Deadline day is never quiet on Wearside. But it was predominantly a day of if’s and but’s this time round. It began this morning when Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie quashed any rumours that Liverpool defender Tiago Ilori was on the club’s radar.
It was clear that if there was to be any movement with the Wearsiders it would be to reinforce the defense following the permanent signing of Fabio Borini yesterday.
Rumours were flying, but there was one, in particular, that stuck. José Enrique was the name out of the hat. The 29-year old Argentinian did previously spend time in the North East at bitter rivals Newcastle. But since joining Liverpool found his chances limited. Especially this season with Brendan Rodgers deploying Joe Gomez in the left back role with Alberto Moreno providing more than capable backup.
Various sources had the Enrique move gathering pace until Sky Sources said the club was not interested. Paving the way for him to join West Bromwich Albion, a move that in the end did not materialize.
Whilst most of the focus lay on players coming in the door, talk of potential outgoings lay pretty tame. A long-term injury to Max Gradel of Bournemouth led to rumours the South Coast club submitted a £1.5m bid for Will Buckley. This interest alongside Sheffield Wednesday’s interest in Liam Bridcutt did not last. With the Football League loan window opening in eight days, this is the last opportunity for players surplus to requirements to get some playing time over the latter stages of the calendar year.
With only a few hours of the window remaining attentions turned to DeAndre Yedlin from Tottenham Hotspurs. The 22-year-old American International, who is currently with the USA national team, looked set to find himself playing football in Denmark this season with both AAB and Midjtiland expressing a strong interest. Although after these moves fell through the pacey American clearly became appealing enough for Lee Congerton and co to make a move. The deal was wrapped up swiftly and 30 minutes before the deadline.
He will join up with the squad after the international break on a season-long loan. A move that makes sense after Adam Matthews was ruled out for six weeks earlier this week and the boys capability of playing each side of a back for.
With one incoming and no outgoings, it certainly wasn’t a transfer window many will remember. But reflecting on business as a whole over the summer prompts encouraging signs for the season ahead despite this shaky start.
