bodacious benny wrote: ↑Mon Feb 03, 2025 11:28 am
Valentino's fast feet wrote: ↑Mon Feb 03, 2025 11:03 am
As for the summer, if we don't do any significant business it will be a travesty. I think we will though, with the three year psr cycle lapsing from the first big spend window. The cl amd added as money banked on the prior financial year, and potentially the Kelly fee too.
Agree 100% with this.
There is no excuse not to make significant improvements this summer. With the extra income you mention, the big signings from 3 years ago falling off the PSR cycle (very little spend since), Kelly money, Almiron money, likely some Trippier money in summer (and wages saved), Wilson's wages should be off the books too come 01st July we should be in a position to invest well (and we'll need to...). If not then Howe can really say he's been hung out to dry.
In summer we'll have / need:
Goalkeeper: okay if Pope and Dubravka stay, though not out of the question that Dubs is sold / goes and we sign a new #1. Not a priority though unless one leaves.
Right back: Tino = Krafth cover.
Trippier likely to leave so need a cover RB really.
Centre back: Botman, Schar and Burn all stay.
Need a right sided CB to replace Schar ultimately. Lascelles likely released.
Left back: Hall with Targett as back-up,
could do with left back cover / rotation if Targett has no future.
Centre mid: absolutely fine, Miley could/should be getting more game time and Longstaff can do a job. Hope Willock rediscovers some form.
Left wing: fine if Barnes stays.
Right wing: Been our #1 target for years now, the
bulk of spend should be here. Murphy a great rotation option.
Striker: Howe clearly doesn't think Osula is close to being ready and with Wilson leaving we
100% need a new striker.
Top 3 priorities for me should be:
- Right winger
- striker
- centre back
Nice to haves will be fullback cover.