As clubs scrambled for some last ditch action, we fans were treated to perhaps one of the busiest transfer deadline days in recent memory.
It was bound to bear some excitement, as some deals, such as Arsenal’s Shkodran Mustafi and Lucas Perez, were done and dusted and just awaited public announcement. However, what brought even more excitement were the so-called ‘surprise’ moves from clubs, best exemplified by David Luiz’s return to Chelsea.
So, the deadline day brought excitement, even more excitement, and a mixture of anxiety and nervousness for all fans, regardless of where their loyalties lie. Here are the top 3 bits of business from the big day:
- Paco Alcácer, from Valencia to Barcelona – I think many people underestimate Alcácer’s abilities due to his level of inconsistency at Valencia. There’ve been glimpses which have showcased his brilliant technique on the ball, but it has been more evident when he’s been wearing the La Roja jersey rather than the Bats’. Playing second fiddle to Luis Suarez in a team which likes to possess the ball a lot in Barcelona might be the breakthrough he needs in his career. In addition, £25.5m for a striker in the current market is an absolute bargain.
- Wilfried Bony, from Man City to Stoke City (loan) – Bony’s inevitable move away from the Etihad has finally happened. However, more interestingly, it hasn’t been that disappointing, as most of the deals are when they are forced through. Stoke City desperately needed a centre-forward who could hold up the ball in tight spaces and play little one-twos; they’ve certainly got that in Bony. The Ivorian is desperate to prove himself once again as the lethal finisher we all knew him to be during his time at Swansea, and this move will markedly improve both the club and the player. (This is our cheeky pick of the week for FPL!)
- David Luiz, from PSG to Chelsea – Laugh all you want. Go ahead.
The fact of the matter remains that this can turn out to be one of the signings of the entire transfer window, if it has the knock-on effect that I think it will have on the atmosphere at Stamford Bridge. Luiz may be a ‘questionable’ defender, but he clearly loves playing for Chelsea, and the fans adore him for his fuzzy personality. He has the chance to become a cult hero for the Blues, and his clear and evident passion for the club is something Chelsea and Conte will feel is a big boost to this squad’s hopes of title contention. If Conte can straighten out some of the defensive decision-making that the Brazilian has had troubles with throughout his career, this is the signing that will make Chelsea the 2016/17 Premier League champions.
Thoughts? I know you’ve got plenty. Share them in the comments section below.
