injury now, so I’m looking forward to completing my rehab and playing some games – I feel like I’ve got a lot to prove.”
Head of Sports Medicine Simon Crampton added: “Chuks had a successful routine knee operation last season and has been rehabbing in Belgium.
“He hasn’t reached full fitness yet but he will now come under our care as we aim to get him in the best possible shape for action.
Manager Karl Robinson is looking forward to working with the forward: “Chuks is someone we’ve known about for a very long time. He’s a very talented player and I’m excited to work with him.
“While he isn’t ready for match action just yet, we didn’t want to miss out on bringing him to the Football Club. Also, with the abolition of emergency and youth loans outside of the transfer window, we are limited to what we can do during the season.
“We wanted to have Chuks here at the Club now so we can take control of his rehab and he can be around his new teammates.”[/article]
Declan Rudd - Charlton (loan)
[article]Charlton Athletic are delighted to confirm the signing of goalkeeper Declan Rudd on a one-year loan deal from Norwich City.
The 25-year-old stopper, who has racked up over 100 professional appearances, played 11 times in the Premier League last season and becomes Manager Russell Slade’s fifth signing of the summer.
Slade said: “We have been patient in waiting for our number one target and we are delighted that our patience has been rewarded. We feel like we have got a top goalkeeper in Declan and he was so enthusiastic and could not wait to get started today. That is what he is all about. He is a very efficient, all-round goalkeeper; his kicking his good, he manages his box well and he is a very good shot stopper. We are very pleased to have him.”
Rudd said: “It’s brilliant to have the move sorted and I am really happy to be down here and part of the squad. As soon as a got the call about the possibility about coming to Charlton it was a no brainer for me. This is huge club with great history and facilities, and we have a great manager and staff here and hopefully we can achieve our goal this season which is, of course, to bounce straight back up to the Championship.”
Born in Diss, Norfolk, Rudd began his career with Norwich and signed his first professional contract in the summer of 2008.
The following season he played a key role in their academy’s run in the FA Youth Cup – saving three penalties in their fifth-round victory against Everton – with his first-team debut coming in 2009.
Rudd, capped by England at U16, U17, U19, U20 and U21 level, made his full Premier League bow against West Bromwich Albion in September 2011 – where he also saved a penalty - and he then embarked on two separate loan stints at Preston North End.
While with the Lilywhites, he played 46 matches as they reached the League One play-offs in 2013/14 and, last-term, he made a number of first-team appearances in the top flight with parent club Norwich.[/article]
Abdul Rahman Baba - SChalke (loan)
[article]FC Schalke 04 are pleased to announce their latest signing. Abdul Rahman Baba, who passed his medical with the club on Sunday, has joined the Royal Blues on a season-long loan from Premier League side Chelsea. The left back will wear the number 14 throughout the campaign.
“Abdul is a strong attacking left back, one who I have a lot of faith in. He will fit in well here because of his excellent attitude,” explained Markus Weinzierl, who has already worked with him at FC Augsburg.
The 22-year-old spent the 2014/15 season with FCA, following a stint with SpVgg Greuther Fürth. He has played 51 Bundesliga games to date (0 goals), in addition to 24 second-tier matches (2 goals).
In August 2015 he signed a five-year deal with Chelsea. Last season he made 15 Premier League appearances for the Blues. He also featured twice in the FA Cup and four times in the Champions League.
His career started in 2004 with the Young Meteors Tamale, before spells with Dreamz FC (2010-2011) and Asante Kotoko (2011-2012), with whom he won Ghana’s national title in 2012. He was part of the Ghana side that reached the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations final, however, they missed out on the title, losing to Ivory Coast on penalties.[/article]
3 new additions to the back four for Schalke with Baba, Naldo and Coke.
- Status
