I haven't seen or heard much banter about whether we will find another gem during the last few days of this transfer window and it makes me wonder if we are even looking. Whether or not anything has been suggested, or discussed, by our team of leaders remains a question, or are we strapped for money after the 5.8 million spent on Diedhiou? The season won't get any easier from here and when you factor in possible injuries or suspensions the cupboard could look a little bare, even given that we have several on the treatment table as we speak. Does anybody have any insight on the incomings, and possible outgoings, that could be possible this week?
Someone at Sky tweeted the other day that we were about to reveal a good loan signing, but nothing's come of that (yet). It seemed clear that we were looking for a keeper, but it seems as though our main targets have been no-gos. I see us signing this Icelandic lad we have on trial, but I'd be very surprised if he were better than Fielding. Beyond that, I can't see us signing someone who would go straight into the starting lineup. I'm happy to be proved wrong though...
Rumour is Jonathan Leko from WBA but as I said just a rumour. Tommy and his mates from Sweden who post on OTIB regularly say the Icelandic keeper plays in Sweden and is awful and don't know why we offered him a trial. One of them I would take as a pinch of salt but it was all the ones from over there all the same opinion.
On the keeper side of the equation wasn't Rob Green available until just a few days ago? Not being well enough up on the day to day gossip I though he may have been a good shout for us because he has had international experience even it was fraught with criticism if my memory serves me correctly. I also think salaries expected from some of the potential signings are high and there's no way we can, or hopefully never will, throw ridiculous money on the table to bring questionable players to Ashton Gate. It must be difficult for management to follow a more sensible and fiscally responsible route but that's what me must do despite questions as to our commitment to higher football.
Yep signed for them but going to be either number 2 or worse number 3 to Lossl and Coleman. As I doubt he will take number one off Lossl
before I went North, 2 weeks ago the tea ladies cat said money on the table to sign 1 and a loan signing imminent ... well in came Woodrow, money on the table as far as "we all know/suspect this is still there ... the cat has gone tomming ! and the window closes in a few days .. Tuesday looks a good day!
It's incredibly easy to spend money on old rope, so from that perspective I wouldn't be upset if we make no more signings, but if there's a surprise or two that city that can pull out of the bag then I would welcome it. I think we lack depth in goalkeepers, though I think Fielding has started the season well & I do wonder if Lucic could make an impression if given the chance. Striker wise we have a certain number of eggs in Diedhiou's basket - whilst I do think he's more of a support striker than say Abraham, I do think that he needs to adapt more to the English game, as he has the qualities but has now underwhelmed a few too many times. I think Djuric might contribute if fit, but maybe Taylor is our most likely to regularly score if he finds form - he needs to produce this season if he's to be trusted. Apparently we have the option to sign Woodrow permanently, so he needs to do everything he can to prove he's worth it. Midfield, I think one more physical presence could be valuable - a tough f**ker in the Roy Keane mold (albeit scaled down obviously) would be ideal. O'Dowda could be brilliant out wide & Eliasson looks good in highlights, but again, crunch time is fast approaching - potential is great, but useless if unfulfilled Centre defence, we're well set, though worry for class acts Hegeler & Magnusson's game time - Pisano looks good at right back & Bryan's ability going forward mostly makes up for some defensive deficiencies & Vyner & Kelly offer depth (kudos to the academy).
I don't get this desperation for a keeper. Yes it's good to have a decent choice, but Frankie hasn't done badly to-date and has kept us in a couple of games by his saves. I would be prioritising a strong midfielder myself - like another Pack (only more consistent) - a Marvin Elliott time-travelled from 2007/8 would be nice!
please log in to view this image Jonathan Leko All a bit vague at the moment unfortunately, but here is what we do know: Rumours started yesterday afternoon after Sky Sports reportedly linked the West Bromwich Albion forward with City. It is suggested the deal is as far down the line as the youngster travelling to Ashton Gate. However, there is no confirmation of this at this stage. The news comes two days after West Brom boss Tony Pulis confirming a trio from his club would be going on loan this season. He told the Express and Star on Friday: “We’ve got Leko, Kane and Rak hopefully going out on loan this week so those three now - if we get the players we want in - will be given the opportunity to play league football.”
