Unless, of course, that would mean there’s not then enough in the budget for another upgrade.

I got vision, and the rest of the world wears bifocals.

Probably away on holiday if he has any sense.

It's a tricky one as it sounds as if he would be worth every penny of 25m (in the messed up world of football transfer fees) and it is probably the area of the pitch we most need signings. One good season and we could potentially double our money; of course, these things can easily go the other way too. With reported losses of £40m and no player sales (so far) or any significant earners off the books it may just be we won't see any big deals this summer. If reports of us offering £4m for the Peterborough lad are true it may be we are back to scratching and scraping after last summer's relative splurge.

From what I've heard we are the only serious offer on the table despite his clubs claim to the contrary. They are trying to squeeze a bit of last minute extra money and Palace seem to be saying no. Palace remain confident he is coming to us so I think their bluff has been called.

Reports today that we have opened up with a formal approach for 17 mill Euros. Lens asking for 25 mill.

Completely expect it to be rejected. All part of the negotiating process. My money would be on us agreeing 22 mill Euros plus add ons or something around that mark. Comes to about 18 to 19 mill in pounds.