Chapter 167 An unexpected invitation
Chapter 167 An unexpected invitation
The time soon came to March 12th.
The entire city of Burton was transformed into a scene of ice and snow.
This isn't a big impact on the players, since training and matches still have to go on as usual.
Following the previous gathering, the veterans agreed to dedicate themselves to mentoring the younger players as a way of repaying the club for giving them opportunities.
The good news is that they have gradually regained their form since their crushing defeat to Liverpool.
They have had mixed results against other Premier League teams, and their ranking has consistently hovered around seventh or eighth place.
The players performed well, especially Enzo, who was in exceptionally good form after focusing on defense.
He once pushed Cazorla out of the starting lineup.
With only one week left before the winter transfer window opens, Li Yanqing finally received a reply from Felchar.
"Defensive midfielders are not easy to find."
"There are very few suitable candidates."
This is the original text that the other party attached to the email.
As for the targets he provided to Li Yanqing, there were three in total.
Two of them play for Real Madrid: Isco and Kovacic.
Then there's Witsel, who plays in the Chinese Super League.
This time, the people they found were exactly as he requested: they were the right age and all ready to fight.
But without exception, none of these people were cheap...
Isco has had fewer and fewer opportunities at Real Madrid in recent years, but his status in the team is not low, and he will definitely ask for a high salary.
As for Kovacic, he would be willing to sign him if the player is willing to come. The player has already been put on the transfer market and there will be no resistance.
The only problem is that they will likely have competitors.
As for Witsel, he has the ability, but he is probably seeking a transfer because the Chinese Super League can no longer afford his extremely high salary.
You can also try contacting them.
Li Yanqing immediately sent the information on the two players to Barker.
They will be the team's main transfer target in the winter transfer window.
In addition, Liverpool responded to questions regarding the transfer of goalkeeper Karius.
They would be happy to let the player go.
Klopp also gave Burton some helpful tips.
"The player is in a bad situation right now, and we hope he will have enough opportunities to prove himself again."
"But that won't work at Liverpool; there's absolutely no place for him there."
"If you're willing to guarantee him a minimum number of appearances each season, we can lower the transfer terms..."
It's clear that while Klopp didn't keep his promise not to give up on the players, he still hopes they can regain their form on their own.
He still cares about the players.
Li Yanqing agreed to this additional condition.
Because the minimum number of appearances is not many, only about five.
Burton could absolutely do it.
There will always be times when Joe Hart is not suitable to appear.
That will be his chance.
Finally, there were also some bad things.
That means many clubs are now eyeing Burton's players.
Both Matthias and Miller received bids.
However, Li Yanqing did not want to sell players. He had finally managed to stabilize the club's level, and rebuilding the team again at this time would be a disaster.
Besides bringing in a defensive midfielder, preserving the existing core of the team has also become an important task.
Fortunately, apart from Enzo, Burton had no players actively seeking a transfer.
Most players still care about the club.
Matias did reveal that he wouldn't mind playing for a top club, but he hasn't received any offers for that.
As one of the few players without any technical attributes, his overall strength is still quite lacking.
Li Yanqing thought he probably wouldn't be able to develop any technical terms.
The previous idea was that technical terms would appear as long as the capabilities were sufficient.
But it seems that's not the case now.
After observing enough players, he found that if someone hadn't developed that skill by the age of 25, it would be very difficult.
There are exceptions, though. Some individuals suddenly achieve great success in their thirties and become top players overnight.
Li Yanqing guessed that this situation was caused by all other conditions being met, but the technical terms not appearing.
However, Matias is not that kind of player; he is the type who relies purely on his physicality.
Your condition will only get worse as you get older.
The most surprising one was Miller.
He received a record-breaking transfer offer.
Atletico Madrid in La Liga paid him 30 million pounds!
This price might not be much for other talented players, but for this player who once struggled even in the Championship, it was an astronomical sum.
It's only ten million less than Burton's record signing, Anderson.
Miller himself was at a loss after learning the news.
"Is this news true, boss?"
"Atletico Madrid!"
"They paid such a high price for me!"
You can't blame the player for being excited, because this will be one of the most important things in his career.
His former teammates Williamson, Jamie, Ogradi, and even Palmer and Choudhury all easily outmaneuvered him.
But right now, only he has managed to attract the attention of top teams.
Murphy and Quinn weren't exactly long-time teammates; they were promoted later...
"Yes, Christmas is coming soon, but it's not April Fool's Day."
"It's not my style to lie to you for no reason..."
Li Yanqing confirmed the player's statement.
He looked at Miller, who was still covering his face, and patted him on the back with satisfaction.
This kid has finally gained recognition from others, how could he not be excited?
Come to think of it, Atlético Madrid's style of play is surprisingly suitable for him...
Moreover, the player himself is only 22 years old and is good in all aspects.
"Do you want to go, Miller?"
"You can make the decision about this yourself."
"I would agree if you wanted to go, but you are also welcome to stay if you wish."
"Do you want me to stay, boss?" Miller suddenly looked at Li Yanqing and asked.
I'd like to hear your advice.
"My suggestion?" Li Yanqing thought carefully for a while before answering.
"From my perspective, I hope you stay."
"But I have to say that Atletico Madrid is indeed a better fit for your future development."
"You might not be able to secure a starting position here."
Li Yanqing was very frank; this was his opinion.
As the team's only defensive winger who can play in all positions on both flanks, he is a great help to the team's tactics.
However, he obviously won't be a starter, but rather a versatile player who can be moved around wherever needed.
For the player's personal development, going to Atlético Madrid would actually be a better option.
"That's my opinion, and I hope you stay."
"But even if you go to Atletico Madrid, you will always be one of us."
"I've said before, the final decision rests with you..."
PS
Enzo will transfer at the end of this season, and the reasons should be clear.
Spoiler alert... His story has only just begun; he'll be back.
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