He’ll improve your lot no doubt. But feck me, what a fee. I think there are probably 10 better CBs playing in Europe attainable for half that price.
I hope all the posters criticizing the VVD fee are behaving the same way right now.
You will know as well as anyone that VVD has improved your team by more than just his personal ability? Liverpool are a MUCH better team because (1) he's good (2) he organises the defence and (3) it gives your team (FBs as well as forwards) a more stable footing to attack from.
Some players (usually CHs, CMs or a personable 'leader') do that to a team... Liverpool aren't just better by the level of VVDs defending in the same way United weren't just better by the level of Robson or Keane. They play well, they lead, they organise, they inspire.
There's no guarantee that Maguire will do that but I honestly think he will be a very good addition and (along with Wan Bissaka) gives us a much better defence (that can't be hard?!) and allow other players to focus on attacks, assists, goals.
Is he worth £80m? No idea. (I didn't think VVD was worth £75m... I was wrong)
Would I have paid it if it was my decision? Yes... ability, age, PL experience, international experience, British (no worries about fitting in/lifestyle). Plus Leicester had a lot of the cards and the market has risen dramatically.
I think we can definitely get third and hopefully be more of a challenge to the top two. We get a top DM, we're very close (though CF/goals will depend on how Rashford, Martial, Greenwood develop/kick on and that's unknown yet).
(PS. Are there ten better defenders for half the fee? Not a chance ... and you know it?
, you little tinker you)
(Watch the Zagadou game v Bayern. Yowsers!!)