As much as the loss of star players hurts, I much prefer a transfer window like this to one of the past few years, where we obviously had problems replacing and financing players who had cost a fortune in the past and were no longer worth anything on the transfer market. And if I look at it realistically, whether I like it or not, it will be a long time before the dream club and ultimate destination for exceptional young talent is our club.

I admire your optimism PJ, but whilst our Academy squads are competing well in their respective leagues and cups, it's a massive leap from there to PL football. Part of the reason our Academy squads are competing well is that clubs such as Citeh, Liverpool, Chelsea and United have their better Academy players either out on loan at Championship level or better clubs or have them in their 1st team squads on a regular basis so they are no longer playing Academy football. Our one and only such player is Ozoh.

Having said that, if we continue to cement ourselves in the PL and become a club that challenges for Europe on occasions then the quality of youngsters attracted to our Academy is likely to improve. However, I don't expect to see any meaningful output so-to-speak for several years yet.

Latest clickbait has Chelsea offering 30 Million plus Madueke which isn't that bad a deal, Olise is very good but he has had numerous injuries

Good shout.

Red and Blue Army!

Fair enough - I just meant he looks like a good player. Plus young, but 35 does seem a bit much. Obviously, it's fine if you pay 35 and in six months they're worth 50 mil but it's a lot to pay on someone who may not necessarily work out. It's always a bit of a risk and a balancing act I guess.

Red and Blue Army!

I think if it is a way of getting a better overall return for Olise than just cash then this might be the sort of avenue to pursue, if possible.

Madueke is clearly a better option than the Sterling idea at 15% of his wages, He nailed down the right-wing position at the end of the season but seems a bit petulant (he was involved in that penalty fracas). Add in Broja and a bit of cash and it might look more enticing than a straight cash offer.