Life on the ban!

Nearly a week has past since a transfer ban was imposed on Earle his Espanyol side. In just seven days Earle has already seen at least four transfer targets move elsewhere. With the likes of Emiliano Viviano, Rafael Galhardo, Gabriel Torje and Bakary Sako all now off the cards many have questioned how Earle will look to strengthen the squad. Despite this situation, Earle has remained confident that the squad will be improved once their ban is up.

Marco Ruben

With the ban in place Earle has been working hard to arrange several deals for when transfers are available. Marko Vejinovic has had his future set for some time with a move to Sunderland planned. Azevedo Silvio and Duncan Watmore will both join the Spanish side in exchange. With Alvaro Arbeloa expected to leave, Azevedo Silvio could play a huge roll in the teams season. Another deal which has been planned is the exit of Leonardo Pavoletti. The Italian forward will join Hellas Verona in a deal which will see Christian Kabasele and Onyinye Ndidi join in exchange. 


Andraz Sporar will also join for an undisclosed cash sum. Although none of the three are expected to make an immediate impact all can offer good depth and provide future options for the Spaniards. With Pavoletti on his way out a replacement forward was needed. In response to this Earle turned his attention to Standard Liege and their Argentine forward Marco Ruben. The 29 year old will join Espanyol and is likely to partner up with veteran Claudio Pizarro. Standard Liege will recieve Muhammet Demir and Zinho Gano. This deal has several conditions which must remain stable up until the deal is complete.

Federico
Mancuello

Following these announcements some fans have draw attention to the fact that a strong central midfielder, left back and goalkeeper are needed. In response Earle has assured that a new midfielder will be signed. With initial plans to sign Pape Diop thwarted by Cruzeiro, Earle has turned his attention to a far more unlikely option. The identity has not yet been disclosed but Earle expects a few fans to be surprised by the potential signing. He has also said that if they miss out on the desired player he is sure that Lukas Rupp or Federico Mancuello will be able to step up. When questioned about the left back position Earle suggested that Ragnar Klavan may be the man to fill the spot. Silvio or possibly Arbeloa could also threaten for the number 3 shirt. Rodriguez Jony is an outside chance to hold the position while reports of another anonymous signing are afloat. Finally, Earle has shed light on what fans can expect in terms of the goalkeeping situation next season. He indicated that he has faith in the current number 1, Volkan Demirel, and has suggested the 34 year old will hold the spot. He has also suggested that he expects Eloy Room to push Demirel for the starting spot. However, Earle has hinted that a replacement is on the cards. With interest in Onur Kivrak and Remy Riou reported, both Demirel and Room will know that the post and pre seasons will be key to their futures.