Madrid register their trophy intent
Friday, February 3, 2006
Article summary
Real Madrid CF, Arsenal FC and AFC Ajax made notable additions to their squads as they prepare for the resumption of the UEFA Champions League.
Article body
Madrid moves
With captain Raúl González set to miss much of the remainder of the season, Madrid have reinforced their attack by signing Italy forward Antonio Cassano from AS Roma. Brazilian international Cicinho is another attack-minded player, although the full-back's arrival at the Santiago Bernabéu from São Paulo FC was primarily due to his defensive merits.
Striking purchase
Like Cicinho, Netherlands Under-21 starlet Klaas Jan Huntelaar secured his January move to Ajax from SC Heerenveen well before the turn of the year. He is likely to spearhead a team that may again call upon Romanian midfielder Nicolae Mitea following a long-term injury, although Julien Escudé, Bogdan Lobont and Nigel de Jong have all departed.
Big outlay
Arsenal spent €17.5m to bring 16-year-old striking sensation Theo Walcott to Highbury, considerably more than Liverpool FC parted with to ensure the return of Robbie Fowler to Merseyside. Patrick Müller is also back for a second spell at Olympique Lyonnais, while Maniche and César will be looking to impress with Chelsea FC and FC Internazionale Milano respectively.
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Klaas Jan Huntelaar
Nicolae Mitea
Derek Boerrigter
Jeffrey Sarpong*
Michael Timisela*
Jan Vertonghen*
Murat Yildirim*
* indicates promoted from B list.