Honestly... From what I've read about his ability and his character, it wouldn't surprise me if he had preseason with the lads and the club fancied him as a worthwhile first choice. Sell Patto and bring in a quality and experienced Striker/Centre Half with that money. Risky but I can see it.
We should be reaming teams on fees though. It's a seller's market. 20 million up front or less with an appropriate sell on clause, 10 million and 50%, and so on.
Just think we would need to put a touch more quality/experience into the defensive line and maybe a CDM to take some pressure off him but I agree. Good enough. Old enough.
IF we did get good money for him the CDM and CF positions would be where I'd spend the money. Also, if we can keep Clarke for another year we could be in for a good season.
They could sweeten the deal by throwing in a striker on loan. Being honest, I'd take Adams, Armstrong, Stewart or Mara. On the subject of Southampton, I'd love us to make a move for Stuart Armstrong. I'm sure he'll have better offers than us, but plenty of experience on a free (I know wages etc.) would be a great addition.
Yeah, I'm hoping they look at Young as ready as it feels like Patto has probably plateaued in terms of the value we can expect from his transfer out.
Im sure it was the same thing with Shay Given, Blackburn reserves then us on loan then bang straight to the mags as no1 so it could happen.
Donnarumma had played over 100 games for Milan by the time he was 19. Just depends on the talent and their character. I've bought into the hype around Young so I'm hoping he can help us to the next level.
I agree that Young seems to be the real deal. I wonder if 1 more year on loan, ideally League One would just give him that bit more experience to set him up to take over.
Yeah that was my thinking behind keeping Patto fot another 12 months but if he is to go, might as well let Young develop with us rather than signing some stop gap.
Not that many that are English though and that gets a premium. I think 12-15 is probably the value range though.