Ivan Katalinic's 'tache

This was K,Billy's cryptic comment before Clasie signed, on the main HCDAJFU thread. I wonder if he was alluding to Elia amongst the potential signings? I assumed he meant Vlaar, as his potential signing would be negatively received by most, but maybe it's Elia? FWIW, I think he'd be a good addition particular if he gets (the rest of) a good pre season with us as it must be hard to join midway through a season on a temporary deal and hit the ground running. There will be plenty of games if we make it to the Europa League group stage and he could be a good one to have around, with the ability to do something a little bit different.

Down: Bournemouth, Villa and Norwich Up: Boro, Derby and Sheff Weds

What this thread needs is k,billy to pop along with a 'done deal' or smiley...

Stuart Mathieson, also a Manchester Evening News reporter.

Rob Dawson, Manchester Evening News reporter...

Who do you prefer to work with Cortese or Rogers?

Er, thought I did say if the price is right? Obviously if it ain't, he has to put up & shut up until we get an acceptable bid. But once one us received, a quick move is best so replacements get the maximum time to gel with the group & have a proper pre season with us.

He's not going to be staying so if the price is right, get him out. Been a brilliant player for us but the time has come for both parties to move on.

Good. I was looking forward to seeing what Koeman could do with Gaston over the course of last season and I still think he could've been a better option than either Elia or Djuricic who we brought in loan ourselves. Hopefully we will benefit from a fully rested player and Ronald can find a way of consistently getting the best out of him. Could provide good competition for Dusan and lessen the burden to create on him too.

Disappointing but I'm sure the club did all they could to get it done. Interestingly, I wonder if it would've all panned differently without the clauses in place, i.e. would we have looked to get something sorted out earlier at the market rate in January even? Academic now. I look forward to seeing who we bring in now (I'm hoping there will be someone) and a new hero for our fans. I'm also just glad Twitter didn't exist when Kevin Keegan disappeared off to Newcastle right before the season started, back in 1982. Can you imagine the meltdown...

Will be interesting now to see how we start off at the back this coming season. Only Jose remains with Clyne gone, Toby virtually gone and Bertrand & Forster injured. Throw in we may lose one half of the Morgan/Wanyama shield and Ronald may need to work some magic again. At least it's never dull...

Sven Claes says it's a done deal to Spuds...

Alternatively... http://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/589586/Agent-denies-Tottenham-agreement-Chelsea-Southampton-target-Alderweireld-transfer-gossip

How can you be so sure? The rest of the world seems to think he's been in Enfield?

To be fair, I didn't think we stood a chance of a defender who's played in the Champions League final the season before...

That's true but I've got a bit bored of the whole Toby thing & I'm keen to explore who else is out there & may be achievable.

Any thoughts on who we could go for if, as the London based press suspect, Toby chooses to go to Spuds. Bruno Martins Indi? Dragovic? Who do you think would complement Jose & fit into our strong team ethos?

Two signings in one day - bravo! I hope the coaching staff don't get confused by the similar names...

Cuco Martina? That's not how you spell Toby Alderweireld! Whilst not the defensive signing we were hoping for, I hope the lad does well enough to silence the doubters. Can only really see him as a backup but hoping he proves to be better than that.

Thought the Belgian journalist who broke the story of Toby joining us last year said no medicals done or planned, last night? Unless we are entering a new era of clandestine medicals? Funny if the one taking the medical was actually the other chap Spurs are said to want from AM?

I hope Toby isn't treating Ron like a wannabe WAG. Texting him he wants to be with him then disappearing off with someone else...

I believe Atletico sent the release clause notification & cash by carrier pigeon. 'Speckled Jim' was last seen flying over Flanders...

I thought that was Liverpool? Oh, I can't keep up any more...

Sweetener to drop our Toby clause case? Can't see Spurs being that enamoured with us currently, otherwise.

Kat won't be happy if he's attending these on work time... http://www.tilllate.es/en/agenda/madrid/2015-07-07