Today we see the culmination of several seemingly inevitable deals.
Man Utd sign Wigan winger Valencia
This has been rumoured for months, if not years, and Cristian Ronaldo's departure only made it more likely. Certainly not a galactico, but Valencia is a proven Premier League player. He's also a true right winger which is something ManU hasn't had for the length of CRon's conversion into a center forward. He'll stretch the field, put in crosses, and has the potential to make everyone around him better.
It will be interesting to see how Wigan replaces him. They've already signed Jordi Gomez but he's a central/left-sided player and not a like for like replacement. In fact, Wigan are overloaded on the left with Koumas, Kapo and N'Zogbia as attacking flank players for that side. Maybe Daniel de Ridder will prove himself at this level if given a run of games on the right. However, he's been notable for not being notable at all in the Premier League so far. Wigan will be linked with a lot of players such as Jermaine Pennant (available on a free), and David Bentley. I'll suggest they look to Newcastle United's Jonás Gutiérrez. He should be available and would give them all the running they could want on that side and no little invention as well.
Burnley land Fletcher
Burnley complete Mears deal
Burnley start building their squad for the next level, and are hoping that these two fit the bill. However, Mears certainly hasn't proven himself yet and players who starred in Scotland but couldn't make the grade in England are a dime a dozen. Mears was at least cheap at 1/2 million. Compared to Glen Johnson's 17million price tag and you think if Burnley get a servicable 30 games from him they'll have found a bargain.
Wolves snap up record signing Doyle
Meanwhile Wolves continues their own rebuilding effort. Again they've chosen to pick over the bones of Championship rivals Reading and now Doyle joins goalkeeper Marcus Hahnemann back in the Premier League. I think it's a good signing. Doyle had a great rookie season in the Premier League and like the rest of the team, a lousy sophmore season. But experience counts, good and bad.
Blackburn sign N'Zonzi
The next, next, next Patrick Viera. He's only 20, so perhaps one for the future. But at 6'2", he's a typical Big Sam signing.
The question becomes, if Big Sam continues to make over Blackburn in a Bolton mold, will fantasy manager be advised never to bet on or against them?
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