A tale of two strikers on busy transfer day
IT WAS a tale of two strikers on a busy day of transfer activity in Wales yesterday.
While Cardiff City looked set to solve their problem position by pushing through a deal for German front man Robert Glatzel, the future of Swansea City talisman Oli McBurnie remains in doubt.
Heidenheim striker Gklatzel was in the Welsh capital ahead of a proposed move that could cost in the region of £5.5m.
The Bluebirds are hopeful that Glatzel will be a big star in the Championship, having been impressed by his tally of 13 goals in 26 games in the German second tier last season.
His exploits in Germany also saw him net a hat-trick in the DFB-Pokal tie with Bayern Munich a few months ago, while he also scored three goals in the 5-1 hammering of Middlesbrough in pre-season.
The signing of Glatzel would certainly be in line with previous suggestions from both boss Neil Warnock and club insiders.
It was a good day all round for the Bluebirds as they also confirmed the signing of Gavin Whyte from Oxford United.
The winger becomes Cardiff’s sixth signing of the summer, following on from Will Vaulks, Curtis Nelson, Joe Day, Aaron Bolger and Aden Flint.
Whyte scored nine goals for Oxford United last season, and has so far won five international caps for Northern Ireland, having scored on his international debut with his first touch last September.
Speaking to the club’s official website, Whyte said: “I’m delighted. When I first heard about the move, I couldn’t wait to come here.
“I give 100% – I’m a hard worker, I’m positive, I like to go forward and take players on...
“Now I can’t wait to get the kit on, play as many games as I can and help this great club to be where they need to be.”
Boss Neil Warnock added: “I watched a lot of Gavin while we were scouting Curtis Nelson.
“He just excited me so much. He’s full of enthusiasm and is just the type of player that we were looking for.
“I think he’ll be a fans’ favourite for years to come.”
However, possibly heading out of Cardiff City Stadium is full-back Greg Cunningham who looks to be surplus to requirements at the club.
Down west at the Liberty Stadium speculation as to the future of McBurnie intensified with the Swans reported to be seriously considering an improved bid from Premier League new boys Sheffield United.
The latest offer from the Blades could result in a deal for the Scotland international that rises to £20m.
Championship Swansea have previously turned down bids from United, the last worth £15m.
McBurnie, 23, has not pushed to leave, but a move looks increasingly likely.
Swansea yesterday also announced midfielder Matt Grimes would be their skipper for the new season.