Premier League Transfer Latest
Deco,Bosingwa,Jo,Elmander and Gutierrez Transfers
Jo - CSKA Moscow to Manchester City
Perhaps the most exciting capture of the summer so far is the signing of 6ft 3in Brazilian front man Jo by Manchester City. The elegant forward has scored 44 goals in 77 games for CSKA Moscow in the last three seasons and has been capped by Brazil. Although sceptics will be quick to highlight the gulf in class between the Russian and English Leagues, Jo’s goal scoring performances against Inter Milan in the Champions League show he can cut it at the top level. At the ripe age of 21, he has the technical and physical attributes required to potentially be a big success in the Premier League.
Jonas Gutierrez – Real Mallorca to Newcastle United
Gutierrez joined Newcastle on a five year deal to become Kevin Keegan’s first summer signing. Although not known for his goal scoring capabilities, Gutierrez tricky wing play has seen him become a regular squad player for Argentina since his debut in February 2007. Known as ‘Spiderman’ due to his extravagant goal celebrations, Newcastle fans will be hoping the Argentine can spin The Premier League defenders into his web.
Johan Elmander – Toulouse FC to Bolton Wanderers
Following Sweden’s Euro 2008 departure, Bolton boss Gary Megson moved quickly to secure the services of Elmander for a fee reported to be around 10 million pounds. A skilful forward, Elmander has showed glimpses of his talent for Sweden, scoring eleven goals in 38 appearances for Sweden. However, his failure to succeed in France albeit in a struggling Toulouse side, coupled with his hefty price tag, make Elmanders signing a real gamble for Bolton.
Deco – Barcelona to Chelsea
Perhaps the most high profile transfer of the summer so far has seen the much decorated Portuguese play maker Deco move to Chelsea from Barcelona. For many years Deco has been seen as one of the most talented footballers of his generation, winning two La Liga championships and the Champions League in his time at Barcelona. His failure to hold down a starting place for Barcelona and the lack of influence he exerted on Portugal’s Euro 2008 campaign suggest to many that at 30 years old his powers are on the wane. However, although he may not be in the physical shape he once was his experience, vision and creative nous can still be a great asset to Phil Scolari and his team in their quest for domestic and European success.
Jose Bosingwa – Porto to Chelsea
Although the transfer of Bosingwa to Chelsea was finalised prior to the European Champions, his arrival at Stamford Bridge is still sure to excite the Blues fans. Although Portugal failed to progress past the quarter finals of the Euros, Bosingwa’s constant raids down the right flank showed energy and adventure that Chelsea have maybe missed over the last couple of seasons. Although he may still show defensively frailties, Bosingwa is sure to be the type of signing that will excite the Chelsea faithful and possibly signal a more aggressive attacking approach for Chelsea next season.
