Confirmed Transfers (2016/17)
- Thread starter King Binny
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Arab oil money has had no effect on the transfer market at all.
If you look at City's side, they could field the most expensively assembled team ever seen, surely?
Sterling, De Bruyne, Aguero, Bony, Stones, Otamendi, Mangala, Sane, Gundogan, Nolito...that's about £350,000 right there
If you look at City's side, they could field the most expensively assembled team ever seen, surely?
Sterling, De Bruyne, Aguero, Bony, Stones, Otamendi, Mangala, Sane, Gundogan, Nolito...that's about £350,000 right there
Look at the names on the list. 😵
The only played that warrented the price at the time was probably Hummels.
Before the John Stones deal:
I wonder if this player will be the next one to leave Everton for a ridiculous fee?
"I wouldn’t sell him for any money in the current market. The value that you can give to him… in our football club you can really see the value that he has, the effect he has on other players. Being English is an incredible, incredible premium and I want to see him go from strength to strength because I know there is so much more to come from him.
You saw the delivery, the work rate. I think we have ten goals a season to get into his game very quickly. And I think he can go even further.
I don’t think you can have a better English player with the ability and the experience and the tough lessons that he has had to go through.
Technically as good as you are going to get. Probably his football understanding as good as you are going to get and that showed today.
The way he executes, the way that he reads the game, the way he gives you a platform for the ball"
Yes, Tom Cleverly.
"I wouldn’t sell him for any money in the current market. The value that you can give to him… in our football club you can really see the value that he has, the effect he has on other players. Being English is an incredible, incredible premium and I want to see him go from strength to strength because I know there is so much more to come from him.
You saw the delivery, the work rate. I think we have ten goals a season to get into his game very quickly. And I think he can go even further.
I don’t think you can have a better English player with the ability and the experience and the tough lessons that he has had to go through.
Technically as good as you are going to get. Probably his football understanding as good as you are going to get and that showed today.
The way he executes, the way that he reads the game, the way he gives you a platform for the ball"
Yes, Tom Cleverly.
Piotr Zielinski - Napoli (reportedly €15 million)
Those heavy cotton Polo Ralph Lauren shirts are notoriously hard to iron.
Poor choice really given Piotr must have known the photos would be taken.
Mauricio Isla - Cagliari (€4 million)
[article]Cagliari have officially confirmed the signing of Juventus wing-back Mauricio Isla for €4m.
The Chilean international arrived in Sardinia yesterday, having already taken his medical at Rome’s Villa Stuart.
“Mauricio Isla is Rossoblu,” the Isolani confirmed in a statement on their official website.
“The player, who recently won the Copa America with Chile, has moved to Cagliari outright, signing a contract which will tie him to the club for the next three seasons.
“‘El Huaso’ as he’s known by fans is ready for a new adventure in Serie A. He has chosen his favourite shirt number: 3.”
Isla joined Juventus from Udinese in 2012, but failed to hold down a place in the team and spent the last two seasons on loan with Queens Park Rangers and Marseille respectively.
The wing-back’s contract is worth around €900,00 per season.
Juventus released a statement confirming the financial details of the operation.
“The Chilean defender’s registration rights have been acquired for a fee of €4 million, to be paid in three financial years, generating a positive economic effect of approximately €0.7 million.”[/article]
Rafael van der Vaart - FC Midtjylland (free transfer)
[article]Former Real Madrid and Tottenham midfielder Rafael van der Vaart has signed for Danish Superliga side FC Midtjylland on a two-year contract the club have confirmed.
Van der Vaart, 33, had been without a club since leaving Real Betis at the end of last season and spent the summer working with a personal trainer in Amsterdam.
The former Netherlands international had been in the crowd alongside his agent to watch Midtjylland qualifying for the Europa League.
Of the move Van der Vaart said: "I visited the stadium for a game and I was quite impressed with the coach and I knew I wanted to play here, so I'm happy to be here.
"It's a young club with a lot of young players and a great academy. I'm a little bit older so I hope I can help them with my experience. I think it's a perfect match."
He had been linked with a move to Championship side Reading, where his former international teammate Jaap Stam is manager.
But Stam played down the move, saying: "I can tell you that he phoned us about wanting to play for us... We're thinking about him of course. He is in our minds, he's a quality player but he's got a history of injuries so we have think about that as well."[/article]
Carlos Sanchez - Fiorentina (loan for €500k with mandatory option to buy)
[article]Fiorentina have officially signed Colombia international Carlos Sanchez on loan from Aston Villa.
The Viola released a statement this evening confirming they have finalised details for the 30-year-old midfielder.
According to Sky Sport Italia, the loan deal costs €0.5m and Fiorentina have an option to buy that becomes mandatory if he plays 50 per cent of their matches this season.
Full name Carlos Alberto Sanchez Moreno, he has 67 senior caps for Colombia.
Before Aston Villa he played for Danubio, River Plate, Valenciennes and Elche.[/article]
[article]Cagliari have officially confirmed the signing of Juventus wing-back Mauricio Isla for €4m.
The Chilean international arrived in Sardinia yesterday, having already taken his medical at Rome’s Villa Stuart.
“Mauricio Isla is Rossoblu,” the Isolani confirmed in a statement on their official website.
“The player, who recently won the Copa America with Chile, has moved to Cagliari outright, signing a contract which will tie him to the club for the next three seasons.
“‘El Huaso’ as he’s known by fans is ready for a new adventure in Serie A. He has chosen his favourite shirt number: 3.”
Isla joined Juventus from Udinese in 2012, but failed to hold down a place in the team and spent the last two seasons on loan with Queens Park Rangers and Marseille respectively.
The wing-back’s contract is worth around €900,00 per season.
Juventus released a statement confirming the financial details of the operation.
“The Chilean defender’s registration rights have been acquired for a fee of €4 million, to be paid in three financial years, generating a positive economic effect of approximately €0.7 million.”[/article]
Rafael van der Vaart - FC Midtjylland (free transfer)
[article]Former Real Madrid and Tottenham midfielder Rafael van der Vaart has signed for Danish Superliga side FC Midtjylland on a two-year contract the club have confirmed.
Van der Vaart, 33, had been without a club since leaving Real Betis at the end of last season and spent the summer working with a personal trainer in Amsterdam.
The former Netherlands international had been in the crowd alongside his agent to watch Midtjylland qualifying for the Europa League.
Of the move Van der Vaart said: "I visited the stadium for a game and I was quite impressed with the coach and I knew I wanted to play here, so I'm happy to be here.
"It's a young club with a lot of young players and a great academy. I'm a little bit older so I hope I can help them with my experience. I think it's a perfect match."
He had been linked with a move to Championship side Reading, where his former international teammate Jaap Stam is manager.
But Stam played down the move, saying: "I can tell you that he phoned us about wanting to play for us... We're thinking about him of course. He is in our minds, he's a quality player but he's got a history of injuries so we have think about that as well."[/article]
Carlos Sanchez - Fiorentina (loan for €500k with mandatory option to buy)
[article]Fiorentina have officially signed Colombia international Carlos Sanchez on loan from Aston Villa.
The Viola released a statement this evening confirming they have finalised details for the 30-year-old midfielder.
According to Sky Sport Italia, the loan deal costs €0.5m and Fiorentina have an option to buy that becomes mandatory if he plays 50 per cent of their matches this season.
Full name Carlos Alberto Sanchez Moreno, he has 67 senior caps for Colombia.
Before Aston Villa he played for Danubio, River Plate, Valenciennes and Elche.[/article]
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Paddy McNair and Donald Love - Sunderland (£5.5 million)
[article]Sunderland AFC have completed the double signing of Paddy McNair and Donald Love from Manchester United for a fee of £5.5 million.
The versatile 21-year-olds have both put pen-to-paper on four-year deals and become David Moyes’ second and third signings as Sunderland manager.
Northern Ireland international McNair, who can operate in defence or midfield, has two seasons of Premier League experience at Old Trafford and heads to the Stadium of Light on the back of a successful UEFA Euro 2016 campaign with his country.
Scotland under-21 international Love, who can play at full-back or in midfield, made his senior debut for Manchester United last season, playing in both the Premier League and UEFA Europa League while also enjoying a successful spell on loan at Wigan Athletic.
Speaking about the signings, Moyes said: “Paddy is a young, athletic player who is improving all the time. He has experience for Northern Ireland and we want to bring as many international players to the club as we can.
“Donald comes highly recommended and is another young player who I hope can develop and improve here.
“I want to add some young players to the squad as well as some senior players and both of them have got really good potential and the opportunity to improve.
"I want to bring in players who are here for the long-term as well as the short and hopefully these two are here for the long-term.”[/article]
Sunderland continuing the 'tradition' of signing players from Man Utd
[article]Sunderland AFC have completed the double signing of Paddy McNair and Donald Love from Manchester United for a fee of £5.5 million.
The versatile 21-year-olds have both put pen-to-paper on four-year deals and become David Moyes’ second and third signings as Sunderland manager.
Northern Ireland international McNair, who can operate in defence or midfield, has two seasons of Premier League experience at Old Trafford and heads to the Stadium of Light on the back of a successful UEFA Euro 2016 campaign with his country.
Scotland under-21 international Love, who can play at full-back or in midfield, made his senior debut for Manchester United last season, playing in both the Premier League and UEFA Europa League while also enjoying a successful spell on loan at Wigan Athletic.
Speaking about the signings, Moyes said: “Paddy is a young, athletic player who is improving all the time. He has experience for Northern Ireland and we want to bring as many international players to the club as we can.
“Donald comes highly recommended and is another young player who I hope can develop and improve here.
“I want to add some young players to the squad as well as some senior players and both of them have got really good potential and the opportunity to improve.
"I want to bring in players who are here for the long-term as well as the short and hopefully these two are here for the long-term.”[/article]
Sunderland continuing the 'tradition' of signing players from Man Utd
Ashley Williams - Everton (reportedly £12 million)
[article]Ashley Williams believes he has joined “a great club with an unbelievable manager - a world legend in football” having sealed a move from Swansea City for an undisclosed fee.
The 31-year-old central defender, who captained Wales in their march to the Euro 2016 semi-finals, has signed a three-year deal to June 2019.
A former Welsh Player of the Year, Williams was integral in leading Wales so close to European glory this summer in the Dragons’ first appearance in a major finals for 58 years and he is determined to embrace a new challenge and create fresh, exciting memories at Everton.
Williams said: “I’ve had eight great years at Swansea and, for me, the new challenge was something I felt I needed, so I’m delighted to have joined Everton.
“Everton is a great club with an unbelievable manager - a world legend in football - and I believe the Club is going in the right direction. This is something I wanted to be a part of.
“I look forward to seeing what the manager’s plans are for me and the team. He’s been one of the greatest centre-halves to ever play the game, so I look forward to learning from him and seeing what he can teach me.
“I really can’t wait to get out there at Goodison. I’ve always enjoyed playing on the Goodison pitch, so it will be nice to be an Everton player and experience what it’s all about when I’m part of the home team.
“This is always a noisy place with a crowd that gets behind the team. As an away player – I’ve scored at Goodison and in my career I haven’t scored many goals - it’s a difficult place to play.
“What Everton fans can expect of me is an honest player, a hard-working player who will try to do as good as I can for my teammates and the Club. I’m not always perfect but I always have the right intentions and I try to leave it all out there on the pitch.
“I’m excited about meeting my new teammates, staff and focussing on the season ahead. Personal thanks to Ronald Koeman, Steve Walsh, Everton Chairman Bill Kenwright and my representatives at New Era Global Sports for making this fantastic opportunity possible.
“Obviously, Swansea was very memorable for me and I would like to thank every single fan, my former and current teammates and all of the Swansea family for their unconditional support and friendship. I wish everyone at Swansea all the best for the future and they will always hold a special place in my heart.”
Ronald Koeman said: “We wanted to bring in a strong player in the central defence position, a player who knows the Premier League and Ashley fits the bill for us very well.
“He is an experienced defender and the kind of player we need in the team. He is a leader. He showed this at Swansea and he has shown it for his country and he is looking forward to his new challenge here at Everton.”[/article]
Jonathan Calleri - West Ham (loan)
[article]West Ham United are delighted to confirm a deal has been agreed to sign Argentinean striker Jonathan Calleri on a season-long loan, subject to international clearance.
A loan fee and personal terms have been agreed with Calleri and his club Deportivo Maldonado and the 22-year-old is expected to arrive in London next week.
The exciting frontman will link up with the Hammers after appearing and scoring for his country at the Rio Olympic Games, and on the back of a prolific 18 months at club level.
Manager Slaven Bilic says the capture of Calleri, who finished as leading scorer at the 2016 Copa Libertadores, will add balance to the Hammers’ attacking options.
“We have agreed to sign Calleri,” he said “Unfortunately for him, but good for us, Argentina were knocked out of the Olympics this week, so he should be here with us pretty soon, depending on the work permit.
“We did the deal a little while ago, and he is a top striker. You need a squad, of course, but it is all about the balance. I think we have a good balance.”
Born in Buenos Aires, Calleri started his career with Primera Division side All Boys, making his senior debut at the age of 19 in August 2013.
The young forward’s ability and promise attracted the attention of Argentina’s biggest clubs and it was no surprise when legendary South American coach Carlos Bianchi took him to Boca Juniors in July 2014.
There, Calleri netted his first goal on his second start at Estudiantes before celebrating his 20th birthday with the winner against local rivals Racing Club.
The busy South American fixture list saw Calleri amass an impressive 53 appearances, 21 goals and eleven assists in a successful 18-month spell with Boca that saw him win the Primera Division and Copa Argentina double in late 2015.
The exciting youngster joined Uruguayan club Deportivo Maldonado in January 2016 and was soon loaned to Brazilian giants Sao Paulo.
Calleri spent six months in southern Brazil, scoring 16 goals in 30 appearances, including an impressive nine in 12 Copa Libertadores ties – the South American equivalent of the UEFA Champions League – as Sao Paulo reached the semi-finals.
After the deal is complete, he will become the sixth Argentine to play for West Ham after Lionel Scaloni, Javier Mascherano, Carlos Tevez, Mauro Zarate and current star Manuel Lanzini.[/article]
Borja Baston - Swansea (£15.5 million)
[article]Swansea City have completed the signing of Atletico Madrid striker Borja Baston for a club-record fee of £15.5million, subject to international clearance.
The 23-year-old, who will wear squad number ten, has penned a four-year deal after undergoing a successful medical today.
His fee eclipses that of the £12m spent on acquiring Wilfried Bony from Vitesse Arnhem in July 2013.
Borja, as he is known, arrives at the Liberty just five days after fellow countryman and World Cup winner Fernando Llorente joined the Swans from Sevilla.
The 6ft 1in striker, who came through the academy at Atletico Madrid, scored 18 goals while on loan at Eibar last season as he helped them finish 14th in the Spanish top flight.
Borja came through the Madrid academy, and scored 16 goals for the club’s second team while his sole senior team appearance came in 2010.
Along with his temporary stint at Eibar, he has also spent very successful loan spells with Murcia, Huesca, Deportivo La Coruna and Real Zaragoza.
Borja, who has been capped for Spain at Under-16, U17 and U19 level, could be available for the Swans’ opening Premier League fixture at Burnley on Saturday.[/article]
Marcos Llorente - Alaves (loan)
Central midfielder from Real Madrid
[article]Ashley Williams believes he has joined “a great club with an unbelievable manager - a world legend in football” having sealed a move from Swansea City for an undisclosed fee.
The 31-year-old central defender, who captained Wales in their march to the Euro 2016 semi-finals, has signed a three-year deal to June 2019.
A former Welsh Player of the Year, Williams was integral in leading Wales so close to European glory this summer in the Dragons’ first appearance in a major finals for 58 years and he is determined to embrace a new challenge and create fresh, exciting memories at Everton.
Williams said: “I’ve had eight great years at Swansea and, for me, the new challenge was something I felt I needed, so I’m delighted to have joined Everton.
“Everton is a great club with an unbelievable manager - a world legend in football - and I believe the Club is going in the right direction. This is something I wanted to be a part of.
“I look forward to seeing what the manager’s plans are for me and the team. He’s been one of the greatest centre-halves to ever play the game, so I look forward to learning from him and seeing what he can teach me.
“I really can’t wait to get out there at Goodison. I’ve always enjoyed playing on the Goodison pitch, so it will be nice to be an Everton player and experience what it’s all about when I’m part of the home team.
“This is always a noisy place with a crowd that gets behind the team. As an away player – I’ve scored at Goodison and in my career I haven’t scored many goals - it’s a difficult place to play.
“What Everton fans can expect of me is an honest player, a hard-working player who will try to do as good as I can for my teammates and the Club. I’m not always perfect but I always have the right intentions and I try to leave it all out there on the pitch.
“I’m excited about meeting my new teammates, staff and focussing on the season ahead. Personal thanks to Ronald Koeman, Steve Walsh, Everton Chairman Bill Kenwright and my representatives at New Era Global Sports for making this fantastic opportunity possible.
“Obviously, Swansea was very memorable for me and I would like to thank every single fan, my former and current teammates and all of the Swansea family for their unconditional support and friendship. I wish everyone at Swansea all the best for the future and they will always hold a special place in my heart.”
Ronald Koeman said: “We wanted to bring in a strong player in the central defence position, a player who knows the Premier League and Ashley fits the bill for us very well.
“He is an experienced defender and the kind of player we need in the team. He is a leader. He showed this at Swansea and he has shown it for his country and he is looking forward to his new challenge here at Everton.”[/article]
Jonathan Calleri - West Ham (loan)
[article]West Ham United are delighted to confirm a deal has been agreed to sign Argentinean striker Jonathan Calleri on a season-long loan, subject to international clearance.
A loan fee and personal terms have been agreed with Calleri and his club Deportivo Maldonado and the 22-year-old is expected to arrive in London next week.
The exciting frontman will link up with the Hammers after appearing and scoring for his country at the Rio Olympic Games, and on the back of a prolific 18 months at club level.
Manager Slaven Bilic says the capture of Calleri, who finished as leading scorer at the 2016 Copa Libertadores, will add balance to the Hammers’ attacking options.
“We have agreed to sign Calleri,” he said “Unfortunately for him, but good for us, Argentina were knocked out of the Olympics this week, so he should be here with us pretty soon, depending on the work permit.
“We did the deal a little while ago, and he is a top striker. You need a squad, of course, but it is all about the balance. I think we have a good balance.”
Born in Buenos Aires, Calleri started his career with Primera Division side All Boys, making his senior debut at the age of 19 in August 2013.
The young forward’s ability and promise attracted the attention of Argentina’s biggest clubs and it was no surprise when legendary South American coach Carlos Bianchi took him to Boca Juniors in July 2014.
There, Calleri netted his first goal on his second start at Estudiantes before celebrating his 20th birthday with the winner against local rivals Racing Club.
The busy South American fixture list saw Calleri amass an impressive 53 appearances, 21 goals and eleven assists in a successful 18-month spell with Boca that saw him win the Primera Division and Copa Argentina double in late 2015.
The exciting youngster joined Uruguayan club Deportivo Maldonado in January 2016 and was soon loaned to Brazilian giants Sao Paulo.
Calleri spent six months in southern Brazil, scoring 16 goals in 30 appearances, including an impressive nine in 12 Copa Libertadores ties – the South American equivalent of the UEFA Champions League – as Sao Paulo reached the semi-finals.
After the deal is complete, he will become the sixth Argentine to play for West Ham after Lionel Scaloni, Javier Mascherano, Carlos Tevez, Mauro Zarate and current star Manuel Lanzini.[/article]
Borja Baston - Swansea (£15.5 million)
[article]Swansea City have completed the signing of Atletico Madrid striker Borja Baston for a club-record fee of £15.5million, subject to international clearance.
The 23-year-old, who will wear squad number ten, has penned a four-year deal after undergoing a successful medical today.
His fee eclipses that of the £12m spent on acquiring Wilfried Bony from Vitesse Arnhem in July 2013.
Borja, as he is known, arrives at the Liberty just five days after fellow countryman and World Cup winner Fernando Llorente joined the Swans from Sevilla.
The 6ft 1in striker, who came through the academy at Atletico Madrid, scored 18 goals while on loan at Eibar last season as he helped them finish 14th in the Spanish top flight.
Borja came through the Madrid academy, and scored 16 goals for the club’s second team while his sole senior team appearance came in 2010.
Along with his temporary stint at Eibar, he has also spent very successful loan spells with Murcia, Huesca, Deportivo La Coruna and Real Zaragoza.
Borja, who has been capped for Spain at Under-16, U17 and U19 level, could be available for the Swans’ opening Premier League fixture at Burnley on Saturday.[/article]
Marcos Llorente - Alaves (loan)
Central midfielder from Real Madrid
Borja Baston - Swansea (£15.5 million)
[article]Swansea City have completed the signing of Atletico Madrid striker Borja Baston for a club-record fee of £15.5million, subject to international clearance.
The 23-year-old, who will wear squad number ten, has penned a four-year deal after undergoing a successful medical today.
His fee eclipses that of the £12m spent on acquiring Wilfried Bony from Vitesse Arnhem in July 2013.
Borja, as he is known, arrives at the Liberty just five days after fellow countryman and World Cup winner Fernando Llorente joined the Swans from Sevilla.
The 6ft 1in striker, who came through the academy at Atletico Madrid, scored 18 goals while on loan at Eibar last season as he helped them finish 14th in the Spanish top flight.
Borja came through the Madrid academy, and scored 16 goals for the club’s second team while his sole senior team appearance came in 2010.
Along with his temporary stint at Eibar, he has also spent very successful loan spells with Murcia, Huesca, Deportivo La Coruna and Real Zaragoza.
Borja, who has been capped for Spain at Under-16, U17 and U19 level, could be available for the Swans’ opening Premier League fixture at Burnley on Saturday.[/article]
That t-shirt
Adnan Januzaj - Sunderland (loan)
[article]Sunderland AFC have completed the signing of Adnan Januzaj on a season-long loan from Manchester United.
The 21-year-old Belgium international becomes David Moyes’ third signing as Sunderland boss.
Born in Brussels, Januzaj began his youth career with Anderlecht before moving to United, where he has since gone on to make 50 appearances for the first team, garnering both Premier League and UEFA Champions League experience.
The winger spent part of last season on loan with German giants Borussia Dortmund, gaining further experience in European competition.
Januzaj is no stranger to the Stadium of Light, having scored a brace to give his former club a 2-1 win over the Black Cats back in 2013 on one of his first senior appearances.
Sunderland’s latest addition is available to make his debut against Manchester City on the opening day of the Premier League season on Saturday.[/article]
[article]Sunderland AFC have completed the signing of Adnan Januzaj on a season-long loan from Manchester United.
The 21-year-old Belgium international becomes David Moyes’ third signing as Sunderland boss.
Born in Brussels, Januzaj began his youth career with Anderlecht before moving to United, where he has since gone on to make 50 appearances for the first team, garnering both Premier League and UEFA Champions League experience.
The winger spent part of last season on loan with German giants Borussia Dortmund, gaining further experience in European competition.
Januzaj is no stranger to the Stadium of Light, having scored a brace to give his former club a 2-1 win over the Black Cats back in 2013 on one of his first senior appearances.
Sunderland’s latest addition is available to make his debut against Manchester City on the opening day of the Premier League season on Saturday.[/article]
Fabio da Silva - Middlesbrough (reportedly £2 million)
[article]Boro have completed the signing of Fabio da Silva from Cardiff City for an undisclosed fee.
The Brazilian defender has put pen to paper on a 2-year deal after joining from the Cardiff City Stadium.
The 26-year-old will add experience and strength to Aitor Karanka’s backline, having made more than 100 appearances in English football for Manchester United, Queens Park Rangers and Cardiff City.
[/article]
[article]Boro have completed the signing of Fabio da Silva from Cardiff City for an undisclosed fee.
The Brazilian defender has put pen to paper on a 2-year deal after joining from the Cardiff City Stadium.
The 26-year-old will add experience and strength to Aitor Karanka’s backline, having made more than 100 appearances in English football for Manchester United, Queens Park Rangers and Cardiff City.
[/article]
James Chester - Aston Villa (reportedly £6 million)
[article]Aston Villa is delighted to announce the signing of James Chester.
Chester becomes our fifth signing of the summer and arrives from West Brom on a four year deal.
He follows Tommy Elphick, Pierluigi Gollini, Aaron Tshibola and Ross McCormack through the Villa Park doors.
Chester will wear the No.12 shirt.[/article]
Bertrand Traore - Ajax (loan)
[article]Ajax has reached an agreement with Bertrand Traoré and Chelsea FC. The forward has been loaned out from the English Club, where he is currently under contract. The loan out deal will be effective for one season, until June 30, 2017.
Traoré was born on September 6, 1995, in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. The international has played at Vitesse from January 2014 to June 2015 on a loan out basis.
Sporting Director Marc Overmars: “I´ve been working on Traoré for about one year. We were looking for a centre forward who could get in there and start playing immediately and who would be an asset for Ajax right away. We´ve achieved that by loaning out Traoré. Buying a centre forward and offering him a long-term contract would get in the way of the development of other centre forwards. Kasper Dolberg and Mateo Cassierra are both under twenty years old, and we have high expectations from them going forward. But we can´t expect for them to already be able to go for the whole season. In fact, this is exactly what we were looking for, and now it´s up to Traoré to show that this was the right move for Ajax, for Chelsea, and for himself. He has many qualities. He´s fast, focused and it´s a big advantage that he´s familiar with the Dutch competition. Peter Bosz´s presence was a plus for him, they worked very well together at Vitesse. In the past few days, we´ve managed to finalize all of the paperwork in time, and he will therefore be able to play on Tuesday in that important home match against Rostov. He also had some playing time in the pre-season at Chelsea, so he´s fit to play. We´re very happy with that, too.”[/article]
[article]Aston Villa is delighted to announce the signing of James Chester.
Chester becomes our fifth signing of the summer and arrives from West Brom on a four year deal.
He follows Tommy Elphick, Pierluigi Gollini, Aaron Tshibola and Ross McCormack through the Villa Park doors.
Chester will wear the No.12 shirt.[/article]
Bertrand Traore - Ajax (loan)
[article]Ajax has reached an agreement with Bertrand Traoré and Chelsea FC. The forward has been loaned out from the English Club, where he is currently under contract. The loan out deal will be effective for one season, until June 30, 2017.
Traoré was born on September 6, 1995, in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. The international has played at Vitesse from January 2014 to June 2015 on a loan out basis.
Sporting Director Marc Overmars: “I´ve been working on Traoré for about one year. We were looking for a centre forward who could get in there and start playing immediately and who would be an asset for Ajax right away. We´ve achieved that by loaning out Traoré. Buying a centre forward and offering him a long-term contract would get in the way of the development of other centre forwards. Kasper Dolberg and Mateo Cassierra are both under twenty years old, and we have high expectations from them going forward. But we can´t expect for them to already be able to go for the whole season. In fact, this is exactly what we were looking for, and now it´s up to Traoré to show that this was the right move for Ajax, for Chelsea, and for himself. He has many qualities. He´s fast, focused and it´s a big advantage that he´s familiar with the Dutch competition. Peter Bosz´s presence was a plus for him, they worked very well together at Vitesse. In the past few days, we´ve managed to finalize all of the paperwork in time, and he will therefore be able to play on Tuesday in that important home match against Rostov. He also had some playing time in the pre-season at Chelsea, so he´s fit to play. We´re very happy with that, too.”[/article]
Defender Castells joins City
August 13, 2016
Derry City are delighted to announce the signing of Spanish defender Cristian Castells.
The 31-year-old centre-back, who is a former Valencia youth team player, has signed a short term deal until the end of the season.
Boss Kenny Shiels was delighted to have added the big defender to his squad.
Liam Bridcutt - Leeds Utd (undisclosed fee)
[article]We are delighted to announce the signing of midfielder Liam Bridcutt on a two-year deal from Sunderland.
Bridcutt, who impressed during a loan stint with United last season, returns to Elland Road for an undisclosed fee to become Garry Monk’s ninth signing of the summer.
The Scotland international, a product of the Chelsea Academy, featured 27 times in all competitions for United during 2015/16 after arriving from the Stadium of Light in late November.
Bridcutt, 27, established himself as a regular fixture in the side and went on to be shortlisted for United’s Player of the Year award at the end of the last campaign.
“It feels good to be back,” Bridcutt told leedsunited.com . “It’s been a long time coming but now I’m really glad to be here and I’m just looking forward to playing football again.
“I enjoyed myself here last season. The boys made feel very welcome and it’s a club I’ve enjoyed playing for.
“I was very happy here and there was a persistence from Leeds this summer which made me feel wanted, and that’s always a good thing.
“The fans were also a key aspect of me signing here again. They were brilliant with me last year – I felt like I connected with Leeds as soon as I came here and it was a team I wanted to play for.
“Every time I run out for Leeds I’ll give 110% and I’ll aim to get better each week. I just can’t wait to get back out onto the pitch.”
United boss Garry Monk added: “I’m very pleased to have Liam on board. When I first came into the club, I analysed all the games from last season and Liam contributed really well.
“I’m very happy to get the deal done. Liam brings a wealth of experience, a good level of quality to the group and something that we need.
“He has that bit of leadership and personality that will help the group. I’m very pleased to have him through the door - I know what he’s capable of.”
Bridcutt will not be eligible for Tuesday evening’s Sky Bet Championship clash at home to Fulham but could feature away to Sheffield Wednesday this Saturday.[/article]
Steven Defour - Burnley (reportedly £7.5 million)
[article]Burnley Football Club is delighted to finally announce the signing of Belgium international midfielder Steven Defour from RSC Anderlecht for a club-record undisclosed fee.
After receiving the signed transfer agreement today, and subject to international clearance, the 28-year-old has agreed a three-year deal and becomes the Clarets’ fourth signing of the summer.
Born in Mechelen, Defour comes with a sizeable pedigree, having been capped 46 times for Belgium and winning the domestic league title twice during his time at Standard Liege.
During his time at Porto, he also won the Portuguese title on two occasions before making the switch back to his homeland with Anderlecht.
And the Belgian midfielder is delighted to have the opportunity to prove himself in the top-flight in English football.
He said: “I hope I can bring my experience to the team and the club to stay in the Premier League.
“I’m looking forward to every game. The atmosphere around the league is fantastic and everyone across the world has seen the Premier League, so I am very proud to be a part of that.
“It is a new challenge for me, but I like that.”
Defour, who has been a summer-long target for the Clarets, added: “It has been a long few weeks, but I am very happy to be here.
“When I knew that Burnley was interested, I took some time to look into the club and I saw some interesting stuff.
“I also called a friend of mine who plays at Brentford and he told me Burnley was the best team in the Championship and that it would be a really good choice for me.”
Manager Sean Dyche added: “Steven was a target of ours and it’s been a hard deal to do, but we got there in the end.
“He’s a good player with a depth of experience at international level and also Champions League.
“Steven is new to the Premier League but has a real thirst and desire to be successful in this campaign.”
Defour will wear number 16 at Turf Moor, and Clarets Player HD subscribers can now view the first interview with the Clarets’ record signing. [/article]
Isaiah Brown - Rotherham Utd (loan)
[article]Rotherham United have completed the signing of Chelsea forward Izzy Brown on a season long loan, subject to EFL, Premier League and FA ratification.
The 19-year-old successfully completed a medical this morning to become Alan Stubbs’ tenth summer signing.
The youngster has made one senior appearance for the Premier League giants after coming off the bench against former club West Bromwich Albion in 2015.
That was his second senior appearance in the top flight after becoming the second youngest player in the Premier League when he starred for West Brom in a home defeat to Wigan.
He joined Chelsea in 2013 and gained further experience last season after a loan spell in Holland with Vitesse Arnhem last season.
The Peterborough-born ace has also represented England at under 16, 17 and 19 levels, and scored twice at AESSEAL New York Stadium for the 19s against Italy in a 3-0 victory in 2014.[/article]
Yannick Bolasie - Everton (reportedly £25 million)
[article]Yannick Bolasie says the ambition of Everton Football Club made him “want to be part of it” as he completed his move from Crystal Palace for an undisclosed fee.
The 27-year-old has signed a five-year contract at Everton to June 2021.
A powerful, pacy winger with an array of tricks and exciting skills, Bolasie will wear the number 14 shirt for the Toffees.
He has been a long time on Everton manager Ronald Koeman’s radar and the Congolese international, who scored his first Premier League goal at Goodison two seasons ago, is “ready and up for the challenge”.
“I’m looking forward to putting on the Everton shirt,” Bolasie told evertontv. “This is a big club and I know all about it from having played against them over the years.
“For me, it was a no-brainer to come here. But now that I’ve come to Everton, the job is not done. I’ve got to work hard and feel my way in. I’m ready and up for the challenge.
“It’s not about the money for me. It’s about looking at the ambition of the Club and where they are trying to get to. I just like to play football.
“I just like to play football and it’s going to be really interesting to learn from someone like Ronald Koeman, who was obviously a top centre-back as a player and he played with some of the best players in the world.
“The Club has made good signings, players like Ashley Williams who I know well - and I know that I’ve joined a club that not only has lots of quality players but one that produces lots of quality players, like Ross Barkley, as well.
“This season is going to be very interesting and I’m looking forward to being part of it here at Everton.”
Capped 27 times by the Democratic Republic of Congo, he has scored seven goals in international football and his talent and Premier League experience make him a really good signing for the Club, according to Koeman.
He said: “Yannick is a player who has been a long time on my radar because he’s the type of winger I like – fast, strong and he can play different positions in the forward line. He’s a really good signing for the Club.
“At 27, he’s a good age and he has experience in the Premier League. He will give strength to the team and I’m very pleased to have Yannick as part of what we are trying to build here at Everton.”[/article]
Michael Hector - Eintracht Frankfurt (loan)
[article]Chelsea defender Michael Hector has joined Eintracht Frankfurt on a season-long loan, both clubs have confirmed.
Hector was included in Antonio Conte's first team squad for preseason trips to Austria and the United States, but is still waiting to make his first senior appearance for Chelsea after moving to Stamford Bridge from Reading in a £4 million deal last September.
The 24-year-old, a boyhood Chelsea fan who came through Reading's academy, spent the 2015-16 season back on loan at the Madejski Stadium and will now continue his development in the Bundesliga with Eintracht, who narrowly avoided relegation after finishing 16th last season.
Hector's move leaves Conte with just seven senior defenders to call upon -- a list that includes academy youngster Ola Aina and U.S. defender Matt Miazga, who is also expected to leave Stamford Bridge on loan after missing an open training session at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday.
Earlier this week, sources told ESPN FC that Brazilian youngster Kenedy, the other first team name absent from the Stamford Bridge open day, has emerged as a loan target for Watford and both clubs are in advanced talks over a deal.[/article]
Cristian Tello - Fiorentina (loan with option to buy)
[article]Fiorentina have officially secured the loan of Cristian Tello from Barcelona, who released a statement on their website to confirm the move.
The winger proved useful to Paulo Sousa when he was picked up on a loan last January, and the Viola have decided to keep him for another full year.
With the player already in Italy and spotted at the Fiorentina grounds, Barcelona's confirmation on their official website comes as no surprise to anyone.
“FC Barcelona and Fiorentina have arrived at an agreement for the loan of Cristian Tello for the 2016/17 season,” reads a statement on the site.
“The Italian club contractually agrees that the participation of the player remains active during the loan.
“The agreement includes an option for Fiorentina to buy the player at the end of the 2016/17, which FC Barcelona can block.”[/article]
David Jones - Sheff Wed (undisclosed fee)
[article]Wednesday have signed David Jones from Premier League side Burnley for an undisclosed fee.
The 31-year-old joins with a rich pedigree having represented four teams in the Premier League – Derby, Wolves, Wigan and Burnley.
In addition, Jones has four second tier promotions under the belt – second only to strike star Kevin Phillips - and made 41 league appearances for the Clarets last season in their march to the Championship title.
Jones spent his formative years with Premier League giants Manchester United from the age of ten, and left just over a decade later after loan stints with Preston North End and Dutch side NEC Nijmegen.
A £1m move to Derby County followed and the midfield man helped the Rams win promotion to the top tier.
A successful move to Wolves came next, together with another promotion, before Jones switched to the top flight with Wigan.
The Southport product then signed for Burnley, with whom he has two Premier League promotions to his name.
In total, Jones has made 297 starts through his career to date. He will wear shirt number three for the Owls.[/article]
Bruno Fernandes - Sampdoria (loan with obligation to buy)
[article]Sampdoria have signed Bruno Fernandes from Udinese, on loan with obligation to buy.
The 21-year-old made 31 appearances in Serie A last season, scoring three times and providing four assists.
“U.C Sampdoria announces the signing of Bruno Miguel Borges Fernandes on loan from Udinese Calcio on loan with the obligation to buy,” a statement on the Blucerchiati’s website begins.
“The midfielder, who has chosen the number 10 shirt, will be available to Coach Marco Giampaolo starting from today’s training session at the sports centre in Bogliasco.”[/article]
[article]We are delighted to announce the signing of midfielder Liam Bridcutt on a two-year deal from Sunderland.
Bridcutt, who impressed during a loan stint with United last season, returns to Elland Road for an undisclosed fee to become Garry Monk’s ninth signing of the summer.
The Scotland international, a product of the Chelsea Academy, featured 27 times in all competitions for United during 2015/16 after arriving from the Stadium of Light in late November.
Bridcutt, 27, established himself as a regular fixture in the side and went on to be shortlisted for United’s Player of the Year award at the end of the last campaign.
“It feels good to be back,” Bridcutt told leedsunited.com . “It’s been a long time coming but now I’m really glad to be here and I’m just looking forward to playing football again.
“I enjoyed myself here last season. The boys made feel very welcome and it’s a club I’ve enjoyed playing for.
“I was very happy here and there was a persistence from Leeds this summer which made me feel wanted, and that’s always a good thing.
“The fans were also a key aspect of me signing here again. They were brilliant with me last year – I felt like I connected with Leeds as soon as I came here and it was a team I wanted to play for.
“Every time I run out for Leeds I’ll give 110% and I’ll aim to get better each week. I just can’t wait to get back out onto the pitch.”
United boss Garry Monk added: “I’m very pleased to have Liam on board. When I first came into the club, I analysed all the games from last season and Liam contributed really well.
“I’m very happy to get the deal done. Liam brings a wealth of experience, a good level of quality to the group and something that we need.
“He has that bit of leadership and personality that will help the group. I’m very pleased to have him through the door - I know what he’s capable of.”
Bridcutt will not be eligible for Tuesday evening’s Sky Bet Championship clash at home to Fulham but could feature away to Sheffield Wednesday this Saturday.[/article]
Steven Defour - Burnley (reportedly £7.5 million)
[article]Burnley Football Club is delighted to finally announce the signing of Belgium international midfielder Steven Defour from RSC Anderlecht for a club-record undisclosed fee.
After receiving the signed transfer agreement today, and subject to international clearance, the 28-year-old has agreed a three-year deal and becomes the Clarets’ fourth signing of the summer.
Born in Mechelen, Defour comes with a sizeable pedigree, having been capped 46 times for Belgium and winning the domestic league title twice during his time at Standard Liege.
During his time at Porto, he also won the Portuguese title on two occasions before making the switch back to his homeland with Anderlecht.
And the Belgian midfielder is delighted to have the opportunity to prove himself in the top-flight in English football.
He said: “I hope I can bring my experience to the team and the club to stay in the Premier League.
“I’m looking forward to every game. The atmosphere around the league is fantastic and everyone across the world has seen the Premier League, so I am very proud to be a part of that.
“It is a new challenge for me, but I like that.”
Defour, who has been a summer-long target for the Clarets, added: “It has been a long few weeks, but I am very happy to be here.
“When I knew that Burnley was interested, I took some time to look into the club and I saw some interesting stuff.
“I also called a friend of mine who plays at Brentford and he told me Burnley was the best team in the Championship and that it would be a really good choice for me.”
Manager Sean Dyche added: “Steven was a target of ours and it’s been a hard deal to do, but we got there in the end.
“He’s a good player with a depth of experience at international level and also Champions League.
“Steven is new to the Premier League but has a real thirst and desire to be successful in this campaign.”
Defour will wear number 16 at Turf Moor, and Clarets Player HD subscribers can now view the first interview with the Clarets’ record signing. [/article]
Isaiah Brown - Rotherham Utd (loan)
[article]Rotherham United have completed the signing of Chelsea forward Izzy Brown on a season long loan, subject to EFL, Premier League and FA ratification.
The 19-year-old successfully completed a medical this morning to become Alan Stubbs’ tenth summer signing.
The youngster has made one senior appearance for the Premier League giants after coming off the bench against former club West Bromwich Albion in 2015.
That was his second senior appearance in the top flight after becoming the second youngest player in the Premier League when he starred for West Brom in a home defeat to Wigan.
He joined Chelsea in 2013 and gained further experience last season after a loan spell in Holland with Vitesse Arnhem last season.
The Peterborough-born ace has also represented England at under 16, 17 and 19 levels, and scored twice at AESSEAL New York Stadium for the 19s against Italy in a 3-0 victory in 2014.[/article]
Yannick Bolasie - Everton (reportedly £25 million)
[article]Yannick Bolasie says the ambition of Everton Football Club made him “want to be part of it” as he completed his move from Crystal Palace for an undisclosed fee.
The 27-year-old has signed a five-year contract at Everton to June 2021.
A powerful, pacy winger with an array of tricks and exciting skills, Bolasie will wear the number 14 shirt for the Toffees.
He has been a long time on Everton manager Ronald Koeman’s radar and the Congolese international, who scored his first Premier League goal at Goodison two seasons ago, is “ready and up for the challenge”.
“I’m looking forward to putting on the Everton shirt,” Bolasie told evertontv. “This is a big club and I know all about it from having played against them over the years.
“For me, it was a no-brainer to come here. But now that I’ve come to Everton, the job is not done. I’ve got to work hard and feel my way in. I’m ready and up for the challenge.
“It’s not about the money for me. It’s about looking at the ambition of the Club and where they are trying to get to. I just like to play football.
“I just like to play football and it’s going to be really interesting to learn from someone like Ronald Koeman, who was obviously a top centre-back as a player and he played with some of the best players in the world.
“The Club has made good signings, players like Ashley Williams who I know well - and I know that I’ve joined a club that not only has lots of quality players but one that produces lots of quality players, like Ross Barkley, as well.
“This season is going to be very interesting and I’m looking forward to being part of it here at Everton.”
Capped 27 times by the Democratic Republic of Congo, he has scored seven goals in international football and his talent and Premier League experience make him a really good signing for the Club, according to Koeman.
He said: “Yannick is a player who has been a long time on my radar because he’s the type of winger I like – fast, strong and he can play different positions in the forward line. He’s a really good signing for the Club.
“At 27, he’s a good age and he has experience in the Premier League. He will give strength to the team and I’m very pleased to have Yannick as part of what we are trying to build here at Everton.”[/article]
Michael Hector - Eintracht Frankfurt (loan)
[article]Chelsea defender Michael Hector has joined Eintracht Frankfurt on a season-long loan, both clubs have confirmed.
Hector was included in Antonio Conte's first team squad for preseason trips to Austria and the United States, but is still waiting to make his first senior appearance for Chelsea after moving to Stamford Bridge from Reading in a £4 million deal last September.
The 24-year-old, a boyhood Chelsea fan who came through Reading's academy, spent the 2015-16 season back on loan at the Madejski Stadium and will now continue his development in the Bundesliga with Eintracht, who narrowly avoided relegation after finishing 16th last season.
Hector's move leaves Conte with just seven senior defenders to call upon -- a list that includes academy youngster Ola Aina and U.S. defender Matt Miazga, who is also expected to leave Stamford Bridge on loan after missing an open training session at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday.
Earlier this week, sources told ESPN FC that Brazilian youngster Kenedy, the other first team name absent from the Stamford Bridge open day, has emerged as a loan target for Watford and both clubs are in advanced talks over a deal.[/article]
Cristian Tello - Fiorentina (loan with option to buy)
[article]Fiorentina have officially secured the loan of Cristian Tello from Barcelona, who released a statement on their website to confirm the move.
The winger proved useful to Paulo Sousa when he was picked up on a loan last January, and the Viola have decided to keep him for another full year.
With the player already in Italy and spotted at the Fiorentina grounds, Barcelona's confirmation on their official website comes as no surprise to anyone.
“FC Barcelona and Fiorentina have arrived at an agreement for the loan of Cristian Tello for the 2016/17 season,” reads a statement on the site.
“The Italian club contractually agrees that the participation of the player remains active during the loan.
“The agreement includes an option for Fiorentina to buy the player at the end of the 2016/17, which FC Barcelona can block.”[/article]
David Jones - Sheff Wed (undisclosed fee)
[article]Wednesday have signed David Jones from Premier League side Burnley for an undisclosed fee.
The 31-year-old joins with a rich pedigree having represented four teams in the Premier League – Derby, Wolves, Wigan and Burnley.
In addition, Jones has four second tier promotions under the belt – second only to strike star Kevin Phillips - and made 41 league appearances for the Clarets last season in their march to the Championship title.
Jones spent his formative years with Premier League giants Manchester United from the age of ten, and left just over a decade later after loan stints with Preston North End and Dutch side NEC Nijmegen.
A £1m move to Derby County followed and the midfield man helped the Rams win promotion to the top tier.
A successful move to Wolves came next, together with another promotion, before Jones switched to the top flight with Wigan.
The Southport product then signed for Burnley, with whom he has two Premier League promotions to his name.
In total, Jones has made 297 starts through his career to date. He will wear shirt number three for the Owls.[/article]
Bruno Fernandes - Sampdoria (loan with obligation to buy)
[article]Sampdoria have signed Bruno Fernandes from Udinese, on loan with obligation to buy.
The 21-year-old made 31 appearances in Serie A last season, scoring three times and providing four assists.
“U.C Sampdoria announces the signing of Bruno Miguel Borges Fernandes on loan from Udinese Calcio on loan with the obligation to buy,” a statement on the Blucerchiati’s website begins.
“The midfielder, who has chosen the number 10 shirt, will be available to Coach Marco Giampaolo starting from today’s training session at the sports centre in Bogliasco.”[/article]
Craig Shakespeare - England (First Team Coach)
[article]Craig Shakespeare has been appointed England first-team coach working alongside new manager Sam Allardyce.
Highly regarded across the game for his coaching prowess, man-management skills and tactical ability, Shakespeare will work with Allardyce and assistant manager Sammy Lee in preparing the England squad on the road to the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia – starting with the qualifier away to Slovakia on 4 September.
He will retain his prominent role as assistant manager at champions Leicester City, where he played a key part in the Foxes’ Premier League triumph last season. This is his second spell at Leicester, either side of a one-year stay at Hull City – having first joined the club back in 2008.
Shakespeare, who as well as his coaching credentials enjoyed a long playing career most notably with Walsall and West Bromwich Albion, said: “This is a huge honour for me.
“Anyone involved in football knows that representing your country is something special and this caps off a brilliant year.
“Leicester have been really good to me and I am sure the international experience I get from being alongside Sam and Sammy will add to my work at the club. We will have an elite group of players and a great facility in St. George’s Park. I can’t wait to get started.”
Allardyce said: “Craig will be a tremendous asset to England, and I am grateful to Leicester for their help in making this happen.
“Sammy and I know him well and he will bring his own insight to what we are trying to do with the squad. Players respect him and his achievement this past season means we will be getting someone who has a strong winning mentality.”[/article]
[article]Craig Shakespeare has been appointed England first-team coach working alongside new manager Sam Allardyce.
Highly regarded across the game for his coaching prowess, man-management skills and tactical ability, Shakespeare will work with Allardyce and assistant manager Sammy Lee in preparing the England squad on the road to the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia – starting with the qualifier away to Slovakia on 4 September.
He will retain his prominent role as assistant manager at champions Leicester City, where he played a key part in the Foxes’ Premier League triumph last season. This is his second spell at Leicester, either side of a one-year stay at Hull City – having first joined the club back in 2008.
Shakespeare, who as well as his coaching credentials enjoyed a long playing career most notably with Walsall and West Bromwich Albion, said: “This is a huge honour for me.
“Anyone involved in football knows that representing your country is something special and this caps off a brilliant year.
“Leicester have been really good to me and I am sure the international experience I get from being alongside Sam and Sammy will add to my work at the club. We will have an elite group of players and a great facility in St. George’s Park. I can’t wait to get started.”
Allardyce said: “Craig will be a tremendous asset to England, and I am grateful to Leicester for their help in making this happen.
“Sammy and I know him well and he will bring his own insight to what we are trying to do with the squad. Players respect him and his achievement this past season means we will be getting someone who has a strong winning mentality.”[/article]
Christian Benteke - Crystal Palace (reportedly £27 million plus potential add ons up to £5 million)
[article]Crystal Palace have signed Belgium international striker Christian Benteke from Liverpool for an undisclosed fee on a four year contract
The 25-year-old becomes the Eagles’ fourth signing of the summer after Andros Townsend, James Tomkins and Steve Mandanda.
Benteke has scored 51 times in the Premier League over the past four seasons after joining Aston Villa from Belgian club Genk in 2012. After three impressive campaigns with the Villans, he made a £32.5 million move to Liverpool last summer where he scored 10 times for the Reds, including one against Palace at Selhurst Park - something he also achieved with Villa the season before.
A former Belgian First Division winner with Standard Liege in 2009, Benteke has netted six times in 26 outings for his country and represented them at Euro 2016 during the summer.
After signing his Palace contract, he said: “I’m very happy to commit my future to Crystal Palace and I’m looking forward to meeting the manager, the players and the staff.
“I feel really happy that the deal has been done and now I can look forward.”[/article]
[article]Crystal Palace have signed Belgium international striker Christian Benteke from Liverpool for an undisclosed fee on a four year contract
The 25-year-old becomes the Eagles’ fourth signing of the summer after Andros Townsend, James Tomkins and Steve Mandanda.
Benteke has scored 51 times in the Premier League over the past four seasons after joining Aston Villa from Belgian club Genk in 2012. After three impressive campaigns with the Villans, he made a £32.5 million move to Liverpool last summer where he scored 10 times for the Reds, including one against Palace at Selhurst Park - something he also achieved with Villa the season before.
A former Belgian First Division winner with Standard Liege in 2009, Benteke has netted six times in 26 outings for his country and represented them at Euro 2016 during the summer.
After signing his Palace contract, he said: “I’m very happy to commit my future to Crystal Palace and I’m looking forward to meeting the manager, the players and the staff.
“I feel really happy that the deal has been done and now I can look forward.”[/article]
Ritchie De Laet - Aston Villa (reportedly €2.3 million)
[article]Aston Villa Football Club is pleased to announce the signing of Ritchie De Laet.
The 27-year-old joins from Leicester City on a three-year deal for an undisclosed fee.
De Laet helped the Foxes win the Premier League last season and also played a part in Middlesbrough’s successful promotion from the Championship.
Manager Roberto Di Matteo said: “I’m pleased to have brought Ritchie to the Club.
“He is another player who not only has Championship experience but has also played a part in helping a team win promotion back to the Premier League.”[/article]
[article]Aston Villa Football Club is pleased to announce the signing of Ritchie De Laet.
The 27-year-old joins from Leicester City on a three-year deal for an undisclosed fee.
De Laet helped the Foxes win the Premier League last season and also played a part in Middlesbrough’s successful promotion from the Championship.
Manager Roberto Di Matteo said: “I’m pleased to have brought Ritchie to the Club.
“He is another player who not only has Championship experience but has also played a part in helping a team win promotion back to the Premier League.”[/article]
Marko Marin - Olympiacos (reportedly €3 million)
Dante - Nice (reportedly €2 million)
[article]Brazilian central defender Dante is to break his ties with VfL Wolfsburg and make an immediate move to French first division side OGC Nice. Both clubs agreed on the deal on Sunday, the details of which remain undisclosed. Dante, who links up with his former Gladbach coach Lucien Favre in Nice, joined the Wolves from FC Bayern Munich in 2015. Last season, the defender made 24 league appearances for the Wolves, scoring one goal. The centre-half was also involved in nine Champions League games for the Green-Whites. This will be the 13 time Brazilian international’s second stint in France, having played for OSC Lille between December 2004 and January 2006.
VfL Sporting Director Klaus Allofs explained why the club agreed to the transfer: "We would have liked to have seen Dante remain on as part of our squad, but we granted his wish to gain some further experience as a 32-year-old. He presented himself as an impeccable sportsman, who could always be relied upon, during his time at VfL Wolfsburg. We wish him all the very best."
Dante is delighted that his wish has been granted, but makes the move with something of a heavy heart: "Although I only played in Wolfsburg for one year, I had a really wonderful and educational time. I gained a lot of new friends and leave here with some great memories. I am very grateful to VfL for the opportunity to present myself at the very highest level in the Bundesliga and in the Champions League. I wish my former colleagues, VfL Wolfsburg and all the fans the greatest of success and I hope our paths cross again soon on the international stage."[/article]
Brendan Galloway - West Brom (loan)
[article]ALBION have completed the loan signing of Brendan Galloway on a season-long agreement.
The highly-regarded 20-year-old left-back arrives from Everton until the end of the 2016/17 campaign, on a deal which does not include a recall clause.
“I’m delighted," said Galloway, who will wear the No.20 shirt. "It’s a great Club and I’m really looking forward to getting started.
“My aims are to play and work hard for the team and help win as many matches as I can, it’s all about winning.
“I think for me personally, it’s really important to gain more experience. Coming here is the perfect opportunity to do that.
“I can’t wait to get started and put the shirt on.”
Galloway, born in Zimbabwe, signed a five-year deal with Premier League Everton in August 2014 having arrived from MK Dons.
The versatile defender, who can also play centre-half, made his Dons debut in November 2011 aged just 15 – the first of 17 appearance before moving to Goodison Park.
Galloway impressed for the Toffees in their Under-21 ranks and was duly handed his senior Premier League debut in May 2015 when he started a 2-1 win away at West Ham United.
But it was last season in which Galloway firmly made his first-team breakthrough – starting 14 Premier League matches as he went on to impress in 19 appearances for the Merseyside outfit, earning an improved new contract.
He has represented England at Under-17, Under-18 and Under-19 level.[/article]
Dante - Nice (reportedly €2 million)
[article]Brazilian central defender Dante is to break his ties with VfL Wolfsburg and make an immediate move to French first division side OGC Nice. Both clubs agreed on the deal on Sunday, the details of which remain undisclosed. Dante, who links up with his former Gladbach coach Lucien Favre in Nice, joined the Wolves from FC Bayern Munich in 2015. Last season, the defender made 24 league appearances for the Wolves, scoring one goal. The centre-half was also involved in nine Champions League games for the Green-Whites. This will be the 13 time Brazilian international’s second stint in France, having played for OSC Lille between December 2004 and January 2006.
VfL Sporting Director Klaus Allofs explained why the club agreed to the transfer: "We would have liked to have seen Dante remain on as part of our squad, but we granted his wish to gain some further experience as a 32-year-old. He presented himself as an impeccable sportsman, who could always be relied upon, during his time at VfL Wolfsburg. We wish him all the very best."
Dante is delighted that his wish has been granted, but makes the move with something of a heavy heart: "Although I only played in Wolfsburg for one year, I had a really wonderful and educational time. I gained a lot of new friends and leave here with some great memories. I am very grateful to VfL for the opportunity to present myself at the very highest level in the Bundesliga and in the Champions League. I wish my former colleagues, VfL Wolfsburg and all the fans the greatest of success and I hope our paths cross again soon on the international stage."[/article]
Brendan Galloway - West Brom (loan)
[article]ALBION have completed the loan signing of Brendan Galloway on a season-long agreement.
The highly-regarded 20-year-old left-back arrives from Everton until the end of the 2016/17 campaign, on a deal which does not include a recall clause.
“I’m delighted," said Galloway, who will wear the No.20 shirt. "It’s a great Club and I’m really looking forward to getting started.
“My aims are to play and work hard for the team and help win as many matches as I can, it’s all about winning.
“I think for me personally, it’s really important to gain more experience. Coming here is the perfect opportunity to do that.
“I can’t wait to get started and put the shirt on.”
Galloway, born in Zimbabwe, signed a five-year deal with Premier League Everton in August 2014 having arrived from MK Dons.
The versatile defender, who can also play centre-half, made his Dons debut in November 2011 aged just 15 – the first of 17 appearance before moving to Goodison Park.
Galloway impressed for the Toffees in their Under-21 ranks and was duly handed his senior Premier League debut in May 2015 when he started a 2-1 win away at West Ham United.
But it was last season in which Galloway firmly made his first-team breakthrough – starting 14 Premier League matches as he went on to impress in 19 appearances for the Merseyside outfit, earning an improved new contract.
He has represented England at Under-17, Under-18 and Under-19 level.[/article]
Marko Marin
TERRY LEE, GARY TIBBS AND YOURS TRULY!!!!
Steven Pienaar - Sunderland (free transfer)
[article]Sunderland AFC have completed the signing of midfielder Steven Pienaar on a short-term deal until the end of the season.
The South African was a free agent after leaving Everton at the end of last season, having made almost 200 appearances for the Toffees over two spells.
Pienaar will be reunited with David Moyes, the manager who brought him to England in 2007 from Borussia Dortmund.
After beginning his career with Ajax Cape Town in his homeland, Pienaar joined Ajax in Holland, where he won six domestic trophies, including two Eredivisie titles.
From there he went on to join Dortmund before moving to the Blues, whilst he has also had a spell at Tottenham Hotspur before returning to Goodison Park.[/article]
[article]Sunderland AFC have completed the signing of midfielder Steven Pienaar on a short-term deal until the end of the season.
The South African was a free agent after leaving Everton at the end of last season, having made almost 200 appearances for the Toffees over two spells.
Pienaar will be reunited with David Moyes, the manager who brought him to England in 2007 from Borussia Dortmund.
After beginning his career with Ajax Cape Town in his homeland, Pienaar joined Ajax in Holland, where he won six domestic trophies, including two Eredivisie titles.
From there he went on to join Dortmund before moving to the Blues, whilst he has also had a spell at Tottenham Hotspur before returning to Goodison Park.[/article]
Daryl Janmaat - Watford (reportedly £7 million)
[article]Netherlands international Daryl Janmaat has joined the Hornets in a permanent transfer from Newcastle United, Watford FC is pleased to confirm.
The 27-year-old, who plays in the right wing-back position, has signed a four-year contract at Vicarage Road.
A £5m signing for the Magpies from Feyenoord in July 2014, Janmaat impressed as he made 77 appearances for the North East club, scoring four goals – including a strike during Watford’s 2-1 win at St James' Park last September.
He’s also played 27 times for the Dutch national team, including five outings at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, since making his international debut four years ago.
After starting his career with ADO Den Haag, Janmaat moved to SC Heerenveen in the summer of 2008 and spent four seasons with the Eredivisie outfit before completing a transfer to Feyenoord ahead of the 2012/13 season.
He played 74 times for Ronald Koeman’s side, scoring five goals and playing an important part as Feyenoord finished league runners-up during 2013/14.
Speaking to watfordfc.com after completing his move, Janmaat said: "I'm really happy to be here, it's a new adventure for me. I was really pleased that Watford showed interest in me because I wanted to play in the Premier League.
"We [Newcastle] lost three times to Watford last season. They had a good season and I hope we can do the same again this year.
"The club is showing great ambition and wants to improve, and I want to be part of that."[/article]
Roberto Pereyra - Watford (reportedly €13 million plus add ons up to €2 million)
[article]The Hornets are delighted to announce the signing of Argentina international Roberto Pereyra, subject to a work permit.
The 25-year-old attacking midfielder, who has moved to Watford from Serie A champions Juventus, has agreed a five-year deal at Vicarage Road.
Originally a season-long loan signing for the Turin outfit in July 2014, Pereyra made a €14m permanent move the following summer and played nearly 70 matches as Juventus secured back-to-back Serie A and Coppa Italia titles in 2014/15 and 2015/16, scoring six goals in total for the club.
He also featured in the 2015 Champions League final, during a 3-1 defeat to Barcelona in Berlin.
Pereyra began his professional career in Argentina with River Plate before earning a €2m move to Italy with Udinese, where he made 104 outings between 2011 and 2014.
Since making his international debut in October 2014, he has represented Argentina 10 times, including two appearances as Gerardo Martino’s men finished runners-up at the 2015 Copa America.[/article]
[article]Netherlands international Daryl Janmaat has joined the Hornets in a permanent transfer from Newcastle United, Watford FC is pleased to confirm.
The 27-year-old, who plays in the right wing-back position, has signed a four-year contract at Vicarage Road.
A £5m signing for the Magpies from Feyenoord in July 2014, Janmaat impressed as he made 77 appearances for the North East club, scoring four goals – including a strike during Watford’s 2-1 win at St James' Park last September.
He’s also played 27 times for the Dutch national team, including five outings at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, since making his international debut four years ago.
After starting his career with ADO Den Haag, Janmaat moved to SC Heerenveen in the summer of 2008 and spent four seasons with the Eredivisie outfit before completing a transfer to Feyenoord ahead of the 2012/13 season.
He played 74 times for Ronald Koeman’s side, scoring five goals and playing an important part as Feyenoord finished league runners-up during 2013/14.
Speaking to watfordfc.com after completing his move, Janmaat said: "I'm really happy to be here, it's a new adventure for me. I was really pleased that Watford showed interest in me because I wanted to play in the Premier League.
"We [Newcastle] lost three times to Watford last season. They had a good season and I hope we can do the same again this year.
"The club is showing great ambition and wants to improve, and I want to be part of that."[/article]
Roberto Pereyra - Watford (reportedly €13 million plus add ons up to €2 million)
[article]The Hornets are delighted to announce the signing of Argentina international Roberto Pereyra, subject to a work permit.
The 25-year-old attacking midfielder, who has moved to Watford from Serie A champions Juventus, has agreed a five-year deal at Vicarage Road.
Originally a season-long loan signing for the Turin outfit in July 2014, Pereyra made a €14m permanent move the following summer and played nearly 70 matches as Juventus secured back-to-back Serie A and Coppa Italia titles in 2014/15 and 2015/16, scoring six goals in total for the club.
He also featured in the 2015 Champions League final, during a 3-1 defeat to Barcelona in Berlin.
Pereyra began his professional career in Argentina with River Plate before earning a €2m move to Italy with Udinese, where he made 104 outings between 2011 and 2014.
Since making his international debut in October 2014, he has represented Argentina 10 times, including two appearances as Gerardo Martino’s men finished runners-up at the 2015 Copa America.[/article]
Dennis Praet - Sampdoria (reportedly €10 million)
[article]Sampdoria have officially confirmed the signing of Dennis Praet from Anderlecht.
The 23-year-old midfielder arrived in Italy for his medical over the weekend, and to sign a five-year contract worth €1.2m per season.
Despite that, it had not officially been confirmed until this afternoon that the €10m transfer had been done.
“U.C Sampdoria announces the signing of the player Dennis Praet outright from RSC Anderlecht,” a statement on the Blucerchiati’s website confirmed.
It remains to be seen how long Praet’s stay at Marassi will be, however, with rumours that he has a €28m release clause.[/article]
Jordan Veretout - St. Etienne (loan)
Henri Saivet - St. Etienne (loan)
[article]St Etienne have signed midfielders Henri Saivet from Newcastle United and Jordan Veretout from Aston Villa, both on season-long loans.
Frenchman Veretout, 23, who made 21 Premier League starts for Villa last season, was signed last July for £8m from Nantes by Tim Sherwood.
Senegal international Saivet, 25, only made two Newcastle starts after moving for £5m from Bordeaux in January.
Both Villa and Newcastle are now in the Championship following relegation.
Of the players who featured in the Premier League for Villa last season, Veretout is now the eighth to be sold or released.
For both Veretout and Saivet, their respective loan moves to St Etienne mean a return to Ligue 1, the French top flight.[article][/article][/article]
[article]Sampdoria have officially confirmed the signing of Dennis Praet from Anderlecht.
The 23-year-old midfielder arrived in Italy for his medical over the weekend, and to sign a five-year contract worth €1.2m per season.
Despite that, it had not officially been confirmed until this afternoon that the €10m transfer had been done.
“U.C Sampdoria announces the signing of the player Dennis Praet outright from RSC Anderlecht,” a statement on the Blucerchiati’s website confirmed.
It remains to be seen how long Praet’s stay at Marassi will be, however, with rumours that he has a €28m release clause.[/article]
Jordan Veretout - St. Etienne (loan)
Henri Saivet - St. Etienne (loan)
[article]St Etienne have signed midfielders Henri Saivet from Newcastle United and Jordan Veretout from Aston Villa, both on season-long loans.
Frenchman Veretout, 23, who made 21 Premier League starts for Villa last season, was signed last July for £8m from Nantes by Tim Sherwood.
Senegal international Saivet, 25, only made two Newcastle starts after moving for £5m from Bordeaux in January.
Both Villa and Newcastle are now in the Championship following relegation.
Of the players who featured in the Premier League for Villa last season, Veretout is now the eighth to be sold or released.
For both Veretout and Saivet, their respective loan moves to St Etienne mean a return to Ligue 1, the French top flight.[article][/article][/article]
Claudio Bravo - Manchester City (£15.4 million)
[article]City are delighted to announce the signing of Claudio Bravo.
The Chilean goalkeeper joins the Blues from Barcelona after signing a four-year-deal.
Bravo brings with him a wealth of experience including back-to-back La Liga titles with Barca and successive Copa America triumphs with Chile with whom the 33 year-old has won 106 caps and also the captain.
He won his 100th international cap in the Copa America Centenario as Chile beat Argentina in the final on penalties and is the first Chilean to win a century of caps.
Born in Viluco, Chile, Bravo started his career with Colo-Colo, making 123 appearances between 2002 and 2006 before joining Real Sociedad on the recommendation of Xabier Mancisidor who is now City’s goalkeeping coach.
Bravo remained for with The Royals for eight years, clocking up 237 starts – plus one goal against Gimnastic in 2010.
He moved to Barcelona in 2014 and has won eight different title in just two years with the Catalans, playing 75 games and being named in the 2014/15 La Liga Team of the Season.
He was also voted Copa America’s best goalkeeper in 2015 and 2016 as well as earning a place in the Team of the Tournament each time.
A father of four, Bravo said: “I’m very proud to be joining Manchester City. I know the Club is building something very special and I hope I can be part of many successes in the coming years.
“I have followed City’s progress in recent years and obviously know some of my new team-mates from the Copa America.
“It is not easy to leave a club like Barcelona where I had two fantastic years, but the opportunity to work with Pep Guardiola was too good to refuse.
“Now I will challenge the other great goalkeepers the Club has and together I hope we can win many trophies.”
City boss Guardiola added: “Claudio is a fantastic goalkeeper and an excellent addition to our squad.
“He has experience and great leadership qualities and is in the prime of his life. He is a goalkeeper I have admired for a number of years and I’m really happy he is now a City player.”[/article]
Jasper Cillessen - Barcelona (€13 million plus add ons up to €2 million)
[article]FC Barcelona has decided to purchase 27 year old Dutch goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen from Ajax Amsterdam on a five-year contract.
The transfer fee is a guaranteed 13 million euros plus a further two million in variables. Cillessen’s buyout clause has been set at 60 million euros.
The player arrived in Barcelona this morning and after taking a medical examination, he signed his new contract in private.
He will be officially presented as an FC Barcelona tomorrow Friday.[/article]
Tim Krul - Ajax (loan)
[article]Newcastle United goalkeeper Tim Krul has joined Ajax on a season-long loan after signing a new one-year deal with the Magpies.
The 28-year-old Netherlands international has extended his contract with the Championship club until 2018.
He has not played since last October when he ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee.
Krul has joined Ajax after goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen moved to Barcelona to replace Claudio Bravo.[/article]
[article]City are delighted to announce the signing of Claudio Bravo.
The Chilean goalkeeper joins the Blues from Barcelona after signing a four-year-deal.
Bravo brings with him a wealth of experience including back-to-back La Liga titles with Barca and successive Copa America triumphs with Chile with whom the 33 year-old has won 106 caps and also the captain.
He won his 100th international cap in the Copa America Centenario as Chile beat Argentina in the final on penalties and is the first Chilean to win a century of caps.
Born in Viluco, Chile, Bravo started his career with Colo-Colo, making 123 appearances between 2002 and 2006 before joining Real Sociedad on the recommendation of Xabier Mancisidor who is now City’s goalkeeping coach.
Bravo remained for with The Royals for eight years, clocking up 237 starts – plus one goal against Gimnastic in 2010.
He moved to Barcelona in 2014 and has won eight different title in just two years with the Catalans, playing 75 games and being named in the 2014/15 La Liga Team of the Season.
He was also voted Copa America’s best goalkeeper in 2015 and 2016 as well as earning a place in the Team of the Tournament each time.
A father of four, Bravo said: “I’m very proud to be joining Manchester City. I know the Club is building something very special and I hope I can be part of many successes in the coming years.
“I have followed City’s progress in recent years and obviously know some of my new team-mates from the Copa America.
“It is not easy to leave a club like Barcelona where I had two fantastic years, but the opportunity to work with Pep Guardiola was too good to refuse.
“Now I will challenge the other great goalkeepers the Club has and together I hope we can win many trophies.”
City boss Guardiola added: “Claudio is a fantastic goalkeeper and an excellent addition to our squad.
“He has experience and great leadership qualities and is in the prime of his life. He is a goalkeeper I have admired for a number of years and I’m really happy he is now a City player.”[/article]
Jasper Cillessen - Barcelona (€13 million plus add ons up to €2 million)
[article]FC Barcelona has decided to purchase 27 year old Dutch goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen from Ajax Amsterdam on a five-year contract.
The transfer fee is a guaranteed 13 million euros plus a further two million in variables. Cillessen’s buyout clause has been set at 60 million euros.
The player arrived in Barcelona this morning and after taking a medical examination, he signed his new contract in private.
He will be officially presented as an FC Barcelona tomorrow Friday.[/article]
Tim Krul - Ajax (loan)
[article]Newcastle United goalkeeper Tim Krul has joined Ajax on a season-long loan after signing a new one-year deal with the Magpies.
The 28-year-old Netherlands international has extended his contract with the Championship club until 2018.
He has not played since last October when he ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee.
Krul has joined Ajax after goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen moved to Barcelona to replace Claudio Bravo.[/article]
Benjamin Stambouli - Schalke (reportedly €8.5 million)
[article]It’s confirmed! FC Schalke 04 have signed Benjamin Stambouli from Paris Saint-Germain. The former France U21 international has agreed a four-year deal which will run until 30th June 2020. Both clubs have agreed not to disclose further details surrounding the transfer. Stambouli will wear the number 17 for S04.
“We have a very young team and extra experience will be good for them. This is something that Benjamin Stambouli has as he was Montpellier’s captain, has played in the Premier League and is coming to us from PSG as a French Champion,” explained sporting director Christian Heidel.
“When I heard Schalke were interested I was very excited, as I have had a really high opinion of the club since I played here with Montpellier during the 2012 Champions League,” commented new boy Stambouli, who continued: “Sporting director Christian Heidel came to Paris and explained his plans for Schalke and head coach Markus Weinzierl convinced me over the phone about the footballing side of things. I believe that the Bundesliga is the right league for me and I want to contribute with my performances.”
The 26-year-old (born 13th August 1990 in Marseille) made his professional debut for Montpellier in a 1-0 win over Girondins Bordeaux in Ligue 1 on 8th August 2010 and won the French Championship two years later in 2012. He returned to France after a one-year stint in the Premier League with Tottenham Hotspur during the 2014/15 season, joining Paris Saint-Germain, with whom the 1.80 metre tall midfielder won the French Cup, French League Cup the French Ligue 1 and the French Super Cup last season.
Stambouli has played 139 matches (three goals) in Ligue 1 as well as 13 in the French Cup. He made twelve appearances in the English Premier League as well as two in the FA Cup. The midfielder has made six appearances in the Champions League and the Europa League (one goal) respectively. [/article]
David López - Espanyol (reportedly €4.5 million)
[article]Espanyol have officially announced the signing of Napoli midfielder David Lopez.
The Spaniard had originally agreed terms to return to his old club and even flew out for a medical, but the move fell apart.
The Partenopei then tried to do a deal with Real Betis, but that too collapsed and talk were re-opened with Espanyol.
“David López Silva is the eighth signing of Espanyol’s first team for the season 2016-17,” a statement on the Liga club’s website confirmed.
“The Catalan midfielder returns home after leaving two years ago for Napoli.
“RCD Espanyol have reached an agreement for the transfer of the player in the last hours. The Catalan player, who has already passed the medical examination, has signed for the next four seasons up to June 2020 with the possibility of a fifth season contract extension.
“The presentation of the player will be this Monday at 1pm in the Auditorium of the RCDE Stadium, with access restricted to media accredited by the club media department.”[/article]
Salvatore Sirigu - Sevilla (loan)
[article]Italy goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu has officially joined Sevilla on a one-season loan from Paris Saint-Germain.
The 29-year-old shot-stopper flew in for his medical today and signed the contract.
Sevilla announced it was a one-season loan, though there does not appear to be an option to buy.
Sirigu had been linked with a return to Serie A after dropping down the pecking order at PSG.
His Sevilla are in the same Champions League group as Juventus.[/article]
Takuma Asano - VfB Stuttgart (loan)
[article]For the 2016/2017 season, Takuma Asano made the move from the Japanese J-League side Sanfrecce Hiroshima to Arsenal.
Before making the move to Arsenal, the 1,73 meter tall attacker made 93 J-League appearances, scoring 27 goals and providing 13 assists. The striker was a Japanese championship winner with Sanfrecce Hiroshima in 2013 and 2015. In the same year he won the Japanese Young Player of the Year award.
Takuma Asano made his debut in the Japanese national team in August 2015, in a game against North Korea. Since then he has made four further appearance for the national team, scoring one goal. Most recently, Takuma Asano represented his homeland at the Olympic Games in Rio. In three games, he scored two goals.
Takuma Asano will be on duty with Japan for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers against the United Arab Emirates (01.09.) and Thailand (06.09.). Upon his return, he will link up with VfB, for whom he will wear the number 11 jersey.
Jan Schindelmeiser, Sporting Director at VfB Stuttgart: "Takuma is a perfect addition for us up front. He is a danger in front of goal, can shoot with either foot, is fast and agile. The constellation with Hajime Hosogai really helped us to win over Takuma. As did Guido Buchwald, who alerted VfB to Takuma early on. Since then we have had an eye on him. Both the club and the player have lofty ambitions, so the situation now is ideal."
Takuma Asano: "I am looking forward to the task at VfB Stuttgart. Many Japanese players have developed further in the Bundesliga and enjoyed some good experiences – not least at VfB. I also spoke at length with Hajime Hosogai. I want to implement my qualities here and help the club achieve ist goals."[/article]
Edimilson Fernandes - West Ham (reportedly €6.4 million)
[article]West Ham United are delighted to announce the signing of Swiss midfielder Edimilson Fernandes on a four-year contract for an undisclosed fee.
The 20-year-old joins the Hammers from hometown club FC Sion, where he scored in the 2015 Swiss Cup final and featured regularly in the UEFA Europa League last season.
Despite his relative youth, Fernandes has made 66 first-team appearances for Sion, and is looking to make an immediate impact at London Stadium.
“I am really happy to be here at West Ham United,” said Fernandes, who was presented to the Claret and Blue Army ahead of the UEFA Europa League play-off round second-leg tie with Astra Giurgiu. “It is a new challenge for me and now it is down to me to work hard to become a top player.
“I am a player capable of getting the game going and adding excitement to the action on the pitch. I spoke to the manager [Slaven Bilic] and the conversation was very positive and I appreciate this opportunity.
“I had never been to this stadium before, but it is a really magnificent stadium and I will be working to my best to get to the top. It is a large stadium, I have also played at Anfield here in England, but this stadium is really impressive.”
Of Cape Verde and Portuguese descent, Fernandes started his career with FC Fully in Switzerland as a schoolboy. He is the cousin of former Manchester City and Switzerland midfielder Gelson Fernandes.
There, he was spotted by the Sion’s owner and president Christian Constantin, a former goalkeeper for Swiss side Lugano and renowned architect, and signed by the Super League club.
There, he has thrived in recent seasons, making his first-team debut against FC Zurich at the age of 17 years and two months in June 2013.
The 2014/15 season was Fernandes’ breakthrough campaign as he totalled 19 appearances and netted twice in three Swiss Cup ties as Sion defeated FC Basel 3-0 to win the competition for a 13th time.
Last season, still aged just 19, Fernandes featured 39 times in all competitions, including all eight UEFA Europa League ties as Sion finished second in a group behind Liverpool before being edged out 4-3 by Portuguese club Braga in the Round of 32.
Fernandes has been a regular for Sion again this term, starting all five Super League matches and helping his club to a 6-1 Swiss Cup win over Romontois.[/article]
Eduardo - Chelsea (undisclosed fee)
[article]We can today (Thursday) confirm the signing of goalkeeper Eduardo from Dinamo Zagreb.
The 33-year-old was a part of Portugal’s triumphant Euro 2016 squad this summer and joins the Blues on a one-year contract following two seasons with the Croatian champions.
Eduardo said: ‘Having the opportunity to come to the Premier League and to Chelsea, to such a big club, it is an easy decision to make.
‘For me this is the best and the most difficult league and it is another level from where I have been until now. So it is a new challenge, at this moment I feel very good, so I am ready for this.
‘All the colleagues I have always say the dream is to come to the Premier League, where there are the best clubs and the best players, and the opportunity to come here arrived at this moment.
‘I am happy to be here and I hope I meet the expectations people have for me.’
Eduardo, full name Eduardo dos Reis Carvalho, played his youth football at Braga where he made his name as a first-team regular and progressed into the national team, making his Portugal debut in February 2009.
The 6ft 2ins stopper was first choice for his country at the World Cup in 2010, conceding just one goal in four matches. That summer he signed for Serie A side Genoa, where for a season he worked with Chelsea goalkeeping coach Gianluca Spinelli.
Eduardo has 35 international caps in total and will provide experienced cover and competition for Thibaut Courtois and Asmir Begovic.[/article]
[article]It’s confirmed! FC Schalke 04 have signed Benjamin Stambouli from Paris Saint-Germain. The former France U21 international has agreed a four-year deal which will run until 30th June 2020. Both clubs have agreed not to disclose further details surrounding the transfer. Stambouli will wear the number 17 for S04.
“We have a very young team and extra experience will be good for them. This is something that Benjamin Stambouli has as he was Montpellier’s captain, has played in the Premier League and is coming to us from PSG as a French Champion,” explained sporting director Christian Heidel.
“When I heard Schalke were interested I was very excited, as I have had a really high opinion of the club since I played here with Montpellier during the 2012 Champions League,” commented new boy Stambouli, who continued: “Sporting director Christian Heidel came to Paris and explained his plans for Schalke and head coach Markus Weinzierl convinced me over the phone about the footballing side of things. I believe that the Bundesliga is the right league for me and I want to contribute with my performances.”
The 26-year-old (born 13th August 1990 in Marseille) made his professional debut for Montpellier in a 1-0 win over Girondins Bordeaux in Ligue 1 on 8th August 2010 and won the French Championship two years later in 2012. He returned to France after a one-year stint in the Premier League with Tottenham Hotspur during the 2014/15 season, joining Paris Saint-Germain, with whom the 1.80 metre tall midfielder won the French Cup, French League Cup the French Ligue 1 and the French Super Cup last season.
Stambouli has played 139 matches (three goals) in Ligue 1 as well as 13 in the French Cup. He made twelve appearances in the English Premier League as well as two in the FA Cup. The midfielder has made six appearances in the Champions League and the Europa League (one goal) respectively. [/article]
David López - Espanyol (reportedly €4.5 million)
[article]Espanyol have officially announced the signing of Napoli midfielder David Lopez.
The Spaniard had originally agreed terms to return to his old club and even flew out for a medical, but the move fell apart.
The Partenopei then tried to do a deal with Real Betis, but that too collapsed and talk were re-opened with Espanyol.
“David López Silva is the eighth signing of Espanyol’s first team for the season 2016-17,” a statement on the Liga club’s website confirmed.
“The Catalan midfielder returns home after leaving two years ago for Napoli.
“RCD Espanyol have reached an agreement for the transfer of the player in the last hours. The Catalan player, who has already passed the medical examination, has signed for the next four seasons up to June 2020 with the possibility of a fifth season contract extension.
“The presentation of the player will be this Monday at 1pm in the Auditorium of the RCDE Stadium, with access restricted to media accredited by the club media department.”[/article]
Salvatore Sirigu - Sevilla (loan)
[article]Italy goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu has officially joined Sevilla on a one-season loan from Paris Saint-Germain.
The 29-year-old shot-stopper flew in for his medical today and signed the contract.
Sevilla announced it was a one-season loan, though there does not appear to be an option to buy.
Sirigu had been linked with a return to Serie A after dropping down the pecking order at PSG.
His Sevilla are in the same Champions League group as Juventus.[/article]
Takuma Asano - VfB Stuttgart (loan)
[article]For the 2016/2017 season, Takuma Asano made the move from the Japanese J-League side Sanfrecce Hiroshima to Arsenal.
Before making the move to Arsenal, the 1,73 meter tall attacker made 93 J-League appearances, scoring 27 goals and providing 13 assists. The striker was a Japanese championship winner with Sanfrecce Hiroshima in 2013 and 2015. In the same year he won the Japanese Young Player of the Year award.
Takuma Asano made his debut in the Japanese national team in August 2015, in a game against North Korea. Since then he has made four further appearance for the national team, scoring one goal. Most recently, Takuma Asano represented his homeland at the Olympic Games in Rio. In three games, he scored two goals.
Takuma Asano will be on duty with Japan for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers against the United Arab Emirates (01.09.) and Thailand (06.09.). Upon his return, he will link up with VfB, for whom he will wear the number 11 jersey.
Jan Schindelmeiser, Sporting Director at VfB Stuttgart: "Takuma is a perfect addition for us up front. He is a danger in front of goal, can shoot with either foot, is fast and agile. The constellation with Hajime Hosogai really helped us to win over Takuma. As did Guido Buchwald, who alerted VfB to Takuma early on. Since then we have had an eye on him. Both the club and the player have lofty ambitions, so the situation now is ideal."
Takuma Asano: "I am looking forward to the task at VfB Stuttgart. Many Japanese players have developed further in the Bundesliga and enjoyed some good experiences – not least at VfB. I also spoke at length with Hajime Hosogai. I want to implement my qualities here and help the club achieve ist goals."[/article]
Edimilson Fernandes - West Ham (reportedly €6.4 million)
[article]West Ham United are delighted to announce the signing of Swiss midfielder Edimilson Fernandes on a four-year contract for an undisclosed fee.
The 20-year-old joins the Hammers from hometown club FC Sion, where he scored in the 2015 Swiss Cup final and featured regularly in the UEFA Europa League last season.
Despite his relative youth, Fernandes has made 66 first-team appearances for Sion, and is looking to make an immediate impact at London Stadium.
“I am really happy to be here at West Ham United,” said Fernandes, who was presented to the Claret and Blue Army ahead of the UEFA Europa League play-off round second-leg tie with Astra Giurgiu. “It is a new challenge for me and now it is down to me to work hard to become a top player.
“I am a player capable of getting the game going and adding excitement to the action on the pitch. I spoke to the manager [Slaven Bilic] and the conversation was very positive and I appreciate this opportunity.
“I had never been to this stadium before, but it is a really magnificent stadium and I will be working to my best to get to the top. It is a large stadium, I have also played at Anfield here in England, but this stadium is really impressive.”
Of Cape Verde and Portuguese descent, Fernandes started his career with FC Fully in Switzerland as a schoolboy. He is the cousin of former Manchester City and Switzerland midfielder Gelson Fernandes.
There, he was spotted by the Sion’s owner and president Christian Constantin, a former goalkeeper for Swiss side Lugano and renowned architect, and signed by the Super League club.
There, he has thrived in recent seasons, making his first-team debut against FC Zurich at the age of 17 years and two months in June 2013.
The 2014/15 season was Fernandes’ breakthrough campaign as he totalled 19 appearances and netted twice in three Swiss Cup ties as Sion defeated FC Basel 3-0 to win the competition for a 13th time.
Last season, still aged just 19, Fernandes featured 39 times in all competitions, including all eight UEFA Europa League ties as Sion finished second in a group behind Liverpool before being edged out 4-3 by Portuguese club Braga in the Round of 32.
Fernandes has been a regular for Sion again this term, starting all five Super League matches and helping his club to a 6-1 Swiss Cup win over Romontois.[/article]
Eduardo - Chelsea (undisclosed fee)
[article]We can today (Thursday) confirm the signing of goalkeeper Eduardo from Dinamo Zagreb.
The 33-year-old was a part of Portugal’s triumphant Euro 2016 squad this summer and joins the Blues on a one-year contract following two seasons with the Croatian champions.
Eduardo said: ‘Having the opportunity to come to the Premier League and to Chelsea, to such a big club, it is an easy decision to make.
‘For me this is the best and the most difficult league and it is another level from where I have been until now. So it is a new challenge, at this moment I feel very good, so I am ready for this.
‘All the colleagues I have always say the dream is to come to the Premier League, where there are the best clubs and the best players, and the opportunity to come here arrived at this moment.
‘I am happy to be here and I hope I meet the expectations people have for me.’
Eduardo, full name Eduardo dos Reis Carvalho, played his youth football at Braga where he made his name as a first-team regular and progressed into the national team, making his Portugal debut in February 2009.
The 6ft 2ins stopper was first choice for his country at the World Cup in 2010, conceding just one goal in four matches. That summer he signed for Serie A side Genoa, where for a season he worked with Chelsea goalkeeping coach Gianluca Spinelli.
Eduardo has 35 international caps in total and will provide experienced cover and competition for Thibaut Courtois and Asmir Begovic.[/article]
Douglas - Sporting Gijon (loan)
[article]FC Barcelona and Sporting Gijón have reached an agreement for the loan of Douglas to the Asturian club for the rest of the 2016/17 season. Sporting have made a contractual agreement that the player will be actively involved in the team during his loan year.
The Brazilian full back has defended the Barça colours for the last two seasons, appearing in eight games that have ended in four wins and four draws. He joined the club in the 2014/15 season from Sao Paulo and made his debut at Málaga in September 2014. FC Barcelona have won eight major trophies in his time here.[/article]
Sergi Samper - Granada (loan)
[article]FC Barcelona and Granada CF have reached an agreement for the loan of the player Sergi Samper for the season 2016/17. The Andalusian club will take over the player’s contractual conditions during the season and are committed to contractually to making sure the player participates actively during his loan period.
Samper joined the FCBEscola at the age of six. Since then he has gradually progressed through the youth ranks as far as Barça B where he played three seasons, making 103 appearances.
His excellent performances caught the attention of Luis Enrique and Samper was handed a first team debut in a 1-0 victory against APOEL at Camp Nou in the Champions League in 2014. Since then he has played a total of 12 games with the first team. [/article]
Alberto Aquilani - Pescara (free transfer)
[article]FC Barcelona and Sporting Gijón have reached an agreement for the loan of Douglas to the Asturian club for the rest of the 2016/17 season. Sporting have made a contractual agreement that the player will be actively involved in the team during his loan year.
The Brazilian full back has defended the Barça colours for the last two seasons, appearing in eight games that have ended in four wins and four draws. He joined the club in the 2014/15 season from Sao Paulo and made his debut at Málaga in September 2014. FC Barcelona have won eight major trophies in his time here.[/article]
Sergi Samper - Granada (loan)
[article]FC Barcelona and Granada CF have reached an agreement for the loan of the player Sergi Samper for the season 2016/17. The Andalusian club will take over the player’s contractual conditions during the season and are committed to contractually to making sure the player participates actively during his loan period.
Samper joined the FCBEscola at the age of six. Since then he has gradually progressed through the youth ranks as far as Barça B where he played three seasons, making 103 appearances.
His excellent performances caught the attention of Luis Enrique and Samper was handed a first team debut in a 1-0 victory against APOEL at Camp Nou in the Champions League in 2014. Since then he has played a total of 12 games with the first team. [/article]
Alberto Aquilani - Pescara (free transfer)
Matej Vydra - Derby County (reportedly £8 million)
[article]Derby County have today strengthened their attacking options with the signing of Czech Republic international striker Matěj Vydra.
Vydra, 24, joins Derby from Premier League side Watford for an undisclosed fee on a four-year deal until the summer of 2020.
The frontman becomes Derby’s second summer signing following the arrival of Manchester United’s James Wilson on a season-long loan deal last weekend.
Vydra is a proven goalscorer at Championship level and was part of the Watford side that gained promotion to the Premier League in 2015.
Manager Nigel Pearson said: “We’re really pleased to sign Matěj Vydra – we hope that he will bring goals and energy to the team.
“His ability to exploit space with his pace is good and something that we need, while his goals record is pretty healthy as well.
“I hope that another fresh face will provide a lift to the dressing room. Without wanting to pile any pressure on him, coming into a new challenge here at Derby County, we hope that he can be the catalyst for us to start bringing some more positive results, which are obviously something that we need.
“We’ve brought James Wilson in as well from Manchester United recently and we hope that the two of them will give us different options up front and help us, as a team, to win more games.”
Vydra began his playing career in his homeland with first Vysočina Jihlava and then Baník Ostrava before linking up with Italian side Udinese in 2010.
The majority of his time at Udinese was spent out on loan, first at Belgian side Club Brugge in 2011/12 before he moved to England in the summer of 2012.
He scored 22 times in all competitions during a season-long loan Watford, then in the Championship, in 2012/13 as they reached the Play-Off Final, losing to Crystal Palace, and was named as the Championship’s Player of the Season.
Vydra was on the move again in 2013/14, spending the entire campaign on loan at West Bromwich Albion in the Premier League. He was mainly used as a substitute, starting seven games and coming off the bench on 16 occasions, and found the back of the net three times.
He returned to Watford in another season-long loan deal during the summer of 2014 and hit the back of the net 16 times as the Hornets secured automatic promotion to the Premier League. He scored a number of crucial goals over the course of the campaign, including an injury-time strike against Brighton & Hove Albion to secure promotion.
Vydra secured a permanent move to Watford last summer after scoring 38 goals in 85 Championship appearances - including play-offs - for the Hornets, but made just one League Cup appearance before spending the entire campaign back in English football’s second tier at Reading. He scored nine times in 36 outings before returning to Vicarage Road.
Vydra came off the bench in Watford’s Premier League defeat to Chelsea last weekend as well as featuring in their EFL Cup Round Two tie against Gillingham in midweek.
On the international scene, Vyrda has scored five times in 17 appearances for his country after playing at various youth levels before making the step up to the full side.[/article]
[article]Derby County have today strengthened their attacking options with the signing of Czech Republic international striker Matěj Vydra.
Vydra, 24, joins Derby from Premier League side Watford for an undisclosed fee on a four-year deal until the summer of 2020.
The frontman becomes Derby’s second summer signing following the arrival of Manchester United’s James Wilson on a season-long loan deal last weekend.
Vydra is a proven goalscorer at Championship level and was part of the Watford side that gained promotion to the Premier League in 2015.
Manager Nigel Pearson said: “We’re really pleased to sign Matěj Vydra – we hope that he will bring goals and energy to the team.
“His ability to exploit space with his pace is good and something that we need, while his goals record is pretty healthy as well.
“I hope that another fresh face will provide a lift to the dressing room. Without wanting to pile any pressure on him, coming into a new challenge here at Derby County, we hope that he can be the catalyst for us to start bringing some more positive results, which are obviously something that we need.
“We’ve brought James Wilson in as well from Manchester United recently and we hope that the two of them will give us different options up front and help us, as a team, to win more games.”
Vydra began his playing career in his homeland with first Vysočina Jihlava and then Baník Ostrava before linking up with Italian side Udinese in 2010.
The majority of his time at Udinese was spent out on loan, first at Belgian side Club Brugge in 2011/12 before he moved to England in the summer of 2012.
He scored 22 times in all competitions during a season-long loan Watford, then in the Championship, in 2012/13 as they reached the Play-Off Final, losing to Crystal Palace, and was named as the Championship’s Player of the Season.
Vydra was on the move again in 2013/14, spending the entire campaign on loan at West Bromwich Albion in the Premier League. He was mainly used as a substitute, starting seven games and coming off the bench on 16 occasions, and found the back of the net three times.
He returned to Watford in another season-long loan deal during the summer of 2014 and hit the back of the net 16 times as the Hornets secured automatic promotion to the Premier League. He scored a number of crucial goals over the course of the campaign, including an injury-time strike against Brighton & Hove Albion to secure promotion.
Vydra secured a permanent move to Watford last summer after scoring 38 goals in 85 Championship appearances - including play-offs - for the Hornets, but made just one League Cup appearance before spending the entire campaign back in English football’s second tier at Reading. He scored nine times in 36 outings before returning to Vicarage Road.
Vydra came off the bench in Watford’s Premier League defeat to Chelsea last weekend as well as featuring in their EFL Cup Round Two tie against Gillingham in midweek.
On the international scene, Vyrda has scored five times in 17 appearances for his country after playing at various youth levels before making the step up to the full side.[/article]
Manuel Pellegrini - Hebei Fortune (Manager)
[article]Former Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini has been appointed by China's Hebei Fortune, the club announced on social media.
"Welcome Pellegrini", the club -- which is based in the northeastern port town of Qinhuangdao -- posted on China's Twitter-like Sina Weibo, together with a picture of the Chilean.
Pellegrini, 62, who has managed clubs including Real Madrid and Malaga, has been without a team since he left Manchester City, where he spent three seasons. He was replaced by Pep Guardiola this summer.
He is the latest significant signing by a Chinese Super League team, many of whom have spent lavishly to attract star players from abroad.
Hebei have recently splashed out 18 million euros for Roma forward Gervinho and 5.5 million euros for Paris Saint-Germain's Ezequiel Lavezzi.
Other well-known managers in China include the Brazilian Luiz Felipe Scolari at Guangzhou Evergrande and Swede Sven-Goran Eriksson at Shanghai SIPG.[/article]
[article]Former Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini has been appointed by China's Hebei Fortune, the club announced on social media.
"Welcome Pellegrini", the club -- which is based in the northeastern port town of Qinhuangdao -- posted on China's Twitter-like Sina Weibo, together with a picture of the Chilean.
Pellegrini, 62, who has managed clubs including Real Madrid and Malaga, has been without a team since he left Manchester City, where he spent three seasons. He was replaced by Pep Guardiola this summer.
He is the latest significant signing by a Chinese Super League team, many of whom have spent lavishly to attract star players from abroad.
Hebei have recently splashed out 18 million euros for Roma forward Gervinho and 5.5 million euros for Paris Saint-Germain's Ezequiel Lavezzi.
Other well-known managers in China include the Brazilian Luiz Felipe Scolari at Guangzhou Evergrande and Swede Sven-Goran Eriksson at Shanghai SIPG.[/article]
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