I was asked to put my Premier League and season predictions out last week but I politely said there is no way I can judge that yet without seeing the end to our transfer window. Because for me, we can still be very much hit, or very much miss this window.
The next five days could prove to be pivotal. Enzo Maresca wants another winger in, and ideally another attacking midfielder. Much to my annoyance and disbelief, they are ignoring the goalkeeper and centre back positions, seemingly until next summer or the winter window, and we all know how I feel about that and how much of a HUGE risk this will be.
But even still, without addressing those positions, we can still end up having a pretty decent window if we make the sales we need to make and sign in the positions Maresca is asking for. He also asked for a centre back by the way, do not forget that. I guess we will just operate a ‘we’ll score more than you’ ethos!
I think we’ve done some very good business so far and again, I’ll review it all once the window is closed. We’ve made some decent signings and got some very good money in for some of our outgoings. But there is still so much work to do in so little time. I’m a bit concerned about how this window is going to end, I can’t lie. The hard work so far could be undone.
The Fermin Lopez stuff is a little odd. He’s an attacking midfielder like Xavi Simons, yes, but they are two players with different attributes. Lopez is seemingly more of a goalscoring and direct attacking midfielder, whereas Simons is a bit more tricky and creative. So what is it we want from that position and that role? The Garnacho obsession is a bit odd and a massive risk as well. I’ve grown into it and have warmed to it a bit, but surely there are better wingers out there who are more proven that we could target? I rate the player but it’s a clear risk.
But anyway, I will make my full judgements when the window ends but I’ve lost a bit of confidence now. If we’ve spent the whole window trying to sign Simons and do not get it done I’m sorry but that would be nothing short of embarrassing. And don’t even get me started on the Mike Maignan ‘saga’ again….
