Players on the move: Join Razeen Gutta for a weekly roundup of all the biggest deals taking place around South Africa and Europe.
Strikers Timo Werner and Benjamin Sesko have both sealed moves to Leipzig, while former Orlando Pirates man Wayde Jooste is off to Supersport United.
Europe
Werner has rejoined his former club from Chelsea for £25 million (R500 million) after a disappointing two years in London.
Leipzig’s deal for Sesko, on the other hand, also affects the Blues, with Thomas Tuchel’s side reportedly showing interest in the Salzburg striker throughout the window. Even more than that, however, the deal affects Manchester United.
The Red Devils have had the Slovenian on their radar for quite some time; and his move to Leipzig now reduces Erik Ten Hag’s available options.
Bologna striker Marko Arnautovic was apparently viewed as an option for the Old Trafford side. However, GOAL have reported that the club have now opted against pursuing him after backlash from the fans.
The United faithful were disappointed with the short-term nature of the Arnautovic move, with the former West Ham man already 33 years of age.
Brazilian winger Antony has also been an option for United. However, Ajax have reportedly demanded too high a transfer fee for United to budge.
The player is also not an out and out centre forward, something Ten Hag would ideally want, considering Anthony Martial’s fitness and the uncertainty of star man Cristiano Ronaldo.
Staying in England, Wolverhampton Wanderers have lost their captain, at least for the short term, to an adamant Frank Lampard and Everton.
The Merseyside Blues have made a statement of intent at the back with the signing of Conor Coady on a season-long loan deal — not long after Ben Godfrey sustained an injury that will see him out for up to three months.
Across Europe in Spain, Barcelona’s financial struggles continue with their attempts to reduce the wage bill now affecting the future of Dutch international Memphis Depay.
The striker has reportedly been offered to Juventus with the Serie A side expected to meet with the player’s representatives this week to see if a move is feasible.
South Africa
In local news, Wayde Jooste has started training with SuperSport United after his departure from Orlando Pirates, Soccer Laduma have reported.
The 30-year-old full back recently had his contract in Soweto terminated and looks set to officially join Gavin Hunt’s team in the coming days.
Meanwhile at Kaizer Chiefs, Mozambique international Edmilson Dove looks to complete a move after completing his medical, according to GOAL.
The 28-year-old previously played for Cape Town City and has become a priority for the Soweto Giants after Arthur Zwane said his side were on the prowl for a left-footed defender.
Image source: @TimoWerner
