FTN: Latest on Axel Witsel, Boateng, Courtois and Willian
Today’s installment of Football Transfer News looks at the imminent transfer of Axel Witsel to Dortmund, and three Premier League moves, two of which could affect Chelsea FC.
Witsel to Borussia Dortmund
The German outfit has released a video of the Belgian midfielder arriving in his Volvo at their training centre. The transfer has not been formally confirmed yet. However, it is completed in de facto. This is a stellar signing for Die Schwarzgelben, who will bolster their midfield containing the likes of Mario Götze and Nuri Sahin. Indeed, this transfers seems to be engineered by the potential departure of Christian Pulisic. It is not a like for like replacement, but nevertheless, Dortmund will benefit from the experience of Axel Witsel. Even moving out to China, he kept his national team place ahead of the likes of Mousa Dembele. His combative style will help harden the heart of their midfield, whilst also adding some decent passing and insight from deep.
Manchester United Wants to Strengthen Defence with Boateng
Mourinho has been unhappy with his weak defence. He wants to bring in a top centre-back and has pursued Toby Alderweireld and Harry Maguire so far. Boateng would be an equally suitable centreback. Currently, he is at Bayern Munich and is a lynchpin in their defence. It would require quite a sum to prise him away from his club. However, it could be an important signing for the Reds, who need that added experience and quality in their squad. He has made over 50 Champions League appearances for Bayern alone. Strong, both in the air and on the ground, he has decent ball playing skills to make the transition into the Premier League.
Courtois Informs Sarri He Wishes to Leave
The Belgian number one shot-stopper has expressed his desire to move away from Chelsea FC. He has been at the club since 2011, making 126 Premier League appearances. Now, it appears he is keen to make a move. Real Madrid are at the front of the queue of clubs waiting for his signature. He has made his name at Chelsea with some top displays. Yet, he now wishes to capitalise on these displays with a boost to his wages. Willy Cabellero played in the Community Shield final, ahead of Courtois. The Argentine will be the new Chelsea first choice keeper if Courtois is to leave in the coming days. This isn’t a huge loss since he has plenty of experience and quality. However, they won’t have a great deal of depth beyond that. Rob Green is now on the club’s books but he is short of the top quality of Courtois.
Willian Confirms Barca Bid
Willian recently had to clear up a mess involving a falsified signature and a new agent. After the Community Shield match, he was quick to clear up any rumours once again. He confirmed that FC Barcelona had made an approach for the Brazilian. However, he restated that he wishes to stay at Chelsea FC. This is good news for the Blues since he is a key part of their squad. His trickery, pass, passing and ability to create goals is crucial to their success. He has scored twenty goals and made twenty-five assists in 166 Premier League appearances. He will likely remain at the London club to help them improve on their rather dismal fifth-place finish last season.
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