The new Spanish La Liga season is almost upon us, and while it’s expected to be a two-horse race, Barcelona and Real Madrid have been quiet in the off-season while some challengers have spent.
Here’s Sports Pundit’s top five off-season transfers;
5. Diego Lopez – Villarreal to Sevilla, 3.5m
The veteran goalkeeper has left relegated Villarreal after five years at the Yellow Submarine, penning a five-year contract with top-four hopefuls Sevilla. The club’s number one Andres Palop is 39 in October and nearing retirement, so Diego Lopez’s arrival is timely, although they may not enjoy the benefits immediately.
4. Aritz Aduriz – Valencia to Athletic Bilbao, 2.5m
The 31-year-old San Sebastian-born striker returns to the Basque Country after four years away following spells at Mallorca and Valencia. Aduriz failed to really recapture his best form at Los Che, having joined for €4 million, but a return to Bilbao could be just what he needs to get the most out of his talents.
3. Sergio Canales – Real Madrid to Valencia, 7.5m
After a loan spell with Valencia last term, Canales has officially made his stay with the club permanent. And the 21-year-old attacking midfielder will be like a new signing having spent most of last season on the sidelines following a knee ligament injury which ruled him out for six months. Having signed a five-year deal, it’s obvious Valencia have big plans for Canales.
2. Fernando Gago – Real Madrid to Valencia, 3.5m
The 26-year-old Argentina international has officially left Real after spending last campaign on loan in Italy with AS Roma. Valencia won the race for the defensive midfielder’s signature for a fee reportedly worth €3.5 million and they have huge expectations for him in building moves and orchestrating play.
1. Jordi Alba – Valencia to Barcelona, 14m
The dimunitive Spanish left-back signed with the Catalans in midst of the 2012 European Championships where he proved to be a revelation for the eventual winners. With age on his side, at just 23, and with versatility, he’ll surely prove a huge asset for Barcelona. Alba is hardened at the top level too, having made 50 appearances for Los Che last term, and he fills a gap in the Barca line-up which only makes them stronger.