12th January 2005: Senor Almeyda
remains conspicuous by his absence from West Bromwich today. Under
Gary Megson, the club never announced a deal until it was signed and
sealed - situations like this make that a sensible precaution. Robson
indicated that Almeyda was on his way a couple of weeks ago, and the
delay to his arrival is certainly a worrying sign. Has the Argentinian
international decided against a tough relegation battle in favour
a more cushy number in Italy? There is nothing to suggest that is
the case, other than the seemingly interminable delay to his arrival,
and if he still hasn't been to the Hawthorns, does that mean he is
yet to pass a medical? I'm probably being a little pessimistic, but
I see Almeyda as a key signing that could make a huge impact. If he
doesn't arrive tomorrow, I wouldn't expect him to be involved in Sunday's
crucial game, which would be a huge shame.
There are a few other rumours emanating from the Hawthorns today.
Juventus defender Nicola Legrottaglie is apparently close to joining
although reports yesterday suggested that Aston Villa were about to
steal him from under our noses. And on the outbound side, Artim Sakiri
has attracted the attentions of Leeds United. I said yesterday that
he could do a job in this country, and Leeds could well fit the bill
- let's hope he gets on better with the fans there than our last export
to Elland Road, Sean Gregan.
Perhaps the most surprising piece of news is that Neil Clement is
drawing interest from Scotland manager, Walter Smith. Once touted
as a future England prospect when he first joined the Baggies, I had
no idea he was eligible to play for Scotland. Smith was due to watch
Clem at Preston last weekend, but the adverse weather stopped him
from making the trip. I must say that, given Scotland's recent record,
Clem could do a good job for them on current form.
The January transfer window is proving to be an active one already,
and is already more successful than the one two years ago and we're
not yet half way through. The noises are far more positive, but it
remains to be seen whether any of Robson's Italian-based targets will
brave the move to the Black Country.
Watch this space....
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