Yanks Soccer

Brad Guzan’s failed $4 million transfer last year was thought to be the end of interest in him by Aston Villa.  However, as we neared the transfer season, Villa showed renewed interest in Guzan.  This interest brings us to today, when Guzan’s transfer has been confirmed by sources in the league.  

Guzan will still have to get a work permit, but he has four more appearances under his belt now, which should be enough to see his application accepted.  

Guzan leaves on a $1.5 million transfer this time, because his contract with the league is up on January 1st, 2009.  Guzan could have left for free this winter and Chivas wanted a transfer fee from him.  Guzan, at 23 joins Brad Friedel and Tim Howard as American keepers in the Premiership.  

Guzan had interest from teams such as Celtic, Arsenal, Auxerre, and more, but he visited Villa last winter and set his heart on joining the club.  

Guzan’s move is a necessity for all parties involved.  Guzan wanted to play for Villa, MLS and Chivas get a transfer fee and avoided him leaving for free, and Villa get a keeper.  A good move for Guzan, and Villa will be happy that they’ve gotten the keeper they needed.  The writing was on the wall, we all knew he was going to leave and I’m happy that he is moving on to bigger and better challenges.

What do you think of the transfer?  Is Villa the right club?  Your thoughts below.