Thursday, August 23, 2007

Fulham add 4th Yank in Keller; Belletti to Chelski...

After another soft performance from Tony Warner, Fulham have added their fourth Yank in GK Kasey Keller to compete for first-choice duties while Antii Niemmi is injured:
Fulham have added yet another American to their ranks, snapping up free agent goalkeeper Kasey Keller whose contract with Borussia Mönchengladbach was not renewed following last season's relegation campaign.

Keller, 37, is expected to slot into the starting lineup immediately with first choice keeper Antti Niemi currently injured and backup Tony Warner having three inconsistent performances to open the season.

"It was important that we added some strength and depth," Fulham boss Lawrie Sanchez said in a press release. "Kasey is a proven professional with impeccable international credentials.
After striking out on acquiring Alves, Chelsea have acquired Brazilian right back Juliano Belletti:

However, the arrival of World Cup winner Gianluca Zambrotta squeezed Belletti out of the Barca first team.

"I know a bit about what the Premier League is like," added Belletti. "I know it's a tough league but I'm coming here with plenty of ambition and desire. I want to win trophies.

"I am a typical Brazilian full-back. I like to get forward up the wing."

Chelsea are believed to have turned their attention to Belletti after their attempt to sign Dani Alves stalled again.

Sevilla turned down two improved offers for the full-back this week, with Chelsea and Real Madrid both in the hunt.

The Spanish club were understood to want £27m for Alves but Chelsea chairman Bruce Buck said the club would not be forced into spending above the market price.

"When we are buying players there is no doubt about it there is one price for Chelsea and one price for everyone else," Buck told 5live.

"We have to do our best to fight that."

Great quote from Bruce Buck - perhaps if Chelski didn't buy players at exorbitant prices every year then teams wouldn't expect to get more than fair value when you want one of their players.

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