Big news for the B team: Marco Ruben is off to England to play for Wigan Athletic. He moves to a team in 14th place in the Premier League, only 3 points above the drop zone and Jozy Altidore's Hull City. Marca had been discussing this rumor for a few days. If we got the reported figure of 5 million pounds, which apparently is what we paid to bring him over from River Plate (Argentina) in 2008, I think the transaction was a success. We can't expect all of our signings to turn into Luis Antonio Valencia, so I'm not sure why we should hold out for more.
Ruben's progress here was blocked by Rossi, Nilmar, Llorente, and Altidore (if he returns). Even if one striker is sold, beyond Jony Pereira's recent departure, Joan Tomas and/or Jefferson Montero deserve a look with the A team. Looks like we are doing business this year and cashing in on some of our assets. Sad to see Ruben go, as he does have a bright future (capped by Argentina and scored on his debut), but he's not irreplaceable. The B team will struggle a bit more, however, but they just need to stay up.
Though not confirmed, Sebastian Eguren also looks to be on his way. Goal.com suggests that Lazio is interested, which makes sense because we played them in the Europa League. A 6-month loan deal with a 5 million Euro buyout clause sounds like a good deal for all sides. I'd love to have the money right now, but there's no reason to think that Eguren won't fit the tradition of Serie A destroyers (Gattuso, Vieira, etc.). We will confirm once it's official.
On a related note, FT Salamanca 2-4 Villarreal B. All 6 goals in the second half; talk about action. Salamanca took the lead early, then Matilla had a penalty saved, but Jefferson Montero tied the score soon after. Good to see him stepping up in Ruben's absence. Goals from Gerard Bordas and Joan Oriol sealed the result; Salamanca pulled one back, but Bordas got his brace in stoppage time. What a team! Up to 4th place, 1 point out of the promotion spots.