Marcelo Bielsa - Lazio (Head Coach)
That will be fascinating to watch.
Confirmed Transfers (2016/17)
- Thread starter King Binny
- Start date
- Latest activity Latest activity:
- Status
That will be fascinating to watch.
Patrick Lodewijks - Everton (First Team Goalkeeping Coach)
[article]Everton Football Club has agreed a deal to appoint Patrick Lodewijks as first-team goalkeeping coach.
The 49-year-old is set to join Ronald Koeman’s backroom team from Feyenoord on completion of the necessary paperwork.
Lodewijks previously worked alongside the new Blues manager during his time at the helm of the Eredivisie side.
He has occupied a similar coaching position at Feyenoord since 2007 and also been in charge of the Dutch club’s under-21s team.
As a goalkeeper, Lodewijks made over 350 appearances during a 20-year career in Dutch football.
He started out professionally at PSV Eindhoven where he first linked up with Koeman before moving to Groningen in 1989 and offering over 11 years of service.
Lodewijks then returned to PSV before ending his career at Feyenoord and making the transition into coaching.
He joins Erwin Koeman and Jan Kluitenberg at Goodison Park after the pair took up the respective assistant manager and fitness coach roles last week.[/article]
[article]Everton Football Club has agreed a deal to appoint Patrick Lodewijks as first-team goalkeeping coach.
The 49-year-old is set to join Ronald Koeman’s backroom team from Feyenoord on completion of the necessary paperwork.
Lodewijks previously worked alongside the new Blues manager during his time at the helm of the Eredivisie side.
He has occupied a similar coaching position at Feyenoord since 2007 and also been in charge of the Dutch club’s under-21s team.
As a goalkeeper, Lodewijks made over 350 appearances during a 20-year career in Dutch football.
He started out professionally at PSV Eindhoven where he first linked up with Koeman before moving to Groningen in 1989 and offering over 11 years of service.
Lodewijks then returned to PSV before ending his career at Feyenoord and making the transition into coaching.
He joins Erwin Koeman and Jan Kluitenberg at Goodison Park after the pair took up the respective assistant manager and fitness coach roles last week.[/article]
Keko - Malaga (reportedly €5 million)
[article]Málaga CF has gained the services of one of the national players sparking the most interest this year, following his great season with Eibar. A footballer raised in the youth ranks of Atlético de Madrid, who exploded into the First Division with some excellent figures in League and Cup clashes: 32 matches, scoring three goals and five goal assists.
Sergio Gontán Gallardo ‘Keko’ grew up in Atlético de Madrid’s youth ranks, making his first team debut at just 17 years of age in 2008/09. Following this, the player continued his development on loan to Real Valladolid, FC Cartagena and Girona FC, before embarking on an adventure in Italy, which saw him signed to Serie A side, Calcio Catania until 2012/13.
On his return to Spain, ‘Keko’ played for Albacete in LaLiga Adelante before joining SD Eibar in the First Division in 2015/16, where he was one of the key players in ensuring the team stayed in the highest category of Spanish football for another season.
Sergio Gontán ‘Keko’ has been an international in all youth categories with Spain, winning the European Championships with the under-17s in 2008, and runners-up with the under-19s in 2010. [/article]
[article]Málaga CF has gained the services of one of the national players sparking the most interest this year, following his great season with Eibar. A footballer raised in the youth ranks of Atlético de Madrid, who exploded into the First Division with some excellent figures in League and Cup clashes: 32 matches, scoring three goals and five goal assists.
Sergio Gontán Gallardo ‘Keko’ grew up in Atlético de Madrid’s youth ranks, making his first team debut at just 17 years of age in 2008/09. Following this, the player continued his development on loan to Real Valladolid, FC Cartagena and Girona FC, before embarking on an adventure in Italy, which saw him signed to Serie A side, Calcio Catania until 2012/13.
On his return to Spain, ‘Keko’ played for Albacete in LaLiga Adelante before joining SD Eibar in the First Division in 2015/16, where he was one of the key players in ensuring the team stayed in the highest category of Spanish football for another season.
Sergio Gontán ‘Keko’ has been an international in all youth categories with Spain, winning the European Championships with the under-17s in 2008, and runners-up with the under-19s in 2010. [/article]
Victor Wanyama - Tottenham (£11 million)
[article]We are delighted to announce that we have completed the transfer of Victor Wanyama from Southampton.
The midfielder has agreed a contract with the Club until 2021.
Born in Nairobi, Victor left Kenya for Europe in 2007 when he joined Helsingborg in Sweden.
Less than a year later, he joined Belgian side Beerschot AC where he made 56 appearances before a move to Glasgow Celtic in July, 2011.
He won the league title in his first season in Scotland before enhancing his reputation further in 2012-13 with 49 appearances as Celtic clinched the SPL and Scottish Cup double. Victor scored nine goals in that campaign including the opener against Barcelona in a famous 2-1 win in the Champions League at Parkhead, as they went on to advance to the knockout stages. His performances earned him the SPL's Young Player of the Year award.
Mauricio Pochettino took the tough-tackling midfielder to Southampton for the start of the 2013-14 campaign.
He played a key role as the Saints racked up finishes of eighth (2013-14), seventh (2014-15) and sixth (2015-16) in his three seasons at St Mary's. During that time he made 94 appearances in all competitions, scoring four goals.
At international level, Victor made his debut for Kenya at just 15 years of age and has since gone on to become captain of the national side.[/article]
[article]We are delighted to announce that we have completed the transfer of Victor Wanyama from Southampton.
The midfielder has agreed a contract with the Club until 2021.
Born in Nairobi, Victor left Kenya for Europe in 2007 when he joined Helsingborg in Sweden.
Less than a year later, he joined Belgian side Beerschot AC where he made 56 appearances before a move to Glasgow Celtic in July, 2011.
He won the league title in his first season in Scotland before enhancing his reputation further in 2012-13 with 49 appearances as Celtic clinched the SPL and Scottish Cup double. Victor scored nine goals in that campaign including the opener against Barcelona in a famous 2-1 win in the Champions League at Parkhead, as they went on to advance to the knockout stages. His performances earned him the SPL's Young Player of the Year award.
Mauricio Pochettino took the tough-tackling midfielder to Southampton for the start of the 2013-14 campaign.
He played a key role as the Saints racked up finishes of eighth (2013-14), seventh (2014-15) and sixth (2015-16) in his three seasons at St Mary's. During that time he made 94 appearances in all competitions, scoring four goals.
At international level, Victor made his debut for Kenya at just 15 years of age and has since gone on to become captain of the national side.[/article]
Hiroki Sakai - Marseille (free transfer)
Henri Bedimo - Marseille (free transfer)
[article]Marseille have signed full-backs Henri Bedimo and Hiroki Sakai, the club announced on Thursday.
A 32-year-old left-back, Bedimo had played for seven other Frenchs clubs, including Lens, Montpellier and Lyon, where he played last season.
Sakai, a 26-year-old right-back, began his career at Kashiwa Reysol before moving to Hannover in 2012. The Japan international has played 27 times for his country thus far.
Monaco lost regular left-back, France under-21 international Banjamin Mendy, to Monaco last week.
Marseille finished a disappointing 13th place in Ligue 1 last season, managing just 48 points. [/article]
Henri Bedimo - Marseille (free transfer)
[article]Marseille have signed full-backs Henri Bedimo and Hiroki Sakai, the club announced on Thursday.
A 32-year-old left-back, Bedimo had played for seven other Frenchs clubs, including Lens, Montpellier and Lyon, where he played last season.
Sakai, a 26-year-old right-back, began his career at Kashiwa Reysol before moving to Hannover in 2012. The Japan international has played 27 times for his country thus far.
Monaco lost regular left-back, France under-21 international Banjamin Mendy, to Monaco last week.
Marseille finished a disappointing 13th place in Ligue 1 last season, managing just 48 points. [/article]
Nathan Redmond - Southampton (reportedly £11 million)
[article]Southampton Football Club is delighted to announce the signing of Nathan Redmond on a five-year contract.
The winger becomes Saints’ first arrival of the summer, joining from Championship side Norwich City on a deal that will keep him at St Mary’s until 2021.
The 22 year-old progressed through Birmingham City’s academy, going on to make 82 appearances and scoring nine goals for the Blues, before joining Norwich City in 2013.
Redmond enjoyed a successful three-year spell with the Canaries, making 122 appearances and scoring 13 goals, including one in Norwich’s Championship play-off final win against Middlesbrough in 2015.
Birmingham-born Redmond has featured at every youth level for England, playing alongside Saints trio James Ward-Prowse, Jack Stephens and Matt Targett for England Under-21s at the Toulon Tournament earlier this summer.
Redmond will join up with his new teammates for pre-season testing on Tuesday, as Saints begin their preparations for the 2016/17 campaign.
“I’m really pleased to have made the move to Southampton,” Redmond said. “It’s a fantastic football club with excellent facilities, and I really feel I can develop my game here.
“The club’s style of play has always been excellent. They like to play attacking football and it’s a style I feel I can really fit in well with.
“When Southampton said they were interested it felt like the right move for me, and I can’t wait to get started now.”
Executive Director of Football Les Reed said: “I’m delighted to be able to welcome Nathan to Southampton Football Club.
“Despite being just 22, Nathan has gained plenty of experience in the Premier League with Norwich City, showing his quality at the top level on a consistent basis.
“He has also performed exceptionally well on the international stage, playing a key role in helping England Under-21s win the Toulon Tournament this summer.
“While Nathan has already gained Premier League experience, he has the potential to continue developing and becoming an integral part of the squad for years to come.”[/article]
[article]Southampton Football Club is delighted to announce the signing of Nathan Redmond on a five-year contract.
The winger becomes Saints’ first arrival of the summer, joining from Championship side Norwich City on a deal that will keep him at St Mary’s until 2021.
The 22 year-old progressed through Birmingham City’s academy, going on to make 82 appearances and scoring nine goals for the Blues, before joining Norwich City in 2013.
Redmond enjoyed a successful three-year spell with the Canaries, making 122 appearances and scoring 13 goals, including one in Norwich’s Championship play-off final win against Middlesbrough in 2015.
Birmingham-born Redmond has featured at every youth level for England, playing alongside Saints trio James Ward-Prowse, Jack Stephens and Matt Targett for England Under-21s at the Toulon Tournament earlier this summer.
Redmond will join up with his new teammates for pre-season testing on Tuesday, as Saints begin their preparations for the 2016/17 campaign.
“I’m really pleased to have made the move to Southampton,” Redmond said. “It’s a fantastic football club with excellent facilities, and I really feel I can develop my game here.
“The club’s style of play has always been excellent. They like to play attacking football and it’s a style I feel I can really fit in well with.
“When Southampton said they were interested it felt like the right move for me, and I can’t wait to get started now.”
Executive Director of Football Les Reed said: “I’m delighted to be able to welcome Nathan to Southampton Football Club.
“Despite being just 22, Nathan has gained plenty of experience in the Premier League with Norwich City, showing his quality at the top level on a consistent basis.
“He has also performed exceptionally well on the international stage, playing a key role in helping England Under-21s win the Toulon Tournament this summer.
“While Nathan has already gained Premier League experience, he has the potential to continue developing and becoming an integral part of the squad for years to come.”[/article]
Youssef Aït Bennasser - Monaco (undisclosed fee)
[article]AS Monaco are delighted to announce the signing of Youssef Aït Bennasser, 19.
After a solid first season at professional level with Nancy (33 appearances in Ligue 2), where he helped the club achieve promotion to Ligue 1, the young midfielder has committed to AS Monaco for the next five years.
Vadim Vasilyev, Vice-President & CEO of AS Monaco: “ Youssef had a standout season at Nancy and is one of the most promising talents in the French league in his position. He has arrived for the long term, and we have high hopes for him in the future.”
Youssef Aït Bennasser: ” The club management convinced me to join AS Monaco’s project. This is a new challenge for me. AS Monaco is a club of dreams, I’m honoured and proud to sign here."[/article]
Benjamin Mendy - Monaco (reportedly €13 million plus add ons up to €2.5 million)
[article]AS Monaco are pleased to announce the signing of Benjamin Mendy on a five-year deal.
The defender, who will turn 22 on 17 July and has played for the French national side at all youth levels, has five years’ experience playing at the highest level.
After coming through the ranks to make his professional debut at Le Havre (57 appearances in Ligue 2), Benjamin Mendy spent three full seasons at Olympique de Marseille (81 appearances in Ligue 1), where he also played in the Champions League and Europa League.
Vadim Vasilyev, Vice-President & CEO of AS Monaco
“Benjamin has the advantage of being a big hope for the future in his position while having solid experience in the league. He is still very young and we hope to allow him to express his full talent and potential. We have a lot of faith in him.”
Benjamin Mendy
“I’m very proud to sign for AS Monaco. It’s a new challenge for me. I hope to progress and move to the next level with this great club in the French league.” [/article]
[article]AS Monaco are delighted to announce the signing of Youssef Aït Bennasser, 19.
After a solid first season at professional level with Nancy (33 appearances in Ligue 2), where he helped the club achieve promotion to Ligue 1, the young midfielder has committed to AS Monaco for the next five years.
Vadim Vasilyev, Vice-President & CEO of AS Monaco: “ Youssef had a standout season at Nancy and is one of the most promising talents in the French league in his position. He has arrived for the long term, and we have high hopes for him in the future.”
Youssef Aït Bennasser: ” The club management convinced me to join AS Monaco’s project. This is a new challenge for me. AS Monaco is a club of dreams, I’m honoured and proud to sign here."[/article]
Benjamin Mendy - Monaco (reportedly €13 million plus add ons up to €2.5 million)
[article]AS Monaco are pleased to announce the signing of Benjamin Mendy on a five-year deal.
The defender, who will turn 22 on 17 July and has played for the French national side at all youth levels, has five years’ experience playing at the highest level.
After coming through the ranks to make his professional debut at Le Havre (57 appearances in Ligue 2), Benjamin Mendy spent three full seasons at Olympique de Marseille (81 appearances in Ligue 1), where he also played in the Champions League and Europa League.
Vadim Vasilyev, Vice-President & CEO of AS Monaco
“Benjamin has the advantage of being a big hope for the future in his position while having solid experience in the league. He is still very young and we hope to allow him to express his full talent and potential. We have a lot of faith in him.”
Benjamin Mendy
“I’m very proud to sign for AS Monaco. It’s a new challenge for me. I hope to progress and move to the next level with this great club in the French league.” [/article]
Lewis Baker - Vitesse Arnhem (loan)
[article]Chelsea have announced that England Under-21 midfielder Lewis Baker is to spend a second season out on loan at Eredivisie side Vitesse Arnhem.
The 21-year-old made 34 appearances for the Dutch outfit last season, scoring five goals -- including the club's goal of the season -- and will return as part of Chelsea's ongoing link with Vitesse.
Baker has yet to feature for the Blues' first team and has previously spent time out on loan at Sheffield Wednesday and MK Dons.
"There was interest from several other clubs last summer but, together with my family and Chelsea, I have discussed the options and we all believed that another year at Vitesse was the best option,'' he told Vitesse's official website.
"After the season I was allowed to participate in the Toulon tournament, which was a successful tournament. I want to hold that form and take it to the next season.
"I want to keep developing myself and improve to hopefully play a good season...and I hope to contribute to the success of the club. ''
Baker joins Brazilian Nathan in committing to a second successive campaign on loan to Vitesse from Stamford Bridge after the extension to the 20-year-old's deal was announced earlier this month.[/article]
[article]Chelsea have announced that England Under-21 midfielder Lewis Baker is to spend a second season out on loan at Eredivisie side Vitesse Arnhem.
The 21-year-old made 34 appearances for the Dutch outfit last season, scoring five goals -- including the club's goal of the season -- and will return as part of Chelsea's ongoing link with Vitesse.
Baker has yet to feature for the Blues' first team and has previously spent time out on loan at Sheffield Wednesday and MK Dons.
"There was interest from several other clubs last summer but, together with my family and Chelsea, I have discussed the options and we all believed that another year at Vitesse was the best option,'' he told Vitesse's official website.
"After the season I was allowed to participate in the Toulon tournament, which was a successful tournament. I want to hold that form and take it to the next season.
"I want to keep developing myself and improve to hopefully play a good season...and I hope to contribute to the success of the club. ''
Baker joins Brazilian Nathan in committing to a second successive campaign on loan to Vitesse from Stamford Bridge after the extension to the 20-year-old's deal was announced earlier this month.[/article]
Hiroshi Kiyotake - Sevilla (reportedly €6.5 million)
[article]Sevilla have signed Hiroshi Kiyotake after the Japanese midfielder passed a medical on Friday morning.
Kiyotake joins from German club Hannover on a four-year contract after terms were agreed on the transfer, according to a statement on the Spanish side's website.
"I feel very happy, I want to be of great value to Sevilla," he said.
The attacking midfielder, who spent four years with Hannover, has played 36 times for Japan, scoring three goals.[/article]
[article]Sevilla have signed Hiroshi Kiyotake after the Japanese midfielder passed a medical on Friday morning.
Kiyotake joins from German club Hannover on a four-year contract after terms were agreed on the transfer, according to a statement on the Spanish side's website.
"I feel very happy, I want to be of great value to Sevilla," he said.
The attacking midfielder, who spent four years with Hannover, has played 36 times for Japan, scoring three goals.[/article]
Bryan Dabo - Saint Etienne (undisclosed fee, reportedly €4 million)
[article]Saint Etienne have snapped up midfielder Bryan Dabo on a four-year contract. The 24-year-old makes the switch after nine years at Montpellier, where he came through the ranks.
No terms of the deal were announced, but Dabo said on the St Etienne website: "Last season I could have left Montpellier for free, but I found that was not the honourable way to leave my first club so I decided to stay another year.
"The president of Montpellier made a commitment to me and he kept his word.''[/article]
[article]Saint Etienne have snapped up midfielder Bryan Dabo on a four-year contract. The 24-year-old makes the switch after nine years at Montpellier, where he came through the ranks.
No terms of the deal were announced, but Dabo said on the St Etienne website: "Last season I could have left Montpellier for free, but I found that was not the honourable way to leave my first club so I decided to stay another year.
"The president of Montpellier made a commitment to me and he kept his word.''[/article]
Gregg Wylde - Millwall (free transfer)
[article]Millwall Football Club is delighted to announce that it has agreed a deal to sign Gregg Wylde on 1st July when his contract with current side Plymouth Argyle expires.
The explosive left winger, 25, has agreed terms on a two-year contract with The Lions and becomes manager Neil Harris' third signing of the summer transfer window.
Wylde began his career with Scottish club Rangers, where he made his debut in August 2009, and also played for Bury, Aberdeen and St Mirren before his move to Home Park this time last year. In 2015/16 Wylde made over 50 appearances for The Pilgrims, including against Millwall in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy, and scored seven goals.
The former Scotland U21 international told millwallfc.co.uk: "I'm delighted to have signed. It's been a frustrating few weeks after the Play-Off Final with Plymouth. I'm so pleased to be here, and with Neil Harris as well. He really sold the club to me and came to watch me play a few times too."
Gregg believes that the experience gained with previous clubs Rangers, Bolton and Plymouth will stand him in good stead as The Lions aim to mount a promotion challenge this coming season.
"At the start of my career I was at Rangers," he added. "I broke into the first team when I was 18 and was there for three years before I joined Bolton, but it didn't work out. I signed for Plymouth and was only there for a year but made 55 appearances, which was a lot, but great for me. I'm back on my feet again and I am delighted to be here at Millwall.
"I'm looking forward to the new season ahead."[/article]
[article]Millwall Football Club is delighted to announce that it has agreed a deal to sign Gregg Wylde on 1st July when his contract with current side Plymouth Argyle expires.
The explosive left winger, 25, has agreed terms on a two-year contract with The Lions and becomes manager Neil Harris' third signing of the summer transfer window.
Wylde began his career with Scottish club Rangers, where he made his debut in August 2009, and also played for Bury, Aberdeen and St Mirren before his move to Home Park this time last year. In 2015/16 Wylde made over 50 appearances for The Pilgrims, including against Millwall in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy, and scored seven goals.
The former Scotland U21 international told millwallfc.co.uk: "I'm delighted to have signed. It's been a frustrating few weeks after the Play-Off Final with Plymouth. I'm so pleased to be here, and with Neil Harris as well. He really sold the club to me and came to watch me play a few times too."
Gregg believes that the experience gained with previous clubs Rangers, Bolton and Plymouth will stand him in good stead as The Lions aim to mount a promotion challenge this coming season.
"At the start of my career I was at Rangers," he added. "I broke into the first team when I was 18 and was there for three years before I joined Bolton, but it didn't work out. I signed for Plymouth and was only there for a year but made 55 appearances, which was a lot, but great for me. I'm back on my feet again and I am delighted to be here at Millwall.
"I'm looking forward to the new season ahead."[/article]
Anthony Stokes - Blackburn Rovers (free transfer)
[article]Rovers are delighted to announce the signing of proven goalscorer Anthony Stokes.
The 27-year-old frontman joins on a three-year deal following his release from Scottish champions Celtic.
A Republic of Ireland international, Stokes started his career at Arsenal, making his debut in a 3-0 victory at Sunderland in October 2005.
Following a hugely successful loan spell with Falkirk, where he scored 16 goals in 18 games, Stokes joined Sunderland for £2m in January 2007 and helped the club secure promotion to the Premier League that season as champions.
The Irishman spent two-and-a-half years with the Black Cats, which included loan spells with Sheffield United and Crystal Palace, before he moved to Scottish Premier League side Hibs in August 2009.
The striker was a revelation north of the border, scoring 24 goals in 48 games, including the fastest goal in SPL history, after just 12 seconds against Rangers.
His goalscoring exploits hadn’t gone unnoticed and Scottish giants Celtic came calling in August 2010.
Stokes continued his prolific form in front of goal, scoring 77 goals in 192 games during his time at Celtic Park, where he won four Scottish Premiership titles, two Scottish Cups and the Scottish League Cup.
Highlights included a hat-trick in an SPL record 9-0 victory over Aberdeen, a brace in Celtic’s 3-1 Europa League victory over Stade Rennes, two assists and the man-of-the-match award in the 2013 Scottish Cup final and his 100th goal in Scottish football in a 5-1 win against Partick Thistle in March 2014, which helped clinch the league title.
After falling out of favour under manager Ronny Deila, Stokes returned to Hibs on loan in January 2016, scoring on his debut in a 3-1 win over St Mirren.
By the end of the campaign, Stokes had scored five goals in 14 league games and wrote himself into Hibs folklore by netting twice in the Scottish Cup final against Rangers, which was their first triumph in the competition in 114 years.
At 27, it is widely believed that the hot-shot’s best years are still ahead of him and Rovers fans can look forward to seeing Stokes in action at Ewood Park until the summer of 2019.[/article]
Stephen Hendrie - Blackburn Rovers (loan)
[article]Rovers have secured the services of West Ham starlet Stephen Hendrie on a season-long loan.
The highly-rated Scotland Under-21 international left-back becomes manager Owen Coyle’s second summer signing following the capture of striker Anthony Stokes on Friday.
Born in Glasgow, Hendrie came through the youth ranks at Hamilton Academical, making his first team debut in July 2011 as a 16-year-old.
Over the next four years, the talented defender went on to play over 100 games for the Accies, helping them secure promotion to the Scottish Premiership in 2013-14, before moving to West Ham for a reported £1m in July 2015.
That month, the 21-year-old was on the bench for West Ham’s Europa League qualifying matches against Birkirkara, before starting the season as first-choice left-back with the Hammers’ Under-21s.
Hendrie featured on the first team bench a further three times in December – for the Premier League games against Swansea, Aston Villa and Southampton – before making a January loan move to League One’s Southend United.
The Scottish star made five appearances for Phil Brown’s side, scoring the winning goal in a 2-1 victory away to Shrewsbury on his third outing for the Shrimpers.
Hendrie returned to Upton Park in February and played a key role in the Hammers’ run to Under-21 Premier League Cup glory, scoring the penultimate penalty in the shoot-out victory over Hull City in the final.
The dynamic defender will be hoping to continue his development and get further first team experience under his belt over the next 12 months here at Ewood Park.[/article]
Danny Graham - Blackburn Rovers (free transfer)
[article]Rovers are delighted to announce that striker Danny Graham has completed a permanent move to the club.
The former Sunderland forward, who became a fans favourite on loan at Ewood Park during the second half of last season, has put pen-to-paper on a two-year deal, with the option of a third year.
The 30-year-old becomes manager Owen Coyle’s third summer signing following the arrivals of fellow frontman Anthony Stokes and West Ham full-back Stephen Hendrie.
Graham started his career at Middlesbrough, making his debut as a 19-year-old against Manchester United in October 2004, before enjoying loan spells with Darlington, Derby County, Leeds United, Blackpool and Carlisle United.
The striker made a permanent move to Brunton Park in 2007 and went on to score 40 goals in 113 appearances for the Cumbrians, before Watford came calling in 2009.
In two impressive seasons at Vicarage Road, Graham scored 41 goals in 98 games for the Hornets, twice finishing as the club’s top goalscorer, before Swansea City secured his services for £3.5m in 2011. During his time in South Wales, the striker scored 21 goals in 62 games.
A big-money move to Sunderland followed in January 2013, but managerial changes hampered his success at the Stadium of Light and he made loan moves to Hull City, Middlesbrough, Wolves and, in January, Rovers.
Graham was a huge hit at Ewood Park, netting seven times in 18 appearances, including a brace against Bristol City, a late winner against former club Middlesbrough and he signed off with another fine strike in the final day victory over Reading.
After being released by Sunderland, Graham had a host of clubs chasing his signature, so Rovers are delighted to welcome him back to Ewood Park.[/article]
Liam Feeney - Blackburn Rover (free transfer)
[article]Rovers are delighted to welcome winger Liam Feeney back to the club.
The 29-year-old, who had a loan spell at Ewood Park during the 2013-14 season, has put pen-to-paper on a two-year deal, with the option of a third year.
Feeney started out in non-league football, first with Hayes and then at Salisbury City, before joining League Two Bournemouth in 2009.
The pacy playmaker tasted promotion in his first season with the south-coast club and would go on to make over 120 appearances for the Cherries during a two-and-a-half-year spell, scoring 14 goals.
In August 2011, he moved up to the Championship with Millwall, where he made 83 appearances, scoring three goals.
During the 2013-14 season, Feeney spent a short spell with Bolton Wanderers, before being recalled, and then ended the campaign on loan at Rovers, where he featured on six occasions.
That summer, Feeney made a permanent move to Bolton, where he would become one of their standout players, scoring eight times in 88 appearances.
He saw out the 2015-16 season on loan at promotion-chasing Ipswich Town and played a key role as the Tractor Boys secured a seventh-place finish in the Championship, scoring one goal in nine appearances.
Feeney becomes manager Owen Coyle’s fourth summer signing, following the arrivals of strikers Anthony Stokes and Danny Graham, and West Ham full-back Stephen Hendrie. [/article]
Dan Burn - Wigan (free transfer)
Jay McEveley - Ross County (free transfer)
Clement Chantome - Rennes
[article]Rennes have signed former Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Clement Chantome from Bordeaux.
The 28-year-old, who had reportedly attracted interest from Premier League club Sunderland, has signed a three-year contract at Roazhon Park.
Chantome told Rennes' official website: "I was convinced by what [head coach] Christian Gourcuff had to say. I'm looking forward to working with him.
"I had a difficult season at Bordeaux -- I had the playing time and the confidence of the staff but I feel my performances did not meet my own expectations."[/article]
Matt Gilks - Rangers ()
László Bénes - Borussia Mönchengladbach (undisclosed fee)
[article]Borussia Mönchengladbach have signed Slovakia youth international László Bénes from MSK Zilina. The 18-year-old midfielder has agreed a five-year contract (until June 2021) with the foals.
„We are very pleased that László Bénes has decided to join Borussia. He is a big talent that we have been looking at for a long time“, says Borussia’s sporting director, Max Eberl. „László is a left-footed player, who can play in central midfield, as well as on the wing. Although he is only 18 years old, he has already played a full season in senior football and competed in eight Europa League qualification matches as a 17-year-old. He is a player with encouraging prospects, who is going to take the next step with us.“
László Bénes was born in South-West Slovakia and began his football career at FC GBS Šamorin, before he moved back to the town of his birth in 2007 to play for DAC Dunajská Streda. After four years there, he went to the Hungarian team Györ ETO FC, where he made his professional debut in December 2014, at just 17 years of age. A short time later, he moved back to his homeland and MSK Zilina. The left-footed player, who is a very good dribbler of the ball, played 31 first-division matches in the Slovakian Fortuna Liga, getting two goals and two assists. In his eight games in Europa League qualification, the 1.73 metre tall midfielder set up three goals.
Bénes has also played several times for his country’s youth team. He has played for every team, from the Slovakia U16s to the U21s, making eleven appearances in total, and scoring three goals. Bénes made his debut in the Slovakia U21s team on 8th October 2015, in a European Championship qualifying match against Cyprus.[/article]
[article]Rovers are delighted to announce the signing of proven goalscorer Anthony Stokes.
The 27-year-old frontman joins on a three-year deal following his release from Scottish champions Celtic.
A Republic of Ireland international, Stokes started his career at Arsenal, making his debut in a 3-0 victory at Sunderland in October 2005.
Following a hugely successful loan spell with Falkirk, where he scored 16 goals in 18 games, Stokes joined Sunderland for £2m in January 2007 and helped the club secure promotion to the Premier League that season as champions.
The Irishman spent two-and-a-half years with the Black Cats, which included loan spells with Sheffield United and Crystal Palace, before he moved to Scottish Premier League side Hibs in August 2009.
The striker was a revelation north of the border, scoring 24 goals in 48 games, including the fastest goal in SPL history, after just 12 seconds against Rangers.
His goalscoring exploits hadn’t gone unnoticed and Scottish giants Celtic came calling in August 2010.
Stokes continued his prolific form in front of goal, scoring 77 goals in 192 games during his time at Celtic Park, where he won four Scottish Premiership titles, two Scottish Cups and the Scottish League Cup.
Highlights included a hat-trick in an SPL record 9-0 victory over Aberdeen, a brace in Celtic’s 3-1 Europa League victory over Stade Rennes, two assists and the man-of-the-match award in the 2013 Scottish Cup final and his 100th goal in Scottish football in a 5-1 win against Partick Thistle in March 2014, which helped clinch the league title.
After falling out of favour under manager Ronny Deila, Stokes returned to Hibs on loan in January 2016, scoring on his debut in a 3-1 win over St Mirren.
By the end of the campaign, Stokes had scored five goals in 14 league games and wrote himself into Hibs folklore by netting twice in the Scottish Cup final against Rangers, which was their first triumph in the competition in 114 years.
At 27, it is widely believed that the hot-shot’s best years are still ahead of him and Rovers fans can look forward to seeing Stokes in action at Ewood Park until the summer of 2019.[/article]
Stephen Hendrie - Blackburn Rovers (loan)
[article]Rovers have secured the services of West Ham starlet Stephen Hendrie on a season-long loan.
The highly-rated Scotland Under-21 international left-back becomes manager Owen Coyle’s second summer signing following the capture of striker Anthony Stokes on Friday.
Born in Glasgow, Hendrie came through the youth ranks at Hamilton Academical, making his first team debut in July 2011 as a 16-year-old.
Over the next four years, the talented defender went on to play over 100 games for the Accies, helping them secure promotion to the Scottish Premiership in 2013-14, before moving to West Ham for a reported £1m in July 2015.
That month, the 21-year-old was on the bench for West Ham’s Europa League qualifying matches against Birkirkara, before starting the season as first-choice left-back with the Hammers’ Under-21s.
Hendrie featured on the first team bench a further three times in December – for the Premier League games against Swansea, Aston Villa and Southampton – before making a January loan move to League One’s Southend United.
The Scottish star made five appearances for Phil Brown’s side, scoring the winning goal in a 2-1 victory away to Shrewsbury on his third outing for the Shrimpers.
Hendrie returned to Upton Park in February and played a key role in the Hammers’ run to Under-21 Premier League Cup glory, scoring the penultimate penalty in the shoot-out victory over Hull City in the final.
The dynamic defender will be hoping to continue his development and get further first team experience under his belt over the next 12 months here at Ewood Park.[/article]
Danny Graham - Blackburn Rovers (free transfer)
[article]Rovers are delighted to announce that striker Danny Graham has completed a permanent move to the club.
The former Sunderland forward, who became a fans favourite on loan at Ewood Park during the second half of last season, has put pen-to-paper on a two-year deal, with the option of a third year.
The 30-year-old becomes manager Owen Coyle’s third summer signing following the arrivals of fellow frontman Anthony Stokes and West Ham full-back Stephen Hendrie.
Graham started his career at Middlesbrough, making his debut as a 19-year-old against Manchester United in October 2004, before enjoying loan spells with Darlington, Derby County, Leeds United, Blackpool and Carlisle United.
The striker made a permanent move to Brunton Park in 2007 and went on to score 40 goals in 113 appearances for the Cumbrians, before Watford came calling in 2009.
In two impressive seasons at Vicarage Road, Graham scored 41 goals in 98 games for the Hornets, twice finishing as the club’s top goalscorer, before Swansea City secured his services for £3.5m in 2011. During his time in South Wales, the striker scored 21 goals in 62 games.
A big-money move to Sunderland followed in January 2013, but managerial changes hampered his success at the Stadium of Light and he made loan moves to Hull City, Middlesbrough, Wolves and, in January, Rovers.
Graham was a huge hit at Ewood Park, netting seven times in 18 appearances, including a brace against Bristol City, a late winner against former club Middlesbrough and he signed off with another fine strike in the final day victory over Reading.
After being released by Sunderland, Graham had a host of clubs chasing his signature, so Rovers are delighted to welcome him back to Ewood Park.[/article]
Liam Feeney - Blackburn Rover (free transfer)
[article]Rovers are delighted to welcome winger Liam Feeney back to the club.
The 29-year-old, who had a loan spell at Ewood Park during the 2013-14 season, has put pen-to-paper on a two-year deal, with the option of a third year.
Feeney started out in non-league football, first with Hayes and then at Salisbury City, before joining League Two Bournemouth in 2009.
The pacy playmaker tasted promotion in his first season with the south-coast club and would go on to make over 120 appearances for the Cherries during a two-and-a-half-year spell, scoring 14 goals.
In August 2011, he moved up to the Championship with Millwall, where he made 83 appearances, scoring three goals.
During the 2013-14 season, Feeney spent a short spell with Bolton Wanderers, before being recalled, and then ended the campaign on loan at Rovers, where he featured on six occasions.
That summer, Feeney made a permanent move to Bolton, where he would become one of their standout players, scoring eight times in 88 appearances.
He saw out the 2015-16 season on loan at promotion-chasing Ipswich Town and played a key role as the Tractor Boys secured a seventh-place finish in the Championship, scoring one goal in nine appearances.
Feeney becomes manager Owen Coyle’s fourth summer signing, following the arrivals of strikers Anthony Stokes and Danny Graham, and West Ham full-back Stephen Hendrie. [/article]
Dan Burn - Wigan (free transfer)
Jay McEveley - Ross County (free transfer)
Clement Chantome - Rennes
[article]Rennes have signed former Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Clement Chantome from Bordeaux.
The 28-year-old, who had reportedly attracted interest from Premier League club Sunderland, has signed a three-year contract at Roazhon Park.
Chantome told Rennes' official website: "I was convinced by what [head coach] Christian Gourcuff had to say. I'm looking forward to working with him.
"I had a difficult season at Bordeaux -- I had the playing time and the confidence of the staff but I feel my performances did not meet my own expectations."[/article]
Matt Gilks - Rangers ()
László Bénes - Borussia Mönchengladbach (undisclosed fee)
[article]Borussia Mönchengladbach have signed Slovakia youth international László Bénes from MSK Zilina. The 18-year-old midfielder has agreed a five-year contract (until June 2021) with the foals.
„We are very pleased that László Bénes has decided to join Borussia. He is a big talent that we have been looking at for a long time“, says Borussia’s sporting director, Max Eberl. „László is a left-footed player, who can play in central midfield, as well as on the wing. Although he is only 18 years old, he has already played a full season in senior football and competed in eight Europa League qualification matches as a 17-year-old. He is a player with encouraging prospects, who is going to take the next step with us.“
László Bénes was born in South-West Slovakia and began his football career at FC GBS Šamorin, before he moved back to the town of his birth in 2007 to play for DAC Dunajská Streda. After four years there, he went to the Hungarian team Györ ETO FC, where he made his professional debut in December 2014, at just 17 years of age. A short time later, he moved back to his homeland and MSK Zilina. The left-footed player, who is a very good dribbler of the ball, played 31 first-division matches in the Slovakian Fortuna Liga, getting two goals and two assists. In his eight games in Europa League qualification, the 1.73 metre tall midfielder set up three goals.
Bénes has also played several times for his country’s youth team. He has played for every team, from the Slovakia U16s to the U21s, making eleven appearances in total, and scoring three goals. Bénes made his debut in the Slovakia U21s team on 8th October 2015, in a European Championship qualifying match against Cyprus.[/article]
Breel Embolo - Schalke (reportedly €25 million)
[article]Schalke have completed the signing of Switzerland international Breel Embolo for an undisclosed fee. The 19-year-old joins the Royal Blues from Swiss giants FC Basel and has agreed a five-year deal at the club until 30th June 2021.
“In Breel Embolo, we have been able to bring in a highly talented attacker, who already has a lot of international experience and was also in demand at several other top European clubs,” said sporting director Christian Heidel.
Embolo featured at EURO 2016 for Switzerland, playing a part in all four of his country’s games. The 6’1’’ striker has won a total of 14 senior caps to date, scoring one goal.
Born in Yaoundé in Cameroon, Embolo began his playing career art Basel-based club Nordstern. After joining BSC Old boys in 2008, a move to the FC Basel youth academy followed two years later. He worked his way through the ranks at the Swiss giants and made his professional debut on 16th March 2014. His very first Swiss Super League goal came in the very same game, scoring minutes after being subbed on in a 5-0 win over FC Aarau.
Embolo made a total of 60 league appearances for Basel, scoring 21 goals. He also notched 14 assists in those matches. The youngster has also featured in eight Champions League games (1 goal), four Champions League qualifiers (1 goal), twelve Europa League games (2 goals) and six Swiss Cup matches (6 games). He won the Swiss league title with Basel in each of the last three seasons.[/article]
Christian Heidel has made a pretty good start on paper since his move from Mainz to Schalke as Sporting Director.
[article]Schalke have completed the signing of Switzerland international Breel Embolo for an undisclosed fee. The 19-year-old joins the Royal Blues from Swiss giants FC Basel and has agreed a five-year deal at the club until 30th June 2021.
“In Breel Embolo, we have been able to bring in a highly talented attacker, who already has a lot of international experience and was also in demand at several other top European clubs,” said sporting director Christian Heidel.
Embolo featured at EURO 2016 for Switzerland, playing a part in all four of his country’s games. The 6’1’’ striker has won a total of 14 senior caps to date, scoring one goal.
Born in Yaoundé in Cameroon, Embolo began his playing career art Basel-based club Nordstern. After joining BSC Old boys in 2008, a move to the FC Basel youth academy followed two years later. He worked his way through the ranks at the Swiss giants and made his professional debut on 16th March 2014. His very first Swiss Super League goal came in the very same game, scoring minutes after being subbed on in a 5-0 win over FC Aarau.
Embolo made a total of 60 league appearances for Basel, scoring 21 goals. He also notched 14 assists in those matches. The youngster has also featured in eight Champions League games (1 goal), four Champions League qualifiers (1 goal), twelve Europa League games (2 goals) and six Swiss Cup matches (6 games). He won the Swiss league title with Basel in each of the last three seasons.[/article]
Christian Heidel has made a pretty good start on paper since his move from Mainz to Schalke as Sporting Director.
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Jeffrey Bruma - Wolfsburg (undisclosed fee, reportedly €15 million)
[article]Jeffrey Bruma is VfL Wolfsburg’s fourth new signing for the 2016/2017 season. The central-defender makes the move from Dutch champions PSV Eindhoven and has signed on with the Wolves until June 2021. The details of the transfer remain undisclosed.
"We are delighted that Jeffrey has opted to sign for VfL Wolfsburg. He comes here with the confidence gained from a championship win. He also knows the Bundesliga from his time at Hamburger SV and can boast quite an amount of international experience. We are sure that he can quickly become a vital pillar within our squad," explained VfL Director of Sport Klaus Allofs. Head-coach Dieter Hecking is also very happy about the boost to his defensive department: "We have signed a central defender with international experience, who we convinced ourselves of during the Champions League games against Eindhoven last season. However, we believe Jeffrey can continue his development further still. We don’t consider him to be at the end of his possibilities."
From July 2011 until June 2013, Bruma was active in Germany as a young player. The 24-year-old is very much looking forward to his return: "Since my time at Hamburger SV, it was always clear to me that I wanted to return to the Bundesliga, as it is one of the top leagues in Europe. I am delighted about having a chance at Wolfsburg in the future. I gathered a great deal of experience during my three years with PSV and I have developed well. Now it’s time to take the next step. Klaus Allofs and Dieter Hecking have made it very clear that VfL is exactly the right place to do so," emphasised Jeffrey Bruma.
Born in Rotterdam, the 1,89 meter tall defender began his footballing career at local clubs Excelsior and Feyenoord, from where he then moved on to the Chelsea’s FC U18 side in 2007 – later making the breakthrough into the professional squad. Following loan spells at Leicester City (latter half of 2011) and Hamburger SV, the right-footer then returned home to Holland, where he made his breakthrough with Eindhoven. Last season, Bruma made 44 appearances for PSV, including eight Champions League games. The defender made his debut in the Dutch national team in August 2010 and has since made 19 appearances – scoring one goal – for Holland.[/article]
[article]Jeffrey Bruma is VfL Wolfsburg’s fourth new signing for the 2016/2017 season. The central-defender makes the move from Dutch champions PSV Eindhoven and has signed on with the Wolves until June 2021. The details of the transfer remain undisclosed.
"We are delighted that Jeffrey has opted to sign for VfL Wolfsburg. He comes here with the confidence gained from a championship win. He also knows the Bundesliga from his time at Hamburger SV and can boast quite an amount of international experience. We are sure that he can quickly become a vital pillar within our squad," explained VfL Director of Sport Klaus Allofs. Head-coach Dieter Hecking is also very happy about the boost to his defensive department: "We have signed a central defender with international experience, who we convinced ourselves of during the Champions League games against Eindhoven last season. However, we believe Jeffrey can continue his development further still. We don’t consider him to be at the end of his possibilities."
From July 2011 until June 2013, Bruma was active in Germany as a young player. The 24-year-old is very much looking forward to his return: "Since my time at Hamburger SV, it was always clear to me that I wanted to return to the Bundesliga, as it is one of the top leagues in Europe. I am delighted about having a chance at Wolfsburg in the future. I gathered a great deal of experience during my three years with PSV and I have developed well. Now it’s time to take the next step. Klaus Allofs and Dieter Hecking have made it very clear that VfL is exactly the right place to do so," emphasised Jeffrey Bruma.
Born in Rotterdam, the 1,89 meter tall defender began his footballing career at local clubs Excelsior and Feyenoord, from where he then moved on to the Chelsea’s FC U18 side in 2007 – later making the breakthrough into the professional squad. Following loan spells at Leicester City (latter half of 2011) and Hamburger SV, the right-footer then returned home to Holland, where he made his breakthrough with Eindhoven. Last season, Bruma made 44 appearances for PSV, including eight Champions League games. The defender made his debut in the Dutch national team in August 2010 and has since made 19 appearances – scoring one goal – for Holland.[/article]
Dani Alves - Juventus (free transfer)
[article]Juventus Football Club can today confirm that Dani Alves has agreed terms on a two-year contract with the club until 30 June 2018 with an option for an additional year.
The unrelenting success and remarkable consistency of the second most decorated player in UEFA competition history has seen the Brazilian deservedly be considered among the greatest wing-backs of his generation.
Having played a key role in one of the most trophy-laden spells of any club over the course of the game’s existence, including a history-making pair of domestic and European trebles at Barcelona, Alves’ transfer to Juventus marks the arrival of a natural-born winner and a true master of his trade.
Explosively athletic, sharp in the tackle and possessing the sort of vision and weight of pass that normally characterise attacking midfielders, the 33-year old fits the mould of the modern full-back and continues the Selecao’s tradition of producing exciting and dynamic wide players.
Starting out at local side Bahia in his native Brazil, a string of impressive performances and a subsequent switch to Spain and Sevilla ensured that the then 19-year old would not have to wait long to showcase his talents on the world stage. It was throughout that richly successful five-year stay in Andalusia that Alves’ potential and remarkable hunger for silverware took off.
Peaking between 2006 and 2008 with back-to-back UEFA Cup winners’ medals - the first of nine European trophies - a Copa Del Rey crown and a permanent place in the Brazilian national side, it was only a matter of time before Barcelona swooped to make him the third most expensive defender in history in July 2008.
Becoming an integral part of an all-conquering Barca side, a staggering 23 major trophies - including three Champions League triumphs - would follow for a player who ended his Blaugrana career with the second highest number of league appearances for a foreigner (239) and a sixth La Liga title in eight seasons in Catalonia.
The Brazilian showed no signs of dropping his peerless standards in the most recent campaign and makes a first step into Italian football on the back of yet another productive past nine months on the field. Alves made a total of 29 league appearances for the Spanish champions and as the chart below demonstrates, boasted superior figures to his defensive colleagues in the division over the course of the 2015/16 season.
Unsurprisingly, the South American excelled particularly in his offensive duties, completing almost double the average number of forward passes compared to any other full-back in La Liga (50.31 per game vs. 28.34) while supplying just under three times as many crosses (3.45 vs. 1.25).
Add to that his high rate of recoveries (5.07 vs. 3.62) and it is clear that the Bianconeri are acquiring a defender of immense aggression, drive and extraordinary technical quality, who promises to provide an added angle of attack for Massimiliano Allegri’s outfit down the right side.
Three UCL crowns, two UEFA Cups, five Copa del Rey trophies, five Spanish Super Cups, four UEFA Super Cups, three FIFA Club World Cups, six La Liga titles: such has been the course of Alves’ career so far, who would bet against adding to that astonishing tally in the coming two years?[/article]
[article]Juventus Football Club can today confirm that Dani Alves has agreed terms on a two-year contract with the club until 30 June 2018 with an option for an additional year.
The unrelenting success and remarkable consistency of the second most decorated player in UEFA competition history has seen the Brazilian deservedly be considered among the greatest wing-backs of his generation.
Having played a key role in one of the most trophy-laden spells of any club over the course of the game’s existence, including a history-making pair of domestic and European trebles at Barcelona, Alves’ transfer to Juventus marks the arrival of a natural-born winner and a true master of his trade.
Explosively athletic, sharp in the tackle and possessing the sort of vision and weight of pass that normally characterise attacking midfielders, the 33-year old fits the mould of the modern full-back and continues the Selecao’s tradition of producing exciting and dynamic wide players.
Starting out at local side Bahia in his native Brazil, a string of impressive performances and a subsequent switch to Spain and Sevilla ensured that the then 19-year old would not have to wait long to showcase his talents on the world stage. It was throughout that richly successful five-year stay in Andalusia that Alves’ potential and remarkable hunger for silverware took off.
Peaking between 2006 and 2008 with back-to-back UEFA Cup winners’ medals - the first of nine European trophies - a Copa Del Rey crown and a permanent place in the Brazilian national side, it was only a matter of time before Barcelona swooped to make him the third most expensive defender in history in July 2008.
Becoming an integral part of an all-conquering Barca side, a staggering 23 major trophies - including three Champions League triumphs - would follow for a player who ended his Blaugrana career with the second highest number of league appearances for a foreigner (239) and a sixth La Liga title in eight seasons in Catalonia.
The Brazilian showed no signs of dropping his peerless standards in the most recent campaign and makes a first step into Italian football on the back of yet another productive past nine months on the field. Alves made a total of 29 league appearances for the Spanish champions and as the chart below demonstrates, boasted superior figures to his defensive colleagues in the division over the course of the 2015/16 season.
Unsurprisingly, the South American excelled particularly in his offensive duties, completing almost double the average number of forward passes compared to any other full-back in La Liga (50.31 per game vs. 28.34) while supplying just under three times as many crosses (3.45 vs. 1.25).
Add to that his high rate of recoveries (5.07 vs. 3.62) and it is clear that the Bianconeri are acquiring a defender of immense aggression, drive and extraordinary technical quality, who promises to provide an added angle of attack for Massimiliano Allegri’s outfit down the right side.
Three UCL crowns, two UEFA Cups, five Copa del Rey trophies, five Spanish Super Cups, four UEFA Super Cups, three FIFA Club World Cups, six La Liga titles: such has been the course of Alves’ career so far, who would bet against adding to that astonishing tally in the coming two years?[/article]
Philippe Montanier - Nottingham Forest (Head Coach)
[article]Nottingham Forest have confirmed the appointment of Philippe Montanier as the club’s head coach.
The former Rennes and Real Sociedad manager arrives at The City Ground on a two-year deal following a playing career which saw him make over 300 appearances for clubs including Toulouse, Nantes and Saint-Etienne.
After ending his career as a goalkeeper, the Frenchman took charge of Boulogne in 2004 and, during his final season, secured promotion to Ligue 1 for the first time in the club’s history.
A brief spell in charge of Valenciennes followed before Montanier was appointed as head coach at Spanish side Real Sociedad in 2011. He exceeded all expectations in the 2012-13 season as he guided the club to a fourth-place finish in La Liga and subsequent qualification for the Champions League.
At the expiration of his contract with Sociedad, Montanier took over the reigns at French club Rennes. During his three-year spell with the Ligue 1 side, Montanier steered them to the Coupe de France final in 2014.[/article]
[article]Nottingham Forest have confirmed the appointment of Philippe Montanier as the club’s head coach.
The former Rennes and Real Sociedad manager arrives at The City Ground on a two-year deal following a playing career which saw him make over 300 appearances for clubs including Toulouse, Nantes and Saint-Etienne.
After ending his career as a goalkeeper, the Frenchman took charge of Boulogne in 2004 and, during his final season, secured promotion to Ligue 1 for the first time in the club’s history.
A brief spell in charge of Valenciennes followed before Montanier was appointed as head coach at Spanish side Real Sociedad in 2011. He exceeded all expectations in the 2012-13 season as he guided the club to a fourth-place finish in La Liga and subsequent qualification for the Champions League.
At the expiration of his contract with Sociedad, Montanier took over the reigns at French club Rennes. During his three-year spell with the Ligue 1 side, Montanier steered them to the Coupe de France final in 2014.[/article]
Nicky Ajose - Charlton (reportedly £800k)
[article]Charlton Athletic are delighted to confirm the signing of Nicky Ajose from Swindon Town for an undisclosed fee.
The 24-year-old has penned a three-year deal with the club and is Russell Slade’s third signing since taking over as Manager earlier this month. Ajose scored 24 goals in League One last year for Swindon Town.
Charlton Manager Russell Slade said: “Nicky is a fantastic addition for the club. He’s a proven goalscorer and was very good for Swindon in this league last season.
“He is very strong in the box, if a defender misses the ball, Nicky is normally the next man there to stick it away. He’s got a great work ethic as well. He’ll bring a lot in terms of the team, he’s a real team player and he’ll work exceptionally hard.
“I was impressed by his enthusiasm. I couldn’t get rid of him when I met him, we sat there talking for an hour and ten minutes. He was talking about the club, he wanted to know everything and that is fantastic. His thirst for knowledge of Charlton and his thirst for getting started and getting cracking was really pleasing.”
Nicky Ajose said: “I’m really glad to be here and cannot wait to get started. From a personal point of view, it was really nice to get a good tally of goals last year and I feel like if I can do something similar next year then it could end in promotion. My aspirations for next season were to be playing the Championship but when a team like Charlton come calling then I felt it was an opportunity that I could not turn down. I’m delighted to have it all signed so early and am really looking forward to getting started.”
Beginning his career with Manchester United, Ajose joined home-town club Bury on loan in 2010, where he netted an impressive 13 goals in 28 appearances.
A year later he signed permanently for Peterborough United. He scored seven times in 24 league games for the Posh, and also embarked on loan stints at Scunthorpe United, Chesterfield, Crawley Town, Bury and Swindon before moving to Leeds in 2014.
A six-month loan spell at Crewe Alexandra saw him get back on the goal trail and in September 2015 he made the permanent switch back to Swindon.
From there, he regularly hit the back of the net and finished last season with 25 goals to his name, 24 of which came in League One.
Ajose becomes our third senior signing of the summer and supporters will be able to hear from him for the first time on www.cafc.co.uk tomorrow.[/article]
[article]Charlton Athletic are delighted to confirm the signing of Nicky Ajose from Swindon Town for an undisclosed fee.
The 24-year-old has penned a three-year deal with the club and is Russell Slade’s third signing since taking over as Manager earlier this month. Ajose scored 24 goals in League One last year for Swindon Town.
Charlton Manager Russell Slade said: “Nicky is a fantastic addition for the club. He’s a proven goalscorer and was very good for Swindon in this league last season.
“He is very strong in the box, if a defender misses the ball, Nicky is normally the next man there to stick it away. He’s got a great work ethic as well. He’ll bring a lot in terms of the team, he’s a real team player and he’ll work exceptionally hard.
“I was impressed by his enthusiasm. I couldn’t get rid of him when I met him, we sat there talking for an hour and ten minutes. He was talking about the club, he wanted to know everything and that is fantastic. His thirst for knowledge of Charlton and his thirst for getting started and getting cracking was really pleasing.”
Nicky Ajose said: “I’m really glad to be here and cannot wait to get started. From a personal point of view, it was really nice to get a good tally of goals last year and I feel like if I can do something similar next year then it could end in promotion. My aspirations for next season were to be playing the Championship but when a team like Charlton come calling then I felt it was an opportunity that I could not turn down. I’m delighted to have it all signed so early and am really looking forward to getting started.”
Beginning his career with Manchester United, Ajose joined home-town club Bury on loan in 2010, where he netted an impressive 13 goals in 28 appearances.
A year later he signed permanently for Peterborough United. He scored seven times in 24 league games for the Posh, and also embarked on loan stints at Scunthorpe United, Chesterfield, Crawley Town, Bury and Swindon before moving to Leeds in 2014.
A six-month loan spell at Crewe Alexandra saw him get back on the goal trail and in September 2015 he made the permanent switch back to Swindon.
From there, he regularly hit the back of the net and finished last season with 25 goals to his name, 24 of which came in League One.
Ajose becomes our third senior signing of the summer and supporters will be able to hear from him for the first time on www.cafc.co.uk tomorrow.[/article]
Chris Kirkland - Bury (free transfer)
[article]Experience comes to Gigg Lane in the shape of former England keeper Chris Kirkland, who has signed a 12-month contract with the Shakers.
35-year old Chris Kirkland started his career at Coventry City in 1998, where he was to go on and make 24 appearances before joining Premier League Liverpool in 2001. In 2006 he moved, this time to Wigan Athletic – having previously enjoyed a nine game loan period from Liverpool.
It was at the DW Stadium where Chris played the most games during his long career with a total of 122 games. Whilst at Wigan he also enjoyed loan spells at Leicester City & Doncaster Rovers before moving to Sheffield Wednesday in 2012.
Released by the Owls at the end of the 2014/15 season, Chris signed for Preston North End, despite having a trail period with Bury ahead of last season. His time at Deepdale though brought just five appearances for the Lilywhites before being released by Simon Grayson at the end of last season.
Chris also enjoyed appearances for the England national side at Under 21 level and with the full England team in 2006.
In total, Chris has made 330 appearances for club and country and arrives at Gigg Lane having signed a 12-month deal.[/article]
[article]Experience comes to Gigg Lane in the shape of former England keeper Chris Kirkland, who has signed a 12-month contract with the Shakers.
35-year old Chris Kirkland started his career at Coventry City in 1998, where he was to go on and make 24 appearances before joining Premier League Liverpool in 2001. In 2006 he moved, this time to Wigan Athletic – having previously enjoyed a nine game loan period from Liverpool.
It was at the DW Stadium where Chris played the most games during his long career with a total of 122 games. Whilst at Wigan he also enjoyed loan spells at Leicester City & Doncaster Rovers before moving to Sheffield Wednesday in 2012.
Released by the Owls at the end of the 2014/15 season, Chris signed for Preston North End, despite having a trail period with Bury ahead of last season. His time at Deepdale though brought just five appearances for the Lilywhites before being released by Simon Grayson at the end of last season.
Chris also enjoyed appearances for the England national side at Under 21 level and with the full England team in 2006.
In total, Chris has made 330 appearances for club and country and arrives at Gigg Lane having signed a 12-month deal.[/article]
Marcus Antonsson - Leeds Utd (undisclosed fee, reportedly £2 million)
[article]We are delighted to announce that a deal has been agreed to make Swedish striker Marcus Antonsson our first signing of the summer, joining from Kalmar FF for an undisclosed fee.
The 25-year-old, who is the Allsvenskan’s top scorer this season after hitting 10 goals from his opening 12 matches, has put pen to paper on a three-year deal at Elland Road.
Antonsson has previously worked under United’s new assistant coach Pep Clotet at Swedish side Halmstads BK, and the highly sought after forward becomes Garry Monk’s first addition to the squad.
“It feels fantastic to be here,” Antonsson told leedsunited.com shortly after signing his contract.
“Ever since Leeds came into the picture, it seemed like the perfect choice. I wanted this move as soon as Leeds contacted me.
“Playing in England has been a big dream of mine. Coming to a big club like Leeds is a dream come true and I will work very hard for the team in every game. I will not miss this opportunity."
Antonsson spent five years with homeland outfit Halmstads, netting 11 times in 71 league matches, before making the switch to Kalmar last year and enjoying a prolific run of 22 goals from 40 games.
Asked what the United supporters can expect to see from the club’s newest recruit, the striker replied: “First of all, I like to score goals. I’m fast inside the box and my big strength is my timing in the box.
“I always try to work very hard for the team - I run a lot of metres – but scoring goals is my main thing.”
Head coach Garry Monk added: “It’s great to make that first signing. In terms of how he plays, Marcus is a different striker to what we’ve got already, so that gives us options up front.
“He’s done exceptionally well over the last couple of seasons. He scores goals, has great movement and he has the mentality to be able to adapt to this league.
“The club has watched a lot of him, I’ve watched a lot of him and I felt he’d be a good fit for Leeds United.
“Marcus will come into the group with some really good strikers in the squad already. It will help them and it will give us options to adapt in different games.”
The deal to bring Marcus Antonsson to Leeds United is subject to international clearance.[/article]
[article]We are delighted to announce that a deal has been agreed to make Swedish striker Marcus Antonsson our first signing of the summer, joining from Kalmar FF for an undisclosed fee.
The 25-year-old, who is the Allsvenskan’s top scorer this season after hitting 10 goals from his opening 12 matches, has put pen to paper on a three-year deal at Elland Road.
Antonsson has previously worked under United’s new assistant coach Pep Clotet at Swedish side Halmstads BK, and the highly sought after forward becomes Garry Monk’s first addition to the squad.
“It feels fantastic to be here,” Antonsson told leedsunited.com shortly after signing his contract.
“Ever since Leeds came into the picture, it seemed like the perfect choice. I wanted this move as soon as Leeds contacted me.
“Playing in England has been a big dream of mine. Coming to a big club like Leeds is a dream come true and I will work very hard for the team in every game. I will not miss this opportunity."
Antonsson spent five years with homeland outfit Halmstads, netting 11 times in 71 league matches, before making the switch to Kalmar last year and enjoying a prolific run of 22 goals from 40 games.
Asked what the United supporters can expect to see from the club’s newest recruit, the striker replied: “First of all, I like to score goals. I’m fast inside the box and my big strength is my timing in the box.
“I always try to work very hard for the team - I run a lot of metres – but scoring goals is my main thing.”
Head coach Garry Monk added: “It’s great to make that first signing. In terms of how he plays, Marcus is a different striker to what we’ve got already, so that gives us options up front.
“He’s done exceptionally well over the last couple of seasons. He scores goals, has great movement and he has the mentality to be able to adapt to this league.
“The club has watched a lot of him, I’ve watched a lot of him and I felt he’d be a good fit for Leeds United.
“Marcus will come into the group with some really good strikers in the squad already. It will help them and it will give us options to adapt in different games.”
The deal to bring Marcus Antonsson to Leeds United is subject to international clearance.[/article]
Mauricio Pellegrino - Alaves (Head Coach)
[article]Former Liverpool defender and first-team coach Mauricio Pellegrino has been named head coach of La Liga new-boys Alaves.
The Argentinian replaces Jose Bordalas, who led the club to the Segunda Division title last season and had seen his contract automatically extended by 12 months following promotion.
Pellegrino leaves his role as head coach of Club Atletico Independiente in his home country after only a year in charge.
The 44-year-old made 13 appearances for Alaves between 2005 and 2006 before announcing his retirement as a player.
Pellegrino has signed a one-year deal with the Spanish club and will be officially unveiled at a press conference on Monday.[/article]
[article]Former Liverpool defender and first-team coach Mauricio Pellegrino has been named head coach of La Liga new-boys Alaves.
The Argentinian replaces Jose Bordalas, who led the club to the Segunda Division title last season and had seen his contract automatically extended by 12 months following promotion.
Pellegrino leaves his role as head coach of Club Atletico Independiente in his home country after only a year in charge.
The 44-year-old made 13 appearances for Alaves between 2005 and 2006 before announcing his retirement as a player.
Pellegrino has signed a one-year deal with the Spanish club and will be officially unveiled at a press conference on Monday.[/article]
Jorge Sampaoli - Sevilla (Manager)
[article]Sevilla have appointed Jorge Sampaoli as their new manager after the Spanish side confirmed that the former Chile coach agreed a two-year deal with the Europa League champions to succeed Unai Emery.
“Sevilla are counting on the best coach of America in 2015, who begins his first adventure in Europe,” Sevilla said of the man who led his country to their first Copa América triumph last year.
The 56-year-old, out of a job since stepping down as Chile coach in January, lost out to the Barcelona coach Luis Enrique for the 2015 Fifa World Coach of the Year award after making the three-man shortlist following his Copa América success.
Sampaoli has promised the fans he will play attacking football, saying: “[It is] such an important club, which has won so many things, is a big responsibility, but also very exciting.
“Undoubtedly I am a person who is tremendously passionate about attacking. They will see me as a coach who will never attempt to cede the spotlight. And for that we need a lot of spirit spread to the group of players so we try to make this team respected throughout Europe, as it is now.
“I hope I can fulfil the expectations that the fans have of the team and me.”
Emery, who steered the team to the last three Europa League crowns, was under contract with Sevilla until June 2017 but negotiated a release from his contract.
“With 106 victories, he is the coach with the most wins at Sevilla in domestic and international competition and the second coach behind Joaquín Caparrós with the most games managed, 205,” Sevilla said. “We wish Emery the best of luck in his next adventure.”
The Spanish tactician has been linked with the vacant coaching job at Paris Saint-Germain after the big-spending Ligue 1 champions parted ways with Laurent Blanc on Monday.
Sevilla finished seventh in La Liga last season but have qualified for next season’s Champions League via their Europa League victory over Liverpool.[/article]
[article]Sevilla have appointed Jorge Sampaoli as their new manager after the Spanish side confirmed that the former Chile coach agreed a two-year deal with the Europa League champions to succeed Unai Emery.
“Sevilla are counting on the best coach of America in 2015, who begins his first adventure in Europe,” Sevilla said of the man who led his country to their first Copa América triumph last year.
The 56-year-old, out of a job since stepping down as Chile coach in January, lost out to the Barcelona coach Luis Enrique for the 2015 Fifa World Coach of the Year award after making the three-man shortlist following his Copa América success.
Sampaoli has promised the fans he will play attacking football, saying: “[It is] such an important club, which has won so many things, is a big responsibility, but also very exciting.
“Undoubtedly I am a person who is tremendously passionate about attacking. They will see me as a coach who will never attempt to cede the spotlight. And for that we need a lot of spirit spread to the group of players so we try to make this team respected throughout Europe, as it is now.
“I hope I can fulfil the expectations that the fans have of the team and me.”
Emery, who steered the team to the last three Europa League crowns, was under contract with Sevilla until June 2017 but negotiated a release from his contract.
“With 106 victories, he is the coach with the most wins at Sevilla in domestic and international competition and the second coach behind Joaquín Caparrós with the most games managed, 205,” Sevilla said. “We wish Emery the best of luck in his next adventure.”
The Spanish tactician has been linked with the vacant coaching job at Paris Saint-Germain after the big-spending Ligue 1 champions parted ways with Laurent Blanc on Monday.
Sevilla finished seventh in La Liga last season but have qualified for next season’s Champions League via their Europa League victory over Liverpool.[/article]
Pellebastard.Mauricio Pellegrino - Alaves (Head Coach)
[article]Former Liverpool defender and first-team coach Mauricio Pellegrino has been named head coach of La Liga new-boys Alaves.
The Argentinian replaces Jose Bordalas, who led the club to the Segunda Division title last season and had seen his contract automatically extended by 12 months following promotion.
Pellegrino leaves his role as head coach of Club Atletico Independiente in his home country after only a year in charge.
The 44-year-old made 13 appearances for Alaves between 2005 and 2006 before announcing his retirement as a player.
Pellegrino has signed a one-year deal with the Spanish club and will be officially unveiled at a press conference on Monday.[/article]
Hahahahahaha
Good times.
Good times.
I hope that wasn't one of mine. I don't have the greatest track record for player nicknames, but in my defence, most of the players I thought/ think were fucking shit didn't have helpful names to start with.
Unai Emery - Paris St. Germain (Head Coach)
[article]Paris Saint-Germain is happy to announce the arrival of Unai Emery as the new coach of the club’s first team. The Spanish technician has signed a 2-year contract with the club. His contract includes an option for an additional season.
After leading FC Sevilla to a third consecutive Europa League triumph in 2015-2016, Unai Emery, 44, has chosen to join Paris Saint-Germain for the next step in his career.
The former Real Sociedad midfielder, who became a coach in 2004, was in charge of Valencia CF from 2008 to 2012 before taking over at FC Sevilla in 2013, transforming the Andalusian club into one of the most competitive on the continent. Thanks to his rigorous management methods and his ambitious playing style, Unai Emery is recognised in Spain and internationally as one of the most innovative modern coaches. He coached Valencia for 220 competitive matches and Sevilla for 205.
Unai Emery will begin his duties today. He will also play an active role in the club’s player recruitment that will launch a new ambitious cycle for Paris Saint-Germain, five years after the arrival of Qatar Sports Investments.
“It is with great pride that I agreed to become the Paris-Saint Germain coach, said Unai Emery. The club has become one of the biggest in Europe over the past few seasons and I am both happy and honoured to be able to help realise its great ambitions. I am eager to meet up with my new players as well as the people who work tirelessly every day to help the club grow. I know that an immense fervour exists around the Paris Saint-Germain and I will be giving my best to ensure its millions of fans have a great deal to cheer about.”
“I am very happy to welcome Unai Emery as the new coach of Paris Saint-Germain, announced Nasser Al-Khelaïfi, Paris Saint-Germain chairman and CEO. Unai will bring to the Club all his experience, his passion and his strong management skills and human qualities. He has a proven talent to get the most out of a team. I am convinced that our fans will love the spectacular style of football our team will play with Unai.”[/article]
[article]Paris Saint-Germain is happy to announce the arrival of Unai Emery as the new coach of the club’s first team. The Spanish technician has signed a 2-year contract with the club. His contract includes an option for an additional season.
After leading FC Sevilla to a third consecutive Europa League triumph in 2015-2016, Unai Emery, 44, has chosen to join Paris Saint-Germain for the next step in his career.
The former Real Sociedad midfielder, who became a coach in 2004, was in charge of Valencia CF from 2008 to 2012 before taking over at FC Sevilla in 2013, transforming the Andalusian club into one of the most competitive on the continent. Thanks to his rigorous management methods and his ambitious playing style, Unai Emery is recognised in Spain and internationally as one of the most innovative modern coaches. He coached Valencia for 220 competitive matches and Sevilla for 205.
Unai Emery will begin his duties today. He will also play an active role in the club’s player recruitment that will launch a new ambitious cycle for Paris Saint-Germain, five years after the arrival of Qatar Sports Investments.
“It is with great pride that I agreed to become the Paris-Saint Germain coach, said Unai Emery. The club has become one of the biggest in Europe over the past few seasons and I am both happy and honoured to be able to help realise its great ambitions. I am eager to meet up with my new players as well as the people who work tirelessly every day to help the club grow. I know that an immense fervour exists around the Paris Saint-Germain and I will be giving my best to ensure its millions of fans have a great deal to cheer about.”
“I am very happy to welcome Unai Emery as the new coach of Paris Saint-Germain, announced Nasser Al-Khelaïfi, Paris Saint-Germain chairman and CEO. Unai will bring to the Club all his experience, his passion and his strong management skills and human qualities. He has a proven talent to get the most out of a team. I am convinced that our fans will love the spectacular style of football our team will play with Unai.”[/article]
Seydou Doumbia - FC Basel (loan with option to buy)
[article]Roma have announced that Seydou Doumbia will join Basel on loan for the 2016-17 season.
The Ivorian forward joined the Giallorossi in January of 2015, but failed to make an impact in Serie A.
Loan spells at CSKA Moscow and Newcastle United followed, but the Magpies opted not to make the deal permanent.
Given he has a contract until 2019, the Lupi have been keen to send the striker elsewhere, and it has now been confirmed that he will move to Switzerland.
“AS Roma announces that it has reached an agreement with FC Basel 1893 for a temporary transfer of the player Seydou Doumbia for the the 2016-17 season,” a statement on the club’s official website confirmed.
Doumbia made 14 Serie A appearances for Roma, scoring twice, and managed just 29 minutes of Premier League football in his loan spell at Newcastle.[/article]
[article]Roma have announced that Seydou Doumbia will join Basel on loan for the 2016-17 season.
The Ivorian forward joined the Giallorossi in January of 2015, but failed to make an impact in Serie A.
Loan spells at CSKA Moscow and Newcastle United followed, but the Magpies opted not to make the deal permanent.
Given he has a contract until 2019, the Lupi have been keen to send the striker elsewhere, and it has now been confirmed that he will move to Switzerland.
“AS Roma announces that it has reached an agreement with FC Basel 1893 for a temporary transfer of the player Seydou Doumbia for the the 2016-17 season,” a statement on the club’s official website confirmed.
Doumbia made 14 Serie A appearances for Roma, scoring twice, and managed just 29 minutes of Premier League football in his loan spell at Newcastle.[/article]
Moussa Dembélé - Celtic (£500k compensation)
[article]CELTIC are delighted to announce the signing of Moussa Dembele from Fulham on a four-year contract, beginning on July 1.
The talented striker becomes Brendan Rodgers’ first signing of the summer and the highly-rated 19-year-old Frenchman will join up with his new team-mates for pre-season training in Slovenia.
Dembele joins the Hoops from English Championship side Fulham where he moved to at the age of 16 after starting his career in France with Paris Saint-Germain.
The teenager enjoyed a successful debut campaign, winning the Premier Academy League with the club’s Under-18 team, before starring for the Cottagers in the Premier League and the Championship, where he scored 17 goals in all competitions last season.
The forward’s stunning season unsurprisingly made him a much sought-after player in the summer transfer window, and Celtic have won the race for his signature.
Moussa Dembele will speak to Celtic TV later today. More to follow on the official Celtic website.[/article]
The talented striker becomes Brendan Rodgers’ first signing of the summer and the highly-rated 19-year-old Frenchman will join up with his new team-mates for pre-season training in Slovenia.
Dembele joins the Hoops from English Championship side Fulham where he moved to at the age of 16 after starting his career in France with Paris Saint-Germain.
The teenager enjoyed a successful debut campaign, winning the Premier Academy League with the club’s Under-18 team, before starring for the Cottagers in the Premier League and the Championship, where he scored 17 goals in all competitions last season.
The forward’s stunning season unsurprisingly made him a much sought-after player in the summer transfer window, and Celtic have won the race for his signature.
Moussa Dembele will speak to Celtic TV later today. More to follow on the official Celtic website.[/article]
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Pellebastard was all mine im afraid.
Simple but brilliant.
Like me in many ways.
It is beautiful in it's own, brutal way, I agree.
We should bring it back for someone deserving. I miss the old nicknames.
Nicolas Nkoulou - Lyon (free transfer)
Replacement for Samuel Umtit it seems.
Replacement for Samuel Umtit it seems.
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