Transfer news
GOOD BYE ARBELOA
29 Jan 2007
Shocking news for Depor fans!. Deportivo has transferred Alvaro Arbeloa to Liverpool. Coach Joaqu?n Caparr??s announced the news after today's training session. The amount of the operation hasn't been confirmed yet. The ex-Real Madrid defender has been a stalwart in the Deportivo defense this season and was one of the best players transferred during summer market, now his future is in England and will link up with the 'Spanish army' of Rafa Ben?tez.
What isn't a surprise is the financial situation of Deportivo. The club is owing money to the players and also a delayed payment to Alav?©s for the transfer of Bodipo. That's why Lendoiro has been hurried with this negotiation.
The exact words of Caparr??s when he announced the operation were: "Arbeloa is going to Liverpool. I am pleased for him, a player of professionalism deserves something like this." The Sevillan coach also said that he understands the decision of the Galician club: "From my positon, you have to sell your best players in order to grow up."
Arbeloa came during the summer transfer windown after Depor paid €1.3 million for him. He participated as starter in the 20 games, and always gave a sensation of security in the backline. Although he was just a rookie, the Salamanca-born central defender demonstrated that he can play with veterans like Lopo and Andrade, he even kept Lopo on the bench during the last four liga encounters. Arbeloa also showed his multifunctional skills when Caparr??s used him as make-shift right back during some matches.
His skills brought the attention of bigger clubs are was praised when newspaper Marca named Arbeloa as part of its starting eleven during the first round of the La Liga Season. It was rumoured that Real Madrid wanted him to return, but in the end it was Rafa Ben?tez who bought him in order to increase the number of soldiers in his 'Spanish army'. The amount of the transfer hasn't been revealed, but what we know is that Depor is obligated to grant half of the profit to Real Madrid (the difference with the €1.3 million paid in the first transfer)
Arbeloa is also one of the most loved players for the fans. He was always open and ready to answer any questions asked to him through his personal website, a rare case these days. Deportivo-la-coruna-com even had the privilege to talk with him in a personal interview conducted by one of its editors. For that reason, we can only say to Arbeloa: thank you very much and Good luck!