Transfer Grades: Illarramendi, Denisov, Wanyama, Alcaraz and Callejon

The transfer window has been flung open and this summer could be spectacular for player movement given the number of high profile clubs that have changed manager or who are coming off perceived down seasons. Over this summer, I will be explaining and analysing the major moves around and giving each one of them a grade.

Asier Illarramendi – Real Sociedad to Real Madrid (£33m)

What’s the deal? Real Madrid swoop to sign the new Xabi Alonso from a youthful and talented Sociedad unit.

Is the price right? This is a fair old chunk but he’s worth every single penny. Illarramendi is one of the most talented young players in the the world.

Why sign him? Xabi Alonso is 31 and only has one year left on his contract so Illarramendi is his replacement. Quite possibly for this season if the club sell Alonso, but certainly for the future. He’s uncannily like Alonso with his passing range and style and positional intelligence.

Why sell him? Release clause activated.

Will it work? Yes. He’s been signed for a specific job with no competition once Alonso is gone and has an arsenal of weapons around him to pass to and the boundless energy of Sami Khedira alongside him.

Grade: A+ I’m a huge fan of Illarramendi and Real is a great fit for him. They’ve signed another young Spanish talent with a clear plan in mind and he gets to be a star at a big club.