by MM »
11 Jul 2021 17:43
A first choice left-back would seem to be the clear priority but that could well end up being a loan - somebody like Maatsen.
A winger or two with the right flank being most important as there is nobody really to play that side without Olise & Meite.
A striker able to lead the line on his own as the drop off in quality from Joao is immense and his injury record doesn't suggest he will manage a full 46-game season.
A central midfielder capable of playing box-to-box or the Pele/Semedo role to supplement Rinomhota, Laurent & Tetek.
Possibly another centre-back, ideally similar to Gibson who could also play left-back (again feel this could be a loan). Or if McIntyre is going to be shifted there, a younger centre-back like Tucker could be useful if he is still on the radar.
Despite the embargo, good value can still be found from loans and free transfers. If (as suggested) free transfers can be on around £11k per week then the likes of ex-Luton man Pelly Ruddock Mpanzu would be attainable, and he would be a fantastic addition.
I'd happily sacrifice Puscas if there was any interest as he hasn't justified his fee or wages and the money can be put towards the black hole. If you take the right ones, free or loan players can still be good enough - although the former pool would have been better before 30th June. McNulty will presumably be allowed to leave too, although he could at a push be 3rd choice if a twin striker formation was ever going to be used.
Numbers can be boosted by Academy youngsters, but there is going to be a clear drop-off in terms of squad quality and depth which I think we should all be prepared for.