Confirmed Transfers (2017/18)

[King Binny]

Vincenzo Grifo - Borussia Mönchengladbach (reportedly £5.1 million)

[article]Borussia Mönchengladbach have signed Vincenzo Grifo from SC Freiburg, with the 24-year-old attacking midfielder penning a deal with the club that will run until June 2022.

Grifo came through the ranks at VfR Pforzheim in north-west Baden-Württemberg. Apart from a brief spell at Germania Brötzingen, he worked his way through all of the youth teams at VfR, which later merged with 1. FC Pforzheim to form 1. CfR Pforzheim. He fired their U19s to the Verbandsliga title in 2010, scoring 53 goals from the no.10 position. He then joined Karlsruher SC in the U19 Bundesliga for a year, before moving on to TSG Hoffenheim. He nailed down a starting spot with their reserves in the 2012/13 Regionalliga season, scoring five goals in his opening six games. Then TSG coach Markus Babbel brought him into the first-team squad as a result. Grifo made his Bundesliga debut in a 3-3 draw with SpVgg Greuther Fürth on 19th October 2012, before going on to make a further eleven top-flight appearances for Hoffenheim that season.

During the first half of the 2013/14 season, Grifo appeared eight times for Hoffenheim’s U23s before being loaned out to Dynamo Dresden. He spent most of his time there on the wing, scoring one goal in 13 second division games. He also appeared four times for Italy’s U20s – his Father comes from Sicily and his Mother from Lecce. Hoffenheim loaned Grifo out again during the 2014/15 season, this time to FSV Frankfurt. He became a key player for the side from Hessen and helped them remain in the division with seven goals and nine assists in 33 matches.

SC Freiburg acquired the services of Grifo and he had a hand in 29 goals as the side from Breisgau won promotion to the Bundesliga. Grifo became something of a set-piece specialist at Freiburg and led the second division’s assists chart with 15. He also scored 15 goals including six direct free-kicks. The strong dribbler adapted well to the Bundesliga: scoring six goals and getting twelve assists. He also missed three weeks of the season after suffering ligament damage in his right knee. He came back into the side towards the end of the season, playing the final three games and getting one more assist.[/article]

Andrea Stramaccioni - Sparta Prague (Manager)

[article]Andrea Stramaccioni will be the manager in the upcoming season, as the current coaching staff led the team for the last time on Saturday against Slovácko.

Stramaccioni signed a 2-year deal on Saturday. He will soon be joined by his colleagues from Italy, but will also have the chance to cooperate with current coaching as well.

41 years old coach had led youth teams of AS Roma or Internazionale. With Internazionale juniors, he won the 2012 NextGen series, the predecessor of the UEFA Youth League. On the senior level, Stramaccioni led Internazionale, Udinese and Panathinaikos.

In previous days, Stramaccioni had the chance to see the team facilities both at the GENERALI Arena and at the Strahov training ground, having the chance to meet some of the team employees. In the upcoming weeks, the manager is going to focus on the squad management together with the board.[/article]

Joaquín Caparros - Al Ahli (Head Coach)


Gennaro Gattuso - AC Milan (Primavera Head Coach)

[article]
The legendary Red and Black No 8, is back with AC Milan after his farewell to professional football in 2012. A new adventure is about to begin for Gennaro Gattuso, as he has been appointed as the new Milan Primavera coach. And the newly named manager held a press conference, today at Casa Milan, together with the Club's CEO, Marco Fassone, the Sporting Director, Massimiliano Mirabelli, Filippo Galli, and Franco Baresi. And it was our CEO who introduced Gattuso, explaining the club's decision to take on this new course.

"It's a pleasure to be here today. I want to welcome Rino back home. The Youth Sector is our point of strength. Rino immediately showed his great love for these colours, his Red and Black DNA, he accepted with great enthusiasm. He will do great. He will be managing the Primavera and will be of great help in instilling the Red and Black DNA in our youngsters. I want to thank him and wish him the best of luck".

It was then time for Rino Gattuso to answer the questions of the media gathered in the press conference room at Casa Milan:

PROUD TO BE BACK
"I had other offers but I am proud to be back home, where I spent thirteen great years. I have a great task ahead of me, to instil AC Milan DNA in our youngsters, make them understand what it means to wear the Red and Black jersey. I'm here to give something more to the Primavera team. I think the sense of belonging must tart from our youngsters".

OBJECTIVE
"I feel I have a great responsibility. I am very happy, I really want to do well with these youngsters. My goal is to make them become great professional players. In the past couple of years at Pisa, I played with many youngsters - class 1997-1998 - and these years have helped me a lot. Here at AC Milan, I can focus on only on the pitch, on coaching the boys. This year hasn't been great for the Primavera, but we have great talents in our Youth Sector. We can achieve good results".

ATTITUDE
"I have seen youngsters playing football just because it's fun. Lack of commitment is something I don't want to see because they have to understand it's a privilege. I want my players to work hard and take it seriously. I had the pleasure to play with Costacurta, Maldini, Albertini. They were my role models, just by looking at how they trained, at their attitude. We need to pass on this mentality to our youngsters".

MONTELLA
"I think Montella is a great manager. He's the one who managed to bring this club back into Europe I like his style of play. In these 4-5 years, my teams have played better defensively and lacked something in the las 20-30 metres. I can learn a lot from him".

AC MILAN
"I chose to come here because the Club has shown they really wanted me. Is this a step back in my career? Not at all, just look at the facilities we have. These two years will help me improve".

DONNARUMMA
"Gigio is a very important player, with twenty years of career still ahead of him. He could become an AC Milan legend. I hope that he will stay with us because he's a great player that can be an added value for this team".

THE NEW OWNERSHIP
"The new management is doing something important. If I am here it's because they really wanted me to come back".
[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Juan Carlos Unzue - Celta Vigo (Head Coach)

[article]Celta Vigo have confirmed that Juan Carlos Unzue will be the club's coach for the next two seasons. Until now Luis Enrique's No.2, Unzue will take on a new challenge at Balaidos.

He will be joined on the adventure by Luis Enrique's staff, with Celta explaining: "With Unzue, Robert Moreno (assistant manager), Rafel Pol (fitness coach) and Joaquin Valdes (phycologist) will also return to the club."

All four 'return' because they spent the 2013/14 season in Vigo working with Luis Enrique. They then left the club when the Asturian coach was appointed as the Barcelona boss in 2015.

Unzue had been sounded out for the Barcelona job after Luis Enrique announced his departure in February. It will not be, though, and he will instead replace Eduardo Berizzo, who was unable to agree a new deal with Celta. [/article]

 

[King Binny]

Jim Stewart - Nottingham Forest (Goalkeeping Coach)

[article]
Nottingham Forest are delighted to confirm that Jim Stewart has joined the club as first-team goalkeeping coach.

The Scotsman links up with The Reds after leaving Glasgow Rangers where he had spent close to ten years.

Stewart began his playing career at Kilmarnock, before spells at Middlesbrough and Rangers and he also earned two caps for Scotland.

His coaching career has taken him to Kilmarnock and Hearts before joining Rangers in 2007, a role he held while also helping out on the international scene with the Scottish youth set up.

Manager Mark Warburton said he is delighted to welcome Stewart to the club and that his experience will be vital across all age groups at the club

He said: “I am delighted to welcome Jim Stewart as our new goalkeeping coach. Jim has a wealth of coaching and playing experience and has been heavily involved in the coaching education programme in Scotland at the very highest level.

“As goalkeeping coach to the Scottish national team, he is used to working with international players and is widely respected for his knowledge, delivery and professionalism.

“Jim will be working directly with the first-team goalkeepers but will also be able to assist in the goalkeeping curriculum that is delivered down through the age groups which will be extremely beneficial to the young players and academy coaches. I have no doubt Jim will make an invaluable contribution to the football department.”
[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Ruben Duarte - Alaves (reportedly €500k)

 

[King Binny]

Ernesto Valverde - Barcelona (Head Coach)

 

[King Binny]

José Ángel Ziganda - Athletic Bilbao (Head Coach)

[article]Jose Angel ‘Cuco’ Ziganda has been appointed Coach of Athletic Bilbao, replacing Ernesto Valverde, who is reported to be Barcelona-bound.

The 50-year-old, previously Coach of Bilbao Athletic, has signed a two-year deal to succeed Ernesto Valverde, whose departure after four years in charge was confirmed on Tuesday.

"Jose Angel Ziganda will be the new coach of Athletic Club for the next two seasons," a statement from Los Leones confirmed.

Ziganda netted 76 La Liga goals in over 250 appearances between 1991 and 1998 for Los Leones and was capped twice by Spain during his playing career; he has coached at both Osasuna and Xerez before returning to the setup at San Mames six years ago.

His introductory press conference at San Mames is scheduled for 12pm CET on Thursday.[/article]

Quique Setien - Real Betis (Head Coach)

[article]Real Betis have confirmed the appointment of former Las Palmas Coach Quique Setien on a contract lasting until June 2020.

The former Spain international coached Los Amarillos for 18 months after previous stints at Racing Santander, Logrones, Lugo and the Equatorial Guinea national side.

The 58-year-old is renowned for playing attacking football with a focus on ability and skill, but reportedly fell out with Las Palmas president Miguel Angel Ramirez over the January signings of Jese Rodriguez and Alen Halilovic.

"Yesterday I was in yellow and now I am in Green,” read a post from Setien on his twitter account.

“I was sad yesterday for what I am leaving behind and now I am happy for what I am going to.”

Betis endured a tough season with the sackings of Gus Poyet and Victor Sanchez del Amo, finishing 15th in La Liga.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Nuno Espirito Santo - Wolves (Head Coach)

[article]
Wolves are delighted to announce the arrival of Nuno Espiríto Santo as the club’s new Head Coach.

Nuno takes over in the Molineux hotseat after guiding Porto to a second placed finish last season, and the last 16 of the Champions League.

Prior to that the 43-year-old spent 18 months at Valencia where he guided them to a fourth placed finish.

A goalkeeper capped at Portugal Under-21 level in his playing days, Nuno started his coaching career with Rio Ave, taking them to the Portuguese Cup and League Cup semi finals, and the Europa League for the first time in the club’s history.

Also arriving with Nuno are three new coaches as part of a revamped Wolves’ backroom staff.

Rui Pedro Silva arrives as assistant head coach, Rui Barbosa as goalkeeping coach and Antonio Dias as fitness coach.

Wolves main director Jeff Shi says: “I first got to know Nuno two years ago, and, at that time, we hadn’t taken over Wolves.

“But when talking to him, I was impressed by his football tactics.

“Since the very beginning of the Wolves project, Fosun has been very clear on our strategic thinking and philosophy, and has huge ambition and confidence to achieve our goals.

“In a sense, we are very glad to find Nuno with a football philosophy that is similar to ours.

“He has an impressive track record in the top divisions in Spain and Portugal, and took Porto to the knockout stages of the Champions League last season.

“We are all looking forward to working with Nuno and his staff, and are excited about what he can achieve with Wolves as we go into the new season and beyond.”

Wolves would like to welcome Nuno and the new backroom team to Molineux and wish them well in their respective roles.

Nuno will be introduced to the media at a press conference tomorrow morning.
[/article]


Ryan Bennett - Wolves (free transfer)

[article]
Wolves are delighted to confirm the arrival of Ryan Bennett on a three-year-deal.

Bennett will join on Saturday, 1st July as a free agent after the contract with his current club, Norwich City, expires at the end of June.

The defender made 96 appearances for the Canaries after joining from Peterborough United in January 2012, 39 of which came in Premier League between 2012 and 2014.

He began his career at youth level with Ipswich Town before joining Grimsby Town in 2006 where he would go on to make over 100 appearances for the Mariners.

Discussing Wolves' latest arrival Sporting Director, Kevin Thelwell, said: “He’s a player that we’ve known for a long time. He’s got a lot of experience.

“He's played in the Championship which is important, but he’s also played in the Premier League.

“I think he’s been unfortunate to not play as games as he should have done at Norwich.

“With him being out of contract, he seems like a really solid take for us.

“We know him as a good guy and we think he’s going to add value to the football club."

The defender discussed the reasons behind his Molineux move, he said: “You speak to people and this club’s stood out with the ambition and the way they're going to move forward.

"That’s what stood out to me and it’s something that I want to be part of.

“I’m not going to sit here and lie about it - that's the reason I’ve come here, I don't want to sit and play in the Championship really.

"That’s what we’re going to try and do, we’re going to try and get promoted from the Championship this year.

“I’ve played in the Premier League and that's something that everyone wants to do.

“I’m lucky enough to have done it but I want to do it again - you won’t speak to anyone who’s done it, who doesn't want to do it again.

"You will see the ambition that’s going to come out from the club and the way that things are going to move forward and you’ll notice that within the first few months of the season."
[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Klaas Jan Huntelaar‏ - Ajax (free transfer)

[article]Ajax has reached an agreement with Klaas Jan Huntelaar. In Amsterdam, the centre forward has signed an contract for one season, until June 30, 2018.

Huntelaar was born on August 12, 1983, in Voor-Drempt. He previously played with Ajax between 2006 and 2008. The centre forward made his debut in Amsterdam on January 16, 2006, in the Ajax – NEC (1-1) match and played a total of 136 official matches, in which he scored 105 goals. In 2006 and 2007, Huntelaar won both the KNVB Cup and the Johan Cruijff Shield with Ajax. During his career, he has also played for De Graafschap, PSV, AGOVV, SC Heerenveen, Real Madrid and AC Milan. For the past seven seasons (2011-2017), the forward has played at Schalke 04. He has played in 238 official matches, and scored 126 goals. Huntelaar has played for the Dutch national team 76 times, and has scored 42 goals.

Director of player policy Marc Overmars: “I’m pleased that Klaas Jan has chosen Ajax, because we’ve been interested in him for several years. Bertrand Traoré is returning to Chelsea and our selection needs two good centre forwards for next season. With Klaas Jan, we’re bringing in a experienced player who knows the club very well. He’s fit and, most importantly, he’s eager to be successful with Ajax, while at the same time, he knows what to expect. Kasper Dolberg is our first centre forward. But I know that Klaas Jan will play an important role at Ajax, both on and off the field.”

'It’s no secret that Ajax is my club'
Klaas Jan Huntelaar: “It’s no secret that Ajax is my club. So I’m extremely happy to come back here. My role is clear, but I’m not coming here to slow down. Last season, Ajax played almost sixty official matches. You can’t do that with just one centre forward. So I’m going to get playing time. I feel very fit and I’m already looking forward to starting preparations at the end of June. I’ve won trophies with Ajax, but not the championship. The goal at the end of the season is to hoist that trophy up with the team.”[/article]


Darren Fletcher - Stoke City (free transfer)

[article]STOKE CITY are delighted to announce the signing of Scotland international Darren Fletcher on a two-year deal.

The vastly experienced midfielder will officially join the Club on July 1, following the expiration of his existing contract with West Bromwich Albion.

Fletcher, who made 97 appearances in all competitions for the Baggies, has opted to join Mark Hughes’ side this summer at the expense of prolonging his stay at the Hawthorns.

Announcing the news, Chief Executive Tony Scholes told stokecityfc.com: “Darren has a vast amount of Premier League experience and has been an ever present in the Premier League for the last two seasons.

"He is a player with clear leadership qualities as he has demonstrated playing for Manchester United, West Brom and Scotland and when we became aware of his availability we wanted to move quickly to tie him up.”

Speaking moments after putting pen-to-paper, Fletcher added: “It’s all happened incredibly quickly, but I am delighted to be here.

“This is a fantastic Club with a top manager and a great group of players and I am really looking forward to this opportunity.

“I loved every moment of my time at West Bromwich Albion and I loved every moment of my time with Manchester United, but this is a new challenge for me now, and I like to think I respond well to new challenges.”

The 33-year-old was handed the captaincy by Tony Pulis shortly after his arrival from Manchester United in February 2015, and went on to establish himself as an almost ever present in his starting 11 in each of the past two Premier League campaigns.

His impressive form for West Bromwich Albion came on the back of a hugely successful 13-year period under Sir Alex Ferguson at Old Trafford.

Fletcher lifted numerous titles during his trophy-laden spell in Manchester, helping the club to five Premier League crowns, two League Cups an FA Cup and the coveted Champions League.

The tenacious midfielder is currently preparing for Scotland’s vital 2018 World Cup Qualifier against England at Hampden Park next week, where he could line-up against new Potters teammate Jack Butland. [/article]

Roberto Mancini - Zenit St. Petersburg (Head Coach)

[article]Roberto Mancini was born on 27 November 1964 in Jesi, Italy and in the 1996/97 season he was voted Serie A player of the season. Mancini started his professional career at Bologna, playing 30 matches and scoring 9 goals.

From 1982 to 1997, he played up front for Sampdoria where he represented the Genoa-based club 424 times, scoring 132 goals and winning the Serie A league title, four Coppa Italias, and the European Cup Winners' Cup. He also twice won the player of the season award from Guerin Sportivo.

Mancini made his debut for Italy in May 1984 in a 2-0 win over Canada and went on to represent the Azzurri 36 times, scoring 4 goals. With Mancini in the squad Italy took third place at both Euro 1988 and their home 1990 World Cup.

In 1997, Mancini moved to Lazio, with whom he won his second Serie A title, two Italian Cups, the last-ever Cup Winners Cup and the UEFA Super Cup. In January 2001, the Italian star moved to Leicester, where he spent a month and ended his career aged 36.

Mancini’s coaching career began in 2000, becoming an assistant to Sven-Goran Eriksson at Lazio before making the move to Fiorentina as head coach where he won the Coppa Italia in his only season.

Mancini retuned to Lazio and took the helm as manager for the next two years, again winning the Coppa Italia. In 2004 Roberto was appointed manager of Inter, where he spent the most successful stage of his coaching career. Under his leadership, the team won the Serie A title three times in a row, as well as twice winning the Coppa Italia and the Italian Super Cup once.

In December 2009, Mancini became the manager of Manchester City. In his first season he won the FA Cup, which was the club’s first trophy in 35 years. In May 2012, City won their first Premier League title and the club’s first league title since 1968. A few months later Mancini won his third English trophy, the F.A. Community Shield.

From 2013 to 2014 Roberto coached Turkish side Galatasaray, where he again won the country’s Cup. In November 2014 he returned to the Italy to manager Inter once again and spent two years in charge at the San Siro before departing in August 2016.

Zenit Football Club welcomes Roberto Mancini to St. Petersburg and wishes him all the best as head coach of the blue-white-sky blue![/article]

 

[King Binny]

Mateo Musacchio - AC Milan (reportedly €18 million)

[article]Mateo Musacchio says goodbye to Villarreal, and discusses his “amazing reception at Milan”.

It was officially confirmed yesterday that the centre-back has signed for the Rossoneri, the first arrival of the new Chinese ownership.

Today the Argentinian international held a Press conference to say goodbye, having been with the Spanish club since 2009.

“If I had to thank everyone at this club one-by-one, I’d never finish,” Musacchio told the assembled journalists.

“These have been eight incredible years. At Villarreal I’ve had incredible experiences, I thought it would be easier to say goodbye.

“I want to tell everyone that from today Villarreal will have one more fan. I came here at 18 and I was formed as a person and a player.

“I don’t regret everything, it’s all been wonderful. Now I’m waiting for this new challenge, I’m going to a great club to continue to grow.

“I hope I can give Milan so much, just as Villarreal have given me so much. After all these seasons, the time has come to leave.

“I received an incredible reception at Milan. The medicals went well, and when I get back I’ll start exploring the city.”[/article]

Frank Kessie - AC Milan (2 yr loan + obligation to buy for reportedly €28 million)

[article]Milan have announced the signing of Atalanta midfielder Franck Kessie on a two-year loan.

Milan’s official Twitter account has also confirmed that Kessie’s arrangement will turn permanent in 2019, with the player finally passing a medical after a minor hold-up.

“AC Milan announce that they have acquired, from Atalanta, the sporting rights of Franck Kessie, who has signed a contract until June 30, 2019,” read a statement on the Rossoneri’s official website.

“The contract is a two-year loan, with the obligation of a permanent transfer for the Ivorian player.”

The 20-year-old Ivorian scored six goals in 30 appearances for Atalanta, who finished fourth in Serie A last season.

He had been linked with a number top European sides, including Roma and English champions Chelsea, but instead becomes Milan’s second major signing of the summer after Mateo Musacchio.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Antero Henrique - PSG (Sports Director)

[article]Paris Saint-Germain is delighted to announce that Antero Henrique has joined the club as Sports Director. He took up his new role on June 2nd, 2017.

Under the leadership of Paris Saint-Germain Chairman and CEO Nasser Al-Khelaifi, Antero Henrique is charged with instilling a new dynamic in the sports strategy of the Club to maximise the first-team's competitiveness and reinforce the capacity of the Club to detect, recruit and develop the stars of tomorrow.

Born in Vinhais in the north of Portugal, the 49-year-old forged his career at FC Porto; joining the club in 1990 and climbing all the way to vice-president, before leaving in September 2016.

Antero Henrique is recognised throughout Europe for creating an extensive global scouting network that enabled him to discover numerous international talents and established FC Porto as one of the best structured clubs on the continent.

"I am extremely happy and honoured by the confidence Nasser Al-Khelaifi has shown in me," said Antero Henrique. "Paris Saint-Germain has entrusted me with important sporting responsibilities and I intend to work hard to meet those expectations. I cannot wait to put my experience to good use for the Club – that in just a few years, has become one of the best in Europe. My ambition, my motivation, is to work every day to create a winning dynamic able to keep Paris Saint-Germain at the highest level in the long term.

"It is with great satisfaction that I welcome Antero Henrique to our Club," declared Paris Saint-Germain Chairman and CEO Nasser Al-Khelaifi. "Antero will bring his great knowledge and experience of football with him. We are confident in his capacity to help Paris Saint-Germain achieve the ambitious objectives that we set on and off the pitch. Our new Sports Director is a reference in his field in Europe. He has the personality and the ability to further develop the Club as one of the most respected and high performing sports institutions in the world.” [/article]

 

[Kay Age El]

Ajax have signed the 17-year-old attacking midfielder Victor Jensen from FC Copenhagen for a fee of €3.5M Euros.

Not played a single game yet at senior level.

 

[King Binny]

Bruno Alves - Rangers (free transfer)

[article]RANGERS Football Club is delighted to confirm that Bruno Alves has become Pedro Caixinha’s first signing this summer after agreeing a two-year deal.

The vastly experienced Portuguese centre half has enjoyed a glittering career at club level and with his national team and will be a leader on the pitch as the Light Blues prepare for a second season back in Scottish football’s top flight.

A player with a strong character and winning mentality, Alves started his career at Porto and had loan spells with Farense, Vitória de Guimarães and AEK Athens before returning to the Dragons and cementing his place in their first team.

From there he bagged nine major honours, including four Primeira Liga titles, before he joined Zenit Saint Petersburg in August 2010 for €22 million.

In Russia he won two Premier League titles and the country’s Super Cup before agreeing to move to Turkish side Fenerbahce in June 2013 for a reported fee of €5.5 million.

And in his first season in Istanbul he enjoyed more success, helping the club win the Super Lig and the Turkish Super Cup after a victory over Galatasaray in August 2014.

Two years later Serie A side Cagliari announced the signing of Alves with a statement which read: “The Rossoblu have ensured the presence on the pitch of a real warrior, who is used to facing the toughest strikers in the world and will bring great aggressiveness, personality, technique and boundless physical power.”

After a year in Italy the 35-year-old will now add Rangers to the impressive list of clubs he has played for and Pedro Caixinha will be delighted to have on board a 6’ 2” defender who has played at the very highest level.

Just 12 months ago Alves – who has made 89 international appearances and scored 11 goals – was in the Portugal squad which won the European Championships in France, his country’s first ever major trophy.

He played in the 2-0 semi-final victory over Wales in the Parc Olympique Lyonnais, taking the place of injured Real Madrid star Pepe.[/article]

Ryan Jack - Rangers (free transfer)

[article]RANGERS Football Club is delighted to confirm the signing of 25-year-old midfielder Ryan Jack on a three-year deal.

The talented Scot becomes Pedro Caixinha’s second signing for the Light Blues following the arrival of Portuguese defender Bruno Alves yesterday.

Jack made 250 appearances, scoring 11 goals, for Aberdeen after coming through their youth system and making his first-team debut in a League Cup clash against Raith Rovers in September 2010.

A Scotland youth international from under-16 level through to the under-21s, he was a member of the Aberdeen team which won the League Cup in 2014 with a penalty shootout victory over Inverness Caley Thistle at Celtic Park.

At the start of the 2015/16 campaign, and at the age of just 23, he was then named as the club’s new captain following Russell Anderson’s retirement.

An influential player on and off the park, Jack made 38 appearances for Derek McInnes’ side last season, netting two goals. He moves to Ibrox on a free transfer following the end of his contract at Pittodrie.

Pedro Caixinha said: “I believe 25 is a great age for him to come here. He had three years as captain of Aberdeen and has that experience, he also understands what it means to represent Rangers.”[/article]

José Luis Oltra - Granada (Manager)

[article]José Luis Oltra has been appointed as the new manager of Granada CF. The Valencian coach will lead the first team squad during the 2017-18 campaign, along with the possibility of extending his tenure for an additional season.

Joining Oltra at the club are new incorporations within the coaching staff, including Emilio José Isierte Aguilar as assistant manager, plus Marcos Chena Sinovas as fitness coach.[/article]

Haris Seferovic - Benfica (free transfer)

5 yr contract

 

[King Binny]

Dan-Axel Zagadou - Dortmund (free transfer)

[article]Eight-time German champions Borussia Dortmund, who have qualified for the 2017/18 Champions League, have signed the talented French youngster Dan-Axel Zagadou, 18, from top Ligue 1 outfit Paris St. Germain ahead of the coming season.

The 1.95-metre tall defensive specialist, whose contract in Paris had expired, is regarded as one of France's top footballing talents and is now a key component of their U18 side, having represented Les Bleus at all youth levels and also worn the captain's armband. Zagadou, whose services had been sought by a number of Europe's top clubs, is strong into the tackle and in the air, and possesses an excellent left foot which he uses to play the ball out from the back.

"Dan-Axel Zagadou will be a full member of our professional squad from July. We have conducted this transfer with the future in mind, are fully convinced of the player's abilities and look forward to helping him to take the next steps of his footballing development as a BVB first-team player," emphasised Borussia Dortmund's Sporting Director Michael Zorc.

"I made the conscious decision to sign for BVB because they are a top club that repeatedly succeed in integrating young players into the first team and continue to develop them at the highest level," said Zagadou, adding: "I'm very excited aboutt my new team-mates, the impressive stadium, the famous fans and really hope to mature into an established professional footballer in Dortmund!"

Zagadou has signed a five-year contract until 30 June 2022.[/article]

Vitor Hugo - Fiorentina (reportedly €8 million)

[article]Fiorentina have replaced the departing Gonzalo Rodriguez by signing Brazilian defender Vitor Hugo from Palmeiras.

Vitor Hugo, 26, signed a four-year contract at the Stadio Artemio Franchi just over a week after Rodriguez made his last appearance in a 2-2 Serie A draw with Pescara.

Rodriguez is now a free agent after opting against extending his contract in Tuscany.

Vitor Hugo, whose arrival at Fiorentina was announced on the club's official website, won the Campeonato Brasileiro and the Copa do Brasil during his time with Palmeiras.[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Aurélien Chedjou - Istanbul Basaksehir (free transfer)

2 year contract with option to extend by 1 year

Christian Noboa - Zenit St. Petersburg (free transfer)

[article]The Ecuadorian international has signed a contract to join the blue-white-sky blues on a three-year deal.

Christian Noboa was born on 9 April 1985 in the city of Guayaquil, Ecuador. His football career began at Club Sport Emelec in his hometown.

In 2007 he joined Rubin Kazan, becoming the first Ecuadorian player in the Russian championship. While at Rubin Kazan he became a two-time league winner and also won the Russian Cup. From 2012 to 2104 he played for Dynamo Moscow, before in January 2015 heading to Greece to join PAOK.

However six months later he returned to Russia, joining Rostov. Under Kurban Berdyev's leadership, the Christian and the team came second in the league that season and took runners-up medals.

Cristian has signed a contract to join the blue-white-sky blues as a free agent and everyone at the club welcomes him to St. Petersburg and want him to win with Zenit!
[/article]

 

[King Binny]

David Flitcroft - Swindon Town (Manager)

[article]
Swindon Town are delighted to announce David Flitcroft as our new manager.

The club has taken its time over this appointment as it was vital after relegation that we got the right man to take the club forward and give us the best chance of promotion back to League One at the first time of asking. We are convinced David is this man.

David has a fantastic footballing background as a player, a coach and a manager and most importantly knows this level of football and how to get out of it, having guided Bury to promotion from the Sky Bet League Two during the 2014/15 campaign.

David has been given a very competitive budget and will now begin the job of putting a squad together with the aim of competing at the top of League Two.
[/article]

Gelson Fernandes - Eintracht Frankfurt

[article]Gelson Fernandes has joined the Eagles from Stade Rennais. The contract the Swiss international has signed with Eintracht runs until 2019. The 30-year-old has played in France, England, Italy, Portugal, Germany and Switzerland. Fernandes was born in Praia, Cape Verde. Before his time in France, Fernandes used to play for Bundesliga club SC Freiburg (38 games, 1 goal).

Fredi Bobic said on occasion of the transfer: “We believe that Gelson will be able to help us immediately. He has a lot of experience and he is a great character.”

Fernandes gave the following statement: “I am very happy to be back in the Bundesliga, one of the best leagues in the world. Eintracht is an ambitious club with a long tradition. I am looking forward to be part of and support the team.”[/article]

 

[rurikbird]

Vitor Hugo - Fiorentina (reportedly €8 million)

[article]Fiorentina have replaced the departing Gonzalo Rodriguez by signing Brazilian defender Vitor Hugo from Palmeiras.

Vitor Hugo, 26, signed a four-year contract at the Stadio Artemio Franchi just over a week after Rodriguez made his last appearance in a 2-2 Serie A draw with Pescara.

Rodriguez is now a free agent after opting against extending his contract in Tuscany.

Vitor Hugo, whose arrival at Fiorentina was announced on the club's official website, won the Campeonato Brasileiro and the Copa do Brasil during his time with Palmeiras.[/article]

He will be known as the Hunchback of Florence.

 

[King Binny]

Sead Kolasinac - Arsenal (free transfer)

[article]
Sead Kolasinac will join us this summer on a long-term contract.

Subject to the completion of all regulatory processes, the defender will start pre-season training in July.
[/article]

Peter Bosz - Dortmund (Head Coach)

 

[King Binny]

Stefano Pioli - Fiorentina (Head Coach)

[article]
Fiorentina have officially confirmed that Stefano Pioli has been appointed to replace Paulo Sousa as Coach.

The former Viola player returns to Artemio Franchi having been sacked by Inter last month.

"ACF Fiorentina announces that it has reached an agreement with Stefano Pioli, who will be entrusted with the technical guidance of the first team," a statement on the Tuscan club's official website confirmed.

"Stefano Pioli, as a player, wore the Viola shirt on 156 occasions between 1989 and 1995, also wearing the captain's armband.

"The new Gigliati boss has signed a contract which will tie him to his new club for two years with the option of a third.

"Pioli will be presented to the Press tomorrow, June 7, at 12.30 in the Manuela Righini Press room at the Stadio Artemio Franchi.

"Finally, Stefano Pioli will meet Viola fans interested in showing their affection and support for the new Coach at Fiorentina Store on Viale Manfredo Fanti between 18.00 and 18.45.

"The owners, the directors and everyone at Fiorentina wish the Coach the greatest satisfaction, and offer him a huge 'good luck' for his new job.

"Welcome back, Stefano."
[/article]

Dalcio - Rangers (loan)

[article]RANGERS are delighted to announce the signing of Benfica attacker Dalcio on a season-long loan deal.

The forward player, who has played in a variety of positions during his career, passed a medical at the Rangers Training Centre and will immediately join up with his new teammates.

He joined Benfica from Belenenses in 2015 before having a spell back there on loan, where he gained experience in the Europa League, playing against Lech Poznan and Fiorentina.

He has represented Portugal at under-19 and under-20 level and last season he spent the bulk of his time with Benfica’s ‘B’ team, making 33 appearances and scoring three times.

He becomes Rangers’ third summer signing as Pedro Caixinha rebuilds his squad ahead of the new campaign

Speaking exclusively to RangersTV.tv on his arrival, he said: “What attracted me was the history of the club, the size of the club, and mainly, the supporters – the amazing fans the club has.

“The gaffer was a real influence on me too. I know he is really competitive and ambitious, and that was the reasons I wanted to join him.

“The manager has said he is here to help me and to improve me. On the club, we need to put it on top where it belongs.”[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Denis Terentyev - Zenit St. Petersburg (reportedly €2 million)

[article]
The Zenit Academy player has signed a 3-year contract with the possibility of extending it for another two seasons.

Denis Terentyev was born on 13 August 1992 in St. Petersburg.

He his career at Smena, which later became the Zenit Academy and the right-back made his debut for Zenit in 2010 for the U19s, winning the bronze medalist in the youth championship that season.

In May 2012, he made his first team debut for the blue-white-sky blues.He spent 2012 to 2014 on loan at Tom Tomsk and then returned to St. Petersburg and played a half-season for Zenit -2.

In early 2015, Denis returned to Tom and six months later moved to Rostov and there he won a league runners-up medal.

Everyone at Zenit wishes to welcome back Denis to his hometown club and wish lots of success at the blue-white-sky blues.
[/article]

Simon Makienok - FC Utrecht (free transfer)

 

[King Binny]

Angus Gunn - Norwich (loan)

[article]NORWICH City are set to complete the signing of England Under-21s goalkeeper Angus Gunn from Manchester City on a season-long loan deal.

Gunn will return to Norfolk from Saturday, July 1 having previously spent a number of years within the Canaries’ Academy setup before moving to Manchester in the summer of 2011.

Speaking to Norwich City TV, the 21-year-old said: "I grew up as Norwich fan and ever since I was a little boy I came to Carrow Road for every home game.

"It’s a great pleasure for me to come back and sign on loan. The main thing for me is to come and get experience, so to mix that in with coming to Norwich is a great feeling."

Son of legendary City goalkeeper Bryan, the Norwich-born stopper will link up with his new teammates once he has returned from representing England at the Under-21s European Championships in Poland.

Reflecting on what Gunn will add to the squad, Sporting Director Stuart Webber added: "He’s an unbelievably talented goalkeeper.

"It’s a name dear to the supporters’ hearts but we’re judging Angus on being Angus. We’re really excited to have him here."[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Maximilian Philipp - Dortmund (reportedly €15 million with add ons up to €5 million)

[article]Maximilian Philipp is the fourth new signing after Ömer Toprak (Bayer Leverkusen), Mahmoud Dahoud (Bor. Mönchengladbach) and Dan-Axel Zagadou (Paris St. Germain) to transfer to Borussia Dortmund from SC Freiburg for the coming season.

The 23 year old attacking midfielder has signed a five year contract with the German Cup winner and Champions League participant until the 30. June, 2022. Sporting Director Michael Zorc said: „we are happy that we have secured the transfer of Maximilian Philipp, who is highly sought after both here in Germany and abroad. He is versatile and can play as an attacking midfielder, he has a good shot and he has a fantastic future ahead of him.“

Maximilian Philipp who is currently with the U21 national side preparing for the U21 EURO from the 16. to the 30. June in Poland and who will join BVB about three weeks after the last game of the tournament said: „BVB is one of the biggest clubs in the world. It is an honour for me to be able to play here. I think that at the age of 23 years old I am mature and old enough take this step. I want to develop as a player in Dortmund.“ He is already very much looking forward to the ’Yellow Wall‘: „this really frightens the opponents. I am now looking forward to playing for these fans and having their full support behind me.“

The 1.84m player who comes from Berlin has played for Sport-Club Freiburg since January 2013. He made his Bundesliga debut in April 2014. All in all he played 81 Bundesliga and 2. Bundesliga games for Freiburg, scoring 18 goals and setting up 17 goals. He made 24 first team appearances in the Bundesliga last season (9 goals, 3 assists).
[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Curtis Davies - Derby County (£500k)

[article]
Defender Curtis Davies has today become Derby County’s first signing of the close-season.

The centre-back, 32, has joined the Rams from fellow 2017/18 Sky Bet Championship rivals Hull City for an undisclosed fee.

The former England Under-21 international has put pen-to-paper on a two-year contract, with the option of a third.

Davies is Gary Rowett’s first signing since his appointment as manager in March and further strengthens the defensive options available to the 43-year-old ahead of the 2017/18 campaign.

The defender also brings vast experience and know-how with him to Pride Park Stadium.

He has racked up 464 games in club football to date and also wore the captain’s armband at a number of his previous clubs, including in the Premier League and also an FA Cup Final as recently as three years ago.

Davies also boasts experience of gaining promotion to the Premier League from the Championship, having been part of the Hull side that reached the top flight in the 2015/16 campaign via the play-offs.

Leytonstone-born Davies came through the youth ranks at Luton Town and made his professional debut during the 2003/04 season.

He went to join Premier League West Bromwich Albion in August 2005 for a fee of £3 million.

A move across the Midlands and back to the top flight followed in the summer of 2007 as he linked up with Aston Villa on a season-long loan deal, which was eventually turned permanent in July 2008 for a reported fee of around £8 million, before he moved to the Villans’ arch rivals Birmingham City in January 2011 for an undisclosed fee via a brief loan spell at Leicester City.

His next stop was a move back to the Premier League with Hull City in the summer of 2013 for a fee of just over £2 million and, after a fine 2013/14 season which saw him captain the side in their FA Cup Final defeat to Arsenal, a game in which he scored, he was named as the Tigers’ Player of the Season.

Davies played a key role in 2015/16 to lead Hull straight back to the top flight as they achieved promotion following a 1-0 Play-Off Final victory against Sheffield Wednesday at Wembley Stadium.

Davies was capped three times by England at Under-21 level between 2006 and 2007 against Holland, Norway and Spain. He also received a full international call-up under Fabio Capello, but failed to make an appearance.

His current record in club football has seen him make 464 appearances and score 26 goals.

The club would like to thank the Sport First Agency for their help and support in completing the transfer.
[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Callum Paterson - Cardiff City (free transfer)

[article]
Cardiff City is delighted to confirm the signing of Scotland international defender Callum Paterson, subject to international clearance.

Paterson joins the Bluebirds following the expiration of his contract at Heart of Midlothian, signing a deal that will run until the summer of 2020.

During his time at Tynecastle Stadium the twenty-two year old made over one hundred and fifty first-team appearances.

An attacking full-back, Paterson also netted an impressive thirty-eight goals during his five-year stint in the Scottish capital.

Upon his arrival at Cardiff City Stadium, Paterson spoke exclusively to iFollow Cardiff City in an interview which can be watched in full above.

“I’m absolutely delighted and buzzing to be part of this big Club,” he began.

“It’s nice and early so I’ve got a lot of time to bed in, get to know my way around the area and introduce myself. It’s great timing and I’m happy to be here.”

The defender also went on to explain what he hopes to bring to Neil Warnock's side when he pulls on the Bluebirds shirt for the first time.

“Anyone that has watched me has seen that I like to attack,” continued the full-back. “I’m athletic and I like to go forward and try and get on the end of crosses.

“I’m a great attacker and I like to score my goals, so hopefully I can come here and score a few too.”

Paterson becomes the third new face at CCS this summer, following the arrivals last week of Neil Etheridge and Nathaniel Mendez-Laing.
[/article]

Paul Cook - Wigan (Manager)

[article]
We are proud to announce that Paul Cook has been appointed as the manager of Wigan Athletic, signing a three-year contract at the DW Stadium.

Cook was given official permission to talk with Latics after an agreement was reached with Portsmouth Football Club over the weekend.

The 50-year-old Liverpudlian has been at Fratton Park for two seasons, missing out in the play-offs in 2015-16 before winning the League Two title last season and being named League Two Manager of The Year.

Prior to Portsmouth, he also led Chesterfield to the League Two title in 2013-14, before almost making it back-to-back promotions, losing out in the play off semi-finals after a 6th place finish in League One. His first Football League managerial job was at Accrington Stanley in 2012, where he laid the foundations for future success.

He began his coaching career with Southport in 2006, then moved to Sligo Rovers in Ireland in 2007, winning two FAI Cups, a League Cup and leading the side to the UEFA Cup after twice finishing second in the League of Ireland.

As a player, Cook was initially signed by Latics from Marine in 1984 and he made his league debut still aged 17, in March 1985. A cultured midfielder with a sweet left foot, he went on to play 95 times for the club in all competitions, scoring 15 times, being part of the side who reached the FA Cup Quarter Finals in 1987 and lost narrowly in the Division Three (League One) play-offs that season, in the famous team that included Paul Jewell, Bobby Campbell and David Lowe.

He moved to Norwich City in 1988 and went on to play over 640 league games for the Canaries, Wolves, Coventry City, Tranmere Rovers, Stockport County and Burnley, eventually finishing his career with Accrington Stanley in the Conference and helping them reach the Football League in 2006.

Towards the end of a career that saw him play in the top flight for Norwich and Coventry, he also returned briefly to play under Paul Jewell for Latics on loan from Burnley in November 2001, making a further six appearances.

Leam Richardson is joining Latics as Assistant Manager. The 37-year-old first worked with Cook at Accrington Stanley and the pair have been together at both Chesterfield and Portsmouth.

We would like to thank Portsmouth Football Club for their cooperation and understanding throughout the process of Paul leaving Fratton Park and moving here to the DW Stadium.
[/article]

Kenny Jackett - Portsmouth (Manager)

[article]
Portsmouth Football Club are delighted to announce the appointment of Kenny Jackett as first team manager.

The former Watford, Swansea, Millwall, Wolves and Rotherham boss has signed a two-year deal at Fratton Park.

The club are in advanced talks with Joe Gallen – who has worked with Jackett at QPR, Millwall and Wolves – about becoming assistant manager.

Jackett said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for me and I’m looking forward to getting started. It’s an exciting challenge.

“This club has a passionate fan-base and they can be a 12th man for us. Hopefully we can build on the momentum of last season and continue to progress.

“I can promise that I’ll work as hard as I possibly can to make sure that we can bring success to Portsmouth.”

Blues chief executive Mark Catlin added: “We’re delighted to announce Kenny as our new manager – he ticks so many boxes for us.

“He’s managed big clubs with big expectations in the past and has plenty of experience of getting sides out of League One.

“Kenny also has a history of implementing strong structures to move clubs forward and this was key in our decision-making process. We’re excited about him bringing his philosophy of development to Pompey.”

Jackett spent his entire playing career with Watford and later enjoyed promotion success as a manager with Swansea, Millwall and Wolves.
[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Enes Unal - Villarreal (reportedly €14 million with €20 million buyback clause for Man City)


Rúben Semedo - Villarreal (reportedly €15 million +20% sell on clause)

Semedo featured in 24 Liga Nos matches last season, alongside all six of Sporting’s games in the Champions League and previously held enjoyed a loan spell in Spain with Segunda outfit Reus.

Villarreal snapping up some good prospects.

 

[King Binny]

Caner Erkin - Beşiktaş (€750k)

[article]
Besiktas have officially confirmed the signing of Caner Erkin from Inter for €750,000.

The Turkish international joined the Nerazzurri on a free transfer last summer, but when Roberto Mancini was replaced by Frank de Boer he became surplus to requirements.

The defender was therefore loaned to Besiktas before playing a single game for the Beneamata, and today it has been confirmed that he’ll return to Turkey permanently.

“Besiktas have reached an agreement with Inter for Caner Erkin’s transfer,” a statement on the Super Lig club’s website announced.

“Inter will be paid €750,000 for the transfer. The current contract provisions between our club and the player have been maintained.”
[/article]

Rani Khedira - Augsburg (free transfer)

[article]
Augsburg are pleased to be able to announce a new signing for the 2017/2018 season. Midfielder Rani Khedira has joined from RB Leipzig on a four year contract lasting until 30th June 2021.

"FCA managed to stay up after an exciting end to the season. Now I want to help the club to continue to establish itself in the Bundesliga and take the next steps in my career," said the former junior German international on his move to Augsburg.

"In Rani Khedira we have signed a young talent with a huge amount of potential. We're certain that, with his quality, he can help the team over the next few years," said sporting director Stefan Reuter on the first signing of the summer.

Rani Khedira was born in Stuttgart and came through the ranks at VfB Stuttgart before making his debut for the club aged 19. He switched to RB Leipzig in 2014 and made ten Bundesliga appearances for the side which finished second last season.
[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Ederson - Man City (reportedly £34.9 million)

[article]
Manchester City are delighted to announce Ederson will join the Club from Benfica on 1 July.

The Brazilian goalkeeper, who impressed for the Portuguese champions throughout the 2016/17 campaign, has been given the green light to join the Club on a six-year contract.

He will become the Blues’ fourth Brazilian alongside Fernandinho, Fernando and Gabriel Jesus and is one of the brightest young goalkeeper prospects in world football.

Born Ederson Santana de Moraes, he began his career as a youth with São Paulo FC, spending two years before joining second tier Portuguese outfit Ribeirão in 2011.

The promising teenager played 30 games before signing Primeira Liga side Rio Ave after just a season.

He would stay with Rio Ave for three seasons, playing 63 games in all competitions and catching the notice of many of Portugal’s bigger clubs including Benfica who bought the youngster in 2015.

He played several games for Benfica B and was initially understudy to Brazil’s national team first choice keeper Julio Cesar before becoming Benfica’s first choice throughout the 2016/17 campaign as the Eagles secured a league and cup double.

Possessing excellent reflexes and distribution, the left-footed Ederson is also quick to spot any potential danger, rushing out to clear his lines and snuff out any potential danger.

His reputation for point-blank saves quickly made him a popular figure among the Benfica supporters.

He said: “I like everything about Manchester City. This is a great club, the league they have here in England and they have amazing fans and they play splendid football. I have always had the dream to play in English football and now I'm going to make it true.

“With Pep Guardiola, City are growing more and more. He is putting in place a young team for the future. Those were important factors in making my decision.

“Manchester City has an amazing squad. I think they managed to have a good season. Next season, we will have to be focused to achieve the goal of winning trophies.”

City’s Director of Football, Txiki Begiristain, added: “We are delighted to bring Ederson to Manchester City. He is one of the best young goalkeepers in the Europe and he is an important addition to the squad for next season and the coming seasons.”

“He is young, has all the qualities you could want as a top-class goalkeeper and I think he’ll fit in really well to our squad.”
[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Besnik Hasi - Olympiakos (Head Coach)

[article]Olympiacos have chosen Besnik Hasi to take over as the club’s new head coach.

Early Sunday, reports from Kosovo announced that Besnik Hasi will be named the new head coach of Olympiacos. The club confirmed these reports stating that the two sides are currently in negotiations and are close to reaching an agreement.

The 45-year old Kosovo Albanian manager watched Saturday's Champions League final in Cardiff alongside Olympiacos owner Vaggelis Marinakis and new technical director Armando Husillos.

After the difficulties that appeared with Pedro Martins’ situation, Olympiacos were forced to turn to other options with Besnik Hasi, Razvan Lucescu, and current manager Takis Lemonis looking to be the club’s three options for the head coach position. With preseason training set to begin in 10 days, time was not on Olympiacos side.

According to sportfm.gr, Olympiacos have decided to proceed with Besnik Hasi due to his experience in competing in the qualifying rounds of the Champions League and Europa League. Olympiacos’ main goal at the beginning of next season is to return to the Champions League group stages and Marinakis and his staff have turned to Hasi to lead the team to this goal.

Besnik Hasi began coaching in 2014 with Anderlecht after being an assistant coach at the Belgian club for six seasons. Last season, he joined Legia Warsaw and led them to the Champions League group stages via the qualifying process, however was sacked in September due to poor results in the league.[/article]

Nicolas Haas - Atalanta (free transfer)

[article]Atalanta have officially confirmed the signing of Swiss attacking midfielder Nicolas Haas.

The 21-year-old joins on a free transfer from FC Luzern, with his contract to expire at the end of this month.

“Atalanta B.C announces the signing of midfielder Nicolas Haas,” a statement on the Orobici’s official website begins.

“The player was contracted with Swiss club FC Luzern. Haas, born on January 23, 1996 in Sursee can boast important experience at both club and international level, dispute his young age.

“Having shown his qualities in the Luzern youth sector, scoring nine goals in 16 games for the Under-21s, he was elevated to the first team.

“He started in the Swiss Super League with Luzern at the age of 19, and in the two-and-a-half seasons since he has collected 55 appearances in the Swiss top flight, scoring twice and providing seven assists.

“He has already experienced the Europa League and Mapei Stadium in Reggio Emilia - where Atalanta will play their home games in European competition - last season when facing Sassuolo in the third qualifying round, playing both games from the first to last minute.

“His qualities haven’t gone unnoticed at the national level. He has worn the Swiss shirt from the age of 15 and has been involved in the Under-21s who he started with last November, playing two friendlies with Russia.

“He’s a central midfielder who knows how to combine quantity and quality, with a good propensity to get forward.

“Welcome Nicolas!”[/article]

Eduardo Berizzo - Séville (Head Coach)

[article]Sevilla have confirmed Eduardo Berizzo will replace Jorge Sampaoli at the club with the former Celta Vigo Coach signing a two-year deal.

Los Rojiblancos have released a statement to confirm the Argentine will arrive in the city in the coming days to sign the deal and be unveiled to the club’s fans.

The 47-year-old Berizzo led Celta to the semi finals of the Europa League this season, where they were eliminated by eventual champion Manchester United, while he also reached the last four of the Copa Del Rey twice with the Galicians.

Sevilla reached the Champions League knockout stages in Sampaoli’s sole season in charge and were involved in a league title race until March, when a series of poor results derailed them.

After months of speculation, Sampaoli left the Andalucians after the end of the campaign to sign a deal to become Argentina Coach.[/article]

Juan Pablo Carrizo - Monterrey (free transfer)

[article]
Monterrey have officially completed the signing of Inter goalkeeper Juan Pablo Carrizo.

The Argentinian international’s contract was due to expire on June 30, and it was confirmed last month that he’d leave the Nerazzurri at the end of the season.

Today Liga MX side Monterrey have confirmed that Carrizo has signed for them after six seasons in Italy with Lazio, Catania and Inter.

He has made 12 appearances for Argentina, though he hasn’t been capped since 2011.
[/article]

Sergio Leon - Real Betis (reportedly €3.5 million)

[article]
Real Betis have completed the signing of striker Sergio Leon from Osasuna for a reported €3.5m.

Leon has put pen to paper on a four-year contract with Betis, in what is a homecoming for the attacker, who began his career at Benito Villamarin.

The 28-year-old scored 10 goals in 33 appearances for Osasuna last season, his first in La Liga, but was unable to prevent the Pamplonans from making a quick return to the second tier.

He becomes Los Verdiblancos’ first signing of the summer, while new Sporting Gijon sporting director Miguel Torrecilla has confirmed that his former club are interested in young centre-back Jorge Mere.
[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Craig Shakespeare - Leicester (Manager)

[article]Leicester City Football Club has reached agreement with Craig Shakespeare for his long-term appointment to the role of First Team Manager.

Craig, 53, has signed a three-year contract to remain in charge of First Team matters, having successfully assumed the responsibilities in February following the departure of Claudio Ranieri.

Leicester City Vice Chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha said: “Craig has shown all the qualities in leadership, motivation and talent management that are required to be successful in this role. Those qualities, aligned with his first class coaching acumen, his knowledge of Leicester City and its philosophy, and the respect he has earned at every level of the Club make him the ideal choice to help take us forward.

“Our primary objective for the coming years is to successfully translate the extraordinary experiences of the last two seasons into lessons that will strengthen and enhance the Club’s pursuit of its long-term vision of sustainable success. Continuity is among the key elements to making such a process work.

“Over the last nine years, Craig has built a unique insight into the catalysts for success at Leicester City, its impact on our personnel and the conditions needed to ensure its longevity.”

Craig Shakespeare said: “This is a really exciting opportunity for me to continue along this new path in my career and to continue to work with a club and a group of staff I’ve grown extremely close to. I’m grateful to the owners and the Board of Directors for their continued faith and support.

“Our preparations for pre-season and the new Premier League campaign have been on-going for some time, but we can now move on with certainty and ensure we are well equipped to compete at the levels now expected of a club like Leicester City.”

Having served as Assistant Manager for the previous five-and-a-half seasons under both Ranieri and his predecessor Nigel Pearson, Shakespeare took charge of Leicester City for the first time at the end of February – guiding the team to a 3-1 home win over Liverpool that proved the catalyst for a run of form that would rescue the Premier League champions from the threat of relegation.

The Foxes’ first win of 2017 was followed by a further four in succession, making Shakespeare the first British manager in Premier League history to win his first five matches in charge. It was a sequence that would effectively secure City’s top-flight status, though their final points total of 44 would see them finish the season in 12th position.

In addition to their commendable recovery in the league, City’s displays under Shakespeare would see the Foxes extend their adventure in the UEFA Champions League, negotiating a path to the quarter-finals – further than any other British team in the competition.

City’s new manager will begin his first full season in charge on the second weekend in August, with the Foxes’ opening-day Premier League opponents to be confirmed on Fixture Release Day on Wednesday 14 June.[/article]

Mario Vrančić - Norwich (reportedly £750k)

[article]NORWICH City are set to complete the signing of SV Darmstadt 98 midfielder Mario Vrančić from Friday, June 9 on a three-year deal for an undisclosed fee subject to approval by the appropriate governing bodies.

Bosnian international Vrančić will officially join the Canaries once the international transfer window opens later this week, having spent the past two seasons with the Bundesliga outfit.

The 28-year-old scored four times in 23 top-flight appearances last term, also featuring for his national side in World Cup Qualifying.

Speaking exclusively to Norwich City TV after agreeing terms on a switch to Carrow Road, Vrančić said: "It’s a big move for me and I’m very happy to be joining.

"I had a good conversation with the coach and decided very quickly I wanted to be part of Norwich. It’s a good city with a good stadium, so there’s everything you need.

"I’m really happy and very proud to soon be part of Norwich."

City’s Head Coach, Daniel Farke, added: "I’ve followed Mario’s path for several years.

"He’s a really smart technical player with a brilliant left foot. He will bring a lot of quality passing and special creativity to the team.

"In addition to that he’s a really good character and a very nice guy who will fit into Norwich. I’m really looking forward to working with him."[/article]

 

[King Binny]

Ricardo Rodriguez - AC MIlan (reportedly €18 million)

[article]
Milan have officially confirmed the signing of Wolfsburg defender Ricardo Rodriguez until June 2021 in a deal believed to be worth €18m.

The Swiss defender flew in for his medicals on Tuesday night, and spoke yesterday about his pride in joining the Rossoneri.

“More than important players, we need those who will show a certain enthusiasm for this jersey, which is why the first thing we do after the medical is give a tour of the trophy room,” said director Massimiliano Mirabelli in a Facebook video transmission.

Rodriguez signed the paperwork live online and shook hands with directors Marco Fassone and Mirabelli.

Rodriguez becomes the Diavolo’s third signing of the summer, following Mateo Musacchio and Franck Kessié to Milanello.

He was given a tour of the Milan HQ and trophy room, during which he appeared moved and pointed to the Champions League symbol: "That is where Milan belong. That is their home."

The player himself also wrote a letter to the fans of his former club.

“I would like to thank VfL Wolfsburg, all our fans, my team colleagues and all the employees for an unforgettable and very successful time,” Rodriguez said on the official Wolfsburg website.

“Together we have experienced and achieved a lot. I have developed here as a player, as well as a person, always felt very comfortable and won many friends.

“Nevertheless, it is now time for me to take the next step in my career. Milan is an international top club and a big new challenge for me.

“I am very grateful to those responsible at VfL that have allowed me the change.”
[/article]

Sérgio Conceição - Porto (Head Coach)

 

[ILD]

I would have liked to have signed Rodriquez.