This summer in the football world all talk has been about signings yet to happen. Will Fabregas leave Barcelona for Manchester United? Will Real Madrid manage to tempt Gareth Bale from Spurs? Will Rooney be playing in London come August 17? Nevertheless there have already been many significant, tactical buys. After a busy transfer period, there are plenty of new recruits who’ll want to make a good first impression come the start of the season. We take a look at the debuts we’re most looking forward to.
Wilfried Bony, Swansea City
We’re not looking forward to seeing Bony in action so much as we are to seeing how he partners with the Swans’ Spanish goal-machine, Michu. Michael Laudrup shelled out a record £12 million for the Ivory Coast international who has already bagged two goals in his pre-season debut against Malmo. With Michu scoring 18 Premier League goals for the Welsh side last season and Bony netting 30 in 31 games for former club Vitesse Arnhem, pundits and fans alike are expecting them to form one of the most devastating double acts in 2013/2014.
Jesus Navas, Manchester City
It comes as no surprise that City have brokered the biggest deal so far of the transfer window, spending £30 million to bring Brazilian midfielder Fernandinho from Shakhtar Donetsk. The signing of Navas for £15 million is a steal in comparison and one that could ultimately reap more rewards. Navas, a right-footed right-winger, will be employed to give City a width in the middle of the park that they have lacked. By stretching the play, he’ll give more room for City’s attacking midfielders to make life uncomfortable for anyone they meet this season. For sports news relating to football and other sports, follow the link.
Antonio Luna, Aston Villa
Villa was quick on the ball when it came to summer signings, snapping up striker Nicklas Helenius from Aalborg and another Dane Jores Okore at centre-back. Luna has also been brought in to shore up a defence that was lopsided at best last season, conceding 69 goals in total (a figure only beaten by relegated Wigan and Reading). Paul Lambert is looking to build a young squad and the left-back position needed reinforcing with Joe Bennet having an inconsistent season last time around.
Arouna Koune, Everton
This will be Everton’s first season without long-time manager David Moyes after his departure to Manchester United. And with Fellaini seeming interested in following his former boss to Old Trafford, current manager Roberto Martinez has been wise to invest in a new striker. Koune stood out in an otherwise disappointing season for Wigan yet some fans were somewhat disappointed that Goodison Park couldn’t attract a bigger name. There fears might prove unfounded as the Ivorian will be keen to prove himself if Fellaini goes.
Nathan Redmond, Norwich City
Many will have their eye on Norwich’s young signing in his first season in the top flight. At only 19, Redmond has already made a name for himself playing for Birmingham City and the England Under-21 team. Norwich manager, Chris Hughton has already been impressed by the youngster’s pre-season form and believes the talented winger can challenge more established players like Kevin Pilkington.
