Sibdane

Looks like this one is all but done. I'm happy with it, and I'm hoping that it's a loan-to-buy option.

For 1.5 or 3mil or even 5mil, he's a goer. Like StevO said above, he's in the same level as Barkley, Mirallas, and McGeady when it comes to not showing up sometimes; but on his day he is a beast!

Yeah, it's interesting to note that Klinsmann was coach of Munich during his time there, and they always had this behind-the-scenes hatred for each other, or at least that's what it seems like.

I have to agree with Romey regarding the squad having the same amount of depth as last year; however, the squad is deeper compared to three seasons ago. I still think we need another winger(left-footed) and a younger CB to cover Distin with the intentions of eventually taking over for him. Obviously, another striker is preferable to challenge Lukaku, but I feel that way because of the question marks hanging over Kone's head. I also wouldn't mind acquiring another central attacking playmaker to challenge Barkley. I feel Pienaar could do a job there, but I have a feeling he's not going to get that opportunity very often.

He considers himself an Evertonian. It's even in his twitter bio. The man loved this club. As for calling it soccer, that's a term the English came up with, so the root of that "problem" started with you lot.

His statement for those interested: “After careful deliberation and many conversations with those closest to me, I have decided that this will be my last year as a professional soccer player,” said Donovan in a statement. “It has been more than anything I could have dreamed of to represent the LA Galaxy, the San Jose Earthquakes, Everton, U.S. Soccer and Major League Soccer throughout my career. There are so many people I want to thank who have inspired me, guided me and helped me on this incredible journey. “I simply could not have accomplished what I did during my playing career without an overwhelming amount of support from my family, my friends and many others. I plan to express my gratitude to everyone in a more detailed manner at a later date; however, for now, I want to single out the fans. You are the lifeblood of this sport and, without you, none of us would be fortunate to call ourselves professional soccer players in MLS.”

I hate to see him retiring. I feel he still had a lot left to offer, but it's his life to do with what he wants. Wish him well!

I'll take his pace on the left. We still need some cover on the left side... actually we need a solid left winger. He's not my first choice, but if no one else is available I'd take him.

Happy to see this go through. We have some exciting potential talent for the future.

I'm a fan. Great kit.

I Always had high hopes for him. I just hope he doesn't make an impact for Sunderland against us.

...And the whole time we were crying out for Gueye to be given a chance there!

Well, I'm very sad this isn't real.

Maybe, but egos will clash.

Yeah, he's a huge tool. That said, I can't wait until there's a war of words between him and Jose.

I'd have him as back up for Stones.

I'd be very shocked to see him go. This is a non-story to me.

Happy Birthday!

I can't stop thinking about this deal. So excited for the season to start. I feel if we can get a LW, plus another CB, and start playing Pienaar behind the striker, we'll have a great squad to work with.

Pumped beyond words right now... I feel so relieved!!!!

Loads of potential from what I've read about him. It's hard to imagine him being "offered" to us though.

Feeling very optimistic about this right now...

Howard is a champ. I'm glad to see that he's not looking at MLS to retire. I'll be sad to see him retire when it finally does happen.

We received a good fee for him, but I really feel he fit us well. I have no idea what he is doing now though, so maybe I have no idea what I'm saying.

Definitely a bit of both. There haven't been too many Americans who have left and succeeded. It's a curse. They're heroes in MLS, so that's where the comfort factor comes in.