Transfer Round Up #2

Back with my weekly ‘Transfer Thursday’ I’ve taken a look at the stars keen to make an impression in the Premier League this January.

Jean Makoun
Lyon – Aston Villa

Late last week, we were told that Gerard Houiller had finally signed target Jean Makoun, having been keen on him for some time. Makoun played as a defensive midfielder for Lyon in Ligue 1 and he wasn’t shy of scoring for Les Gones, scoring 8 goals in 76 appearances. £6 million may seem a bargain deal for a player that has impressed in Lyon but only time will tell if he can make an impression in the world’s top flight. 

Modric Staying Put..For Now

Luka Modric today ended speculation on a move away from White Hart Lane insisting that he was happy in London and is enjoying playing for Tottenham Hotspur.

Brum Agree Keane Fee

At last, salvation for poor Robbie Keane. Or is it? Today reports emerged of Irish skipper Robbie Keane on a proposed move to Birmingham. It had been an ‘on-off’ move prior to this week, being just pure speculation, but today’s rumors confirm there has, in fact, been a bid accepted from Birmingham for the purchase of the out of form striker.

Spurs Sign South African Defender Bongani Khumalo

Tottenham have completed the transfer of Bongani Khumalo from South African side Supersport United on a four-and-a-half year deal.

Khumalo had impressed at a trial for Spurs last July and impressed during the summer for World Cup hosts South Africa, scoring a goal in their 2-1 victory over a dismal France side.

Harry Redknapp has signed Khumalo on a four and a half year contract for a fee in the region of £1.5 million. Khumalo had been relatively successful back in home country South Africa for club level as he had won three consecutive titles for SuperSport United but the 23 year old is yearning for more triumph as he has now joined one of the top clubs in England.

Khumalo said:

“I’m looking to learn as fast as I can and do all I can to contribute to this wonderful team.

“All the players are very professional and very good, genuine guys and quality players. I’ve been very fortunate to just be a part of that and take in the experience so far.

“They’ve done so well this season and there are quality players all around. I just want to be part of the success.

“I want to win games here, I want to win titles – that’s what the game’s about. I’ve been fortunate to experience some success in my career back home lifting trophies and I would like to do the same here. The feeling is addictive.

“It’s a higher level, it’s not easy but I’m going to give it my best and contribute as best as I can to the team’s success.”

Khumalo could be seen as the defensive antidote for Harry’s side as Ledley King, Johnathan Woodgate and William Gallas all currently hog the Spurs physio room. Khumalo is likely to feature tomorrow as Tottenham take on former Premier league rivals Charlton, a bout which should be easy pickings for Redknapp’s men.

Spurs Edge Closer To Landing David Beckham

Harry Redknapp yesterday spoke of his admiration to land ageing Premier League Veteran David Beckham on a three month stint from LA Galaxy. He also mentioned that David had agreed to arrive at White Hart Lane. Both clubs are now waiting on permission from LA Galaxy to loan Beckham out to the London side.

Redknapp said:

‘David could make a big impact. It’s whether Galaxy will let him go on loan. If they did we’d be interested. He’d give the whole place a lift.

“He’s been a fantastic player and someone the players would look up to and respect. He can do a job for sure. If he’s over his injury and is as fit as he thinks, then he could still play at the top level.”

“I’m not sure Beckham would start in place of Aaron Lennon but Harry would definitely play him from time to time and if Lennon gets injured Beckham could get a run out as there’s not much support on the right wing at White Hart Lane at the moment as David Bentley’s been linked to Newcastle on a loan deal.”

David Beckham is loved by many in England, most memorably Manchester, and would welcome a move back to England to aid Harry’s midfield. He could also do with the fitness for March, when the MLS season to start up again.