As we enter the last week of July, transfer rumors have finally begun to turn into official transfers. After several weeks of speculation, PSG secured the services of Roma’s Jeremy Menez and Saint Etienne’s Blaise Matuidi. The signings are the first since the arrival of Leonardo as director of the club.
Neither of these signings are a surprise and both go a long way in strengthening a roster built for titles. Both Menez and Matuidi are 24 years old and both have made appearances for France on the international level. Acquiring young talents who have proven their abilities against top talent is a major step in the long term vision that is coming into focus in Paris.
Menez is an attacking midfielder who found himself out of favor at Roma after having initial success. The former Monaco player has excellent speed and the ability to use both feet. He is able to line up in any attacking position but has been primarily used as a winger or play maker.
Coming to PSG will reunite Menez with his former Monaco teammate Nene. On paper, PSG is putting together what could be an exciting and versatile attack. With Kevin Gameiro brought into the fold earlier this summer and holdovers Guillaume Hoarau and Mathieu Bodmer, PSG looks poised to fill the score sheet this season.
Matuidi has been brought in as a direct replacement for retired legend Claude Makelele. The former Saint Etienne midfielder is regarded as one of the best tacklers in Ligue 1. Known for being a touchline to touchline ball winner, Matuidi will be very effective playing in front of highly regarded defender Mamadou Sakho.
Being strong up the middle should allow PSG’s backs to make runs further up the field, creating more havoc for opposing defenses. (For a more comprehensive look at Matuidi one can refer to my previous article: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/734737-arsenal-fc-and-liverpool-fc-target-blaise-matuidi-a-closer-look ).
Neither of these signings will be regarded as a big money signing considering the financial backing PSG has, but both are very effective additions. Bringing in proven talent who are just reaching their prime and locking them down for the next three years shows Leonardo is building a long term winner.
PSG has created a core of players in their early 20s to continue to build around. With Menez and Matuidi only 24, Gameiro 23 and Sakho 21, Leonardo is looking to put a stranglehold on Ligue 1 for the rest of the decade. A core like this will not only find domestic success but is bound to make some noise in Europe as well.
PSG is certainly not done shopping yet, but the additions made today are enough to get an already excited fan base ready for the season to start.
Mark Fraser Andy Greene zach Parise bryce Salvador Wade Belak Martin Erat
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