Transfer ratings: Willian, Van de Beek, Hojbjerg, Dias and Fofana analysed
New York TimesAt the start of Warnock, the fly-on-the-wall documentary that follows Neil Warnock’s 2004-05 season with Sheffield United, there’s an exchange between the infamous manager and a young fan that perfectly captures the differing views towards transfers between those working inside the game and the fans on the outside. This season that’s dropped down to 1.2 per 90, with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s 0.8 per 90 the only lower figure among Premier League wingers. Grade: A Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg Club: Tottenham Age: 25 From: Southampton Fee: £15 million Premier League minutes : 1,440 The one-word summary of Hojbjerg’s performances for Spurs so far would be “solid”. All in, £15 million for a 25-year-old defensive midfielder who’s adapted well to a counter-and-shell Mourinho side is great value, and like Fofana is one of the better signings of the summer window. Grade: B+ Donny van de Beek Club: Manchester United Age: 23 From: Ajax Fee: £35.1 million Premier League minutes : 251 Van de Beek’s start to life at Manchester United… well, it’s tough to say it’s even got started yet.