Chasing the ginger pound

In between warning its' readers not to leave their homes for fear of being gunned down by one of the millions of AK47-toting, hoody wearing, Polish illegal immigrants who rule our streets, yesterday's Daily Mail found time to mention that the Reading had accepted a £4million bid from Stoke for the mighty Dave Kitson.

The fee has subsequently risen to £5million, if you believe the BBC and Sky Sports, and although neither club has yet to confirm the transfer, it seems likely that it will be going ahead in the near future, meaning United benefit from sell-on clause money to the tune of £300k-ish (based on the £2million initial fee which is being banded around).

Obviously this money would be a great fillip to the clubs finances, and it will be an interesting test of the ‘new’ board’s intentions. They’ve talked the talk this summer about the need to not overspend in the coming season, and Gautrey, Rolls, and co have been happy to get a few little digs at Lee Power and his spend first, think later policy to finances, so lets hope they do not do the same now we are set to get this unexpected windfall.

Based on what they’ve been saying in the press, Gary Brabin should still have room in his budget to bring in the 2/3 players we need to complete the squad and have a good go at promotion this season, meaning any Kitson money could be put towards rent or stemming our ongoing losses. I trust they won’t spend big on some striker or other in order to appease the element our fanbase who will undoubtedly call for all the cash to go to the manager.

Meanwhile, the search for the new Kitson continues, with the Brabinator having discarded Ramon Calliste and defender Matt Halliday. As I said in my City report, while both look to be reasonable players, I feel we can, and hopefully will, do better.