The Goat

[nicdic]

Summer Transfer Window 2008

Who: The Goat
When: 13/05/2008
Where: SC

Greetings Spurs fans,

I was grazing around recently, nibbling the grass and whatnot and came into contact with a couple of interesting little piles of info. You can shoot the messenger if you like, but Goat Burgers are pretty untasty.

Mr Ramos met with the players for an end of season run down. The meeting was very frank and while I couldn't hear everything through the double-glazed windows, I was nearly knocked over by an irate Hudd missile on his way out.

Had a lovely moment with Robbo, who patted my head. He said he just loves the white and doesn't want to let down the fans. He hopes to be here next season but the decision is Ramos'. And it hasn't been made yet.

Two bits of news on our skipper.

1. He's off for a big operation. But it's all good as after a short while in a cast he'll be on the meds and fully expects to be a big part of our plans next season.

2. He is still very angry over use of the 'r' word. It ain't happening any time soon.

Now, the big one. Berbatov was heard making arrangements for his return to pre-season training after his summer holidays. Does this mean he's staying? We don't know, but we do know at the minute he plans to still be a Spurs player when pre-season starts...

Until next time..........Be good

Who: The Goat
When: 28/05/2008
Where: SC

A little bit of news that came my way today.

Despite reports of Levy, Commoli and Alexander off on a trip to Florence, they were all definitely very much hard at work this week, at home with no plans for an outing just yet.

Sorry if that disagrees with a few people's claims but this is 100% spot on.

There's not much other news at the minute apart from the obvious that a few of our fringe players may be on their way and I'll try to give you a bit more on that when I can.

Who: The Goat
When: 29/05/2008
Where: SC

Hi all

Just a few snippets that have reached me, most of it you'll have heard before, some not. Anyway, here goes............

Robert Wagner and Stefanie Powers should give you the name of a player we are very hopeful of signing.

As is widely reported, Richard Dunne medical next few days.

Robbo, no takers as yet.

Dimitar Berbatov price set at £30 Million. So far, Not.One.Enquiry.

Dos Santos advanced, but held up due to interest from Inter, probably won't be resolved until they get new manager but who knows?

Again, old news, but I hear that Diego Capel from Seville, is being held up, possibly Ramos compo?

Until next time my friends, adios amigos!

Who: The Goat
When: 03/06/2008
Where: SC

Two bits of news from me

The first one, Veloso, is a name I first heard mentioned a few weeks ago and it has progressed significantly since then. We're definitely in for him but there are a few loose ends that could unravel the whole thing. As I understand it we're going to try to get the deal done but it might be a case of having to let this one get away (through no fault of our own).

The second bit of news whilst not as exciting could prove to be much more valuable to us. Ledley has had his annual "career saving" operation but this one is looking far more promising thanks to some very high-tech medical procedures and Ledley is apparently feeling the best he has for a long time.

I'm very aware we seem to hear this almost every year but this one does seem to be different and the doctors are very confident over it.

Who: The Goat
When: 02/07/2008
Where: SC

We've had this passed on to us. Not our usual source, just someone wanting to keep their anonymity.

Just got a phone call! my mate claims to of met a Blackburn player* at the aura bar in london tonight. He said that word is going round Blackburn players that Bentley will be gone before their pre season resumes on the 7th.

*Name removed to protect the player

Who: The Goat
When: 02/07/2008
Where: SC

It's coming thick and fast today guys.

I have it on very good authority that the club (Levy and Alexander at least) were busy today in "completing negotiations for two signings".

Now, one of these could just be us finalising Gomes (but again, it might not be related to Gomes at all) but at least one of the deals wasn't expected to be completed for a while but "things have moved much faster than we expected".

This info should be spot on and I have no doubts about what we've been told. As of this morning, we were busy completing two deals.

Who: The Goat
When: 17/07/2008
Where: SC

We've just had two separate tip-offs that something is happening right now. We don't know what yet but stay tuned.

Who: The Goat
When: 18/07/2008
Where: SC

I know this is already in the press but just for confirmation, Chimbonda's bid an emotional farewell to WHL this afternoon. No news of the other 3 who are reported to be leaving.

Who: The Goat
When: 18/07/2008
Where: SC

I couldn't post this last night due to what was going to happen today but a bit of info to fill people in.

Ramos and Berbs were both on the plane that brought a few players back (the ones we're looking to ship out to Sunderland, etc that were in Spain) last night. They met with Dantchev and our board late last night. We didn't know what was discussed but after today's statement it's now fairly obvious.

I think someone was saying that Berbs was reportedly back in the country but was then rubbished because of photos of him training. Just wanted to confirm that whoever said it was correct if they meant he was coming back late last night.

In addition to this, Liverpool tapped up Keane via Gerrard but our info was that Keane wanted no part of it. If this is just what Robbie was saying in public whilst secretely wanting a move then we got that one wrong and Keane's not the player we thought he was :-(

Who: The Goat
When: 22/07/2008
Where: SC

Quite an update from me today and a few interesting bits, although some go against the general consensus so we'll have to see.

First of to confirm some news that is already doing the rounds. We are definitely in negoatiations with Villa, Pavlychenko and Arshavin. Personally I thought the Villa talk was just dreaming but it seems that's not the case and we're serious about it.

David Bentley is a bit more unclear but I assume that The Scout would have the inside track on that one. It doesn't look like it's wrapped up yet though from what we heard.

One thing to say here though. We are 100% certain that there is absolutely no need for the club to sell before we can buy. There is no "budget" and Ramos will get what he wants however much it costs us. By the same token, if Ramos doesn't want a player then they're gone, fairly clinical and no room for sentiment.

Keane and Berbatov are both in spain and are both happily training. There's no sulking and Keane is still currently vice captain. Now here I know that there's a rumour that Keane's having a medical at Liverpool tomorrow and we'll double-check if we can whether Keane is still out there but at the minute we understand he is.

Interestingly about Keane, the new corporate brochure was released today and guess who's plastered over the front cover? To add to this even further, there's a full page dedicated to Steed inside. We've been told that the club are certainly not stupid enough to make an error like that when it comes to it's marketing especially given the publicity over Keane. Read into that what you will...

Just as an example:

I'm sure you've all seen the photo of Ledley in Spain and words being bandied about like "knackered" and "muscle atrophy" are very wide of the mark. It was just a dodgy angle and bad light.

We've also seen photos of a lot more athletic looking Hudd out in Spain and we've been reliably informed that Hudd's dropped 12KGs since Ramos took over. Hudd getting offered a new deal was on this condition and Ramos has been really impressed with him. It's not a case of just tying up our young players to long contracts, Ramos rates Hudd highly.

Who: The Goat
When: 22/07/2008
Where: SC

This info's not been confirmed yet but rather than sit on it and wait I thought I'd let everyone know now. Please be aware that things do chance and the timings can easily become extended for a variety of reasons but I thought this was worth taking the risk.

Anyway on with the news:

It seems we've signed Arshavin subject to the medical, etc.

We also agreed a fee for Pavlychenko and that transfer is looking very likely as well.

Bentley is now agreed and is (finally) just awaiting his medical. £12 million and Robbo is apparently the fee.

If everything goes as planned then it looks like the end of Berbs and Keane.

[Update 252] The Goat on Berbatov's likelier-looking departure
Who: The Goat
Date: 30/08
Time: 23:45
Where: SC

Just a small update from me tonight. Things have moved along regarding Berbatov, so much so that his attendance in Holland this weekend is by no means assured. Whether he goes to Holland or not, he may well no longer be with us by the time we play Roma. Enter stage right Pavlyuchenko.

[Update 257] The Goat: Lennon impresses Ramos and Pav interest still strong
Who: The Goat
Date: 01/08/2008
Time: 8:28
Site: SC

I'm informed that there was some confusion regarding my comments regarding Pavlyuchenko, so to clarify, my information is that we are serious about trying to sign him. Apologies if that never came across. Sometimes you can't see the wood for the trees :wink:

Even as we prepare to sign yet more creative, attacking midfielders, some of you might be pleased to hear that Aaron Lennon has not been forgotten. In fact, he's impressed (both in terms of attitude and application) so much over the summer that he's right in contention with the big-money names. Nice one, Azza.

PS: Which is more than can be said for another of the 'Gangsta' fraternity (Chimbonda) now moved on.

[Update 300] the goat on Corluka
Who The Goat
Date 11/08/08
Time 10:25
Site SC

We've just heard this morning that Corluka is a long way from being "off" but it may rumble on all week.

[Update 309] The Goat on Man City
who the goat
date 11/08/08
time 15:50
site SC

City are in serious trouble and they're priorities are concentrating on their ownership problems rather than dealing with the Corluka situation so things are going slowly.

We're being understanding and patient, for now...

[Update 315] The Goat on a mysterious Russian?
Who the Goat
Date 12/08/08
Time 17:05
Site SC

A mysterious stranger was spotted talking to Damien Comolli outside WHL last night. We didn't get a good luck at him but there was a whiff of Vodka in the air.

(It was definitely not Sanchez, it *could* have been Arshavin but that's more speculation than fact)

[Update 333] The Goat on Berbatov
who the Goat
date 15/08/08
time 16:46
site SC

Sorry, we're a bit late with this one as we got it this morning (before the meeting) but I was out until this afternoon so it's probably already common knowledge but I thought I may as well post it to fill in any blanks.

Berbs and his agent had a big meeting this morning with Levy, etc at WHL that went on for a while. Berbs then left after lunch to join the team at The Lodge for training.

The info came with the comment that we should "expect a statement soon if the outcome of the meeting is that Berbs is off".

However, he's now gone to the Lodge for training (as you've all seen on SSN by now) which is quite strange if we had agreed to sell him at the meeting... Purely my speculation (not ITK) but does this suggest he's maybe staying after all?

[Just to clarify as The Goat worded it a bit poorly, the "ITK" here was that Berbs had a meeting this morning with Levy. The interesting bit, but which is purely speculation, is would he have gone to training if it was decided he was going in the meeting - Rob]

January Transfer Window 2009

[Update 54] The Goat on Cudicini
who The Goat
date 21/01/09
time 13:36
site SC

The Goat hears that CC has completed his medical, had his pictures taken and will hopefully conclude after a meeting with 'arry very shortly.

Nice..........

[Update 64] The Goat goes all cryptic
who The Goat
date 27/01/09
time 20:38
site SC

I'll leave this one a little cryptic until we confirm his identity for sure but The Goat just spotted a guy in one of the West Stand boxes who looks like he's in need of a sewing kit.

Edit: Confirmed his identity now but keep guessing if you want :smile:

Summer Transfer Window 2009

[Update 45] The Goat re Spain
Who The Goat
Date 09 June
Time 20:48
Site Spurs Community

A little bit of news tonight mainly confirming what other's have said.

We do have a contingent in Spain, however Levy isn't part of it. That doesn't necessarily mean a deal can't be closed without him there but is probably worth mentioning.

Arry was in Spain and I believe that was to speak to a player personally but as I mentioned last week, Arry's off to Ecuador tomorrow which means it'll be down to those remaining to tie things up.

I don't know who we were there to see so won't speculate.

I've not heard RVN mentioned yet but if we are looking at him, he's certainly not the only one we're over there for... :wink:

[Update 58] The Goat re: Bent
Who: The Goat
Date: 13 June
Time: 00:11
Site: Spurs Community

The Goat hears that Dave Whelan could soon be writing a £10m cheque for the services of Darren Bent shortly.

That'd put Steve Bruce's rather large bugle out of joint........:wink:

[Update 78] The Goat on Comings & Goings
Who: The Goat
Date: 23 June
Time: 12:21
Site: Spurs Community

The Goat is hearing from yet another source that there will soon be a groundhog day departure, possible replacement from the cryptic ramp.

Young still a possible, don't rule out movement in the opposite direction and only one arrival on the cards from Madrid.

[Update 114] The Goat on 'arry watch
Who The Goat
Date 13 July
Time 17:39
Site SC

Apparently 'Arry was seen at Woodbury Park (near Exeter) with Ashley Young and Tim Cahil.

We received the tip-off this morning but as it was from a different source we've tried to check it against other info we had first and have now confirmed that the team is staying there so that at least adds up.

As always, take it with a pinch of salt.

[update 132] The Goat reress room
Who: The Goat
Date: 16 July
Time: 13:01
Site: SC

There's lot going on and lots of things flying around...

We've heard that the press room is being setup for us. Not necessarily a press conference and could just be a routine interview for the website or something but putting that together with some of the other rumours...?

[Update 181] The Goat re:Kyle's, Mid leader and clogs
who The Goat
date 22/07/09
site SC

The Goat hears that the delay with the Kyle's was more to do with procedure than anything else, hopefully all is now sorted. The Goat also hears the midfield leader we've been looking for is all but tied up and one last snippet............Get your clogs out for the lads! :dance:

Busy busy!

[update 189] The Goat re: Holly House
who The Goat
date 23/07/09
site SC

Not from the Goat's usual source, but word reaches me about two medicals at Holly House today. As yet we don't know who though.

*There are no cryptics or hidden meanings in this, or the above statements :roll:

[Update 282] The Goat on plenty.......
who The Goat
date 05/08/09
site SC

A few snippets of info we've heard from a reliable source.

We've received two bids from Inter for Jenas but it doesn't look like he's leaving, meanwhile there is interest in RK from Villa and Sunderland. It seems RK did himself no favours in Asia. The Villa link is especially tantalising as we are still interested in Ashley Young, so much so that MON isn't a happy bunny.

Although it is already out there, The Goat also hears that a fee has been agreed for Bassong and that as of yesterday it was just a matter of agreeing personal terms.

On the same theme, The Goat hears that a fee has also been agreed for Huntelaar and this has been the case for some time. Madrid were happy with the deal but it seems the player wasn't and the Goat speculates that he is waiting to see if anything better comes along with Liverpool and Milan both watching closely. Time will tell on that one.

[Update 287] The Goat re:Young bid
Who The Goat
Date 6th August
Time 15:29
Site SC

A bit of an update on what we posted yesterday regarding AY.

We've made a final "take it or leave it" offer to Villa of £22m+. As we said yesterday, he wants to come to us but MON isn't happy.

[Update 334] The Goat re:Young/Bentley/JJ/Hull/Loans
Who The Goat
Date 18th August
Time 13:21
Site Spurs Community

Nothing ground breaking from me this time just a few things i've heard while munching on the grass down at the Lodge.

Ashley Young still ongoing. A guess on my part is that Jenas and Bentley hold the key. Jenas.Hasn't been told he can go but 100% up to him. Villa and one other in for him, no bids, just calls.

Bentley. Massive bollocking from family and club. Last chance saloon, if he wants to move he has to say so though.

I also hear Crouch starts against Hull with either Defoe or Keane but I always apply salt to this kind of talk.

Nothing earth shattering but the Goat expects a couple of youngsters to go out on loan later this week/early next week until January.

Summer Transfer Window 2010

[Update 9] The Goat; Big signing tomorrow apparently
Who The Goat
Date 10th May
Time 13:21
Site Spurs Community

I have no idea who it is and this is from a new source so please apply the required amount of salt.

Big signing tomorrow, apparently.

On this occasion, what the source didn't say until after the Goat had posted was that 'all I know is that the player was with Tottenham today'. Now if we'd known that the post would have been completely different.

I reckon what we got was some correct information (The player being with or meeting with Spurs) and some incorrect info or a guess from a link in the sources chain (big signing tomorrow)

I feel bad about it but it's done now.

[Update 46] The Goat re:Argentinian based in Italy
Who The Goat
Date 9th June
Site SC

Nothing new but word reaches me that interest has been shown in an Argentinian based in Italy. Ties in with one or two snippets from others.

Oh and no specific link to Spurs but i've heard that a certain toothy Brazilian wants to give the EPL a try.

[Update 93] The Goat re:A few bits
Who The Goat
Date 13th July
Site SC

A few bits reaching us regarding City from a very reliable source. Nothing earth-shattering but backs up a few other bits of info that have been posted.

Richards wants to come but City are messing him around and after agreeing he could leave have now decided he's not for sale. Definitely nothing "done" yet but could just be them playing hard-ball with Levy. Richards definitely wants out of City and at the minute we're his most attractive option.

City really want rid of Bellamy and expected us to snap their hand off for him but we didn't. Again, it might just all be negotiating tactics but they expected him to be gone before their US trip but that obviously hasn't happened now.

Edit: Should add this info came to us this morning and was "fresh" last night.

[Update 108] The Goat re: Bellamy
Who The Goat
Date 20th July
Time 6:52am
Site Spurs Community

Another update.

As I said above, Richards has been told he's going nowhere. This is still the case. It might all change or be City playing games but as of now it isn't happening.

Now onto Bellamy. Whilst City want rid of him, he's not so keen to leave them and thinks he could have a future there. The interesting bit is that he's interested in coming to us (specifically) on loan to prove himself. City don't like that idea and would rather he left permanently so it's a bit up in the air.

[Update 119] The Goat re: Ashley Young
Who The Goat
Date 26th July
Time 19:34
Site Spurs Community

From a respected poster on SC who wishes to remain anonymous

With regard Ashley Young.

We are indeed interested in him (As The Scout has said). Villa are also very interested in some of our players, namely Keane, Bentley and Jenas.

There were two possible deals mentioned, one where all three move to Villa for around £25m with us then getting AY for £19m, the other was Keane + Cash for AY.

[Update 120] The Goat re: deal dominoes
Who The Goat
Date 27th July
Time 09:06
Site Spurs Community

The British Market is ready to boom soon as Milner goes expect things to start happening.

Ashley Young deal depends on the Milner deal and the cash they receive if they get £30m expect the raid on spurs if they only get around £25m expect them only to move for Robbie Keane. Villa are now asking for Bellamy and Ireland in the deal for Milner, so it looks as if Villa hold the key to the market as nobody is willing to sell because they know they can quote Villa silly money hence why we're holding out with the departure lounge and Man City. Villa seem to have a choice out of our three or the City players for a lot cheaper.

Bellamy was offered to Cardiff city for 6 million when we asked we were told 12 million, City are moving goalposts with us.

[Update 162] The Goat
Who The Goat
Date 11/08/2010
Site Spurs Community

Tally-ho!

(Sorry this is cryptic but the information is "sensitive" so the source wanted it vague)

[Update 225] The Goat re:activities
Who: The Goat
When: 26/08/10
Site: Spurs Community

Not from one of our usual sources but we're hearing about an 'unusual' amount of activity at WHL and that a driver was despatched to collect a player for talks. That's all we have right now and we'll update when we receive more.

We've had these before so please take with a pinch of salt.

[Update 226] The Goat re:Suarez
Who: The Goat
When: 26/08/10
Site: Spurs Community

Despite reports today we're still in for Suarez and the player is eager to come. Ajax will sell for the right place...

[Update 243] The Goat on Rossi, Diarra & Keane
Who The Goat
Date 28th August
Site Spurs Community

A few bits for you this morning:
Keane is signing for Villa. Diarra's transfer fee is too expensive.
Giuseppe Rossi wants to come but again, the transfer fee is currently too expensive.

January Transfer Window 2011

[Update 3] The Goat re:Rakitic
Who: The Goat
When: 14/12/10
Where: SC

Just had this from a poster who didn't know where to put it. Confirms the earlier story on sport.co.uk.

Ivan Rakitic is actually a good friend of mine, hes from Möhlin and im from Rheinfelden which are 2 towns next to each other here in switzerland, and as there is a really strong croatian community here we know each other since we're children and our parents are good friends.

I wrote him yesterday to ask if there is any truth in the rumour, he replied:

Tottenham is definetly in the talk, but he doesnt know yet any numbers (wages, sign-on fee etc) so still doesnt know what to do, but he will know in 7-10 days.

[Update 4] The Goat re:Kenwyn Jones
Who: The Goat
When: 14/12/10
Where: SC

This also came to me this morning, as with everything, please take with the appropriate amount of salt:

At the recent mobo awards i was invited by my friend whos sister had organised the after party at the Hilton Liverpool. Anyway got talking to a Mr Kenwyn Jones who openly talked about how in january his representatives had been talking to spurs about a deal which involved robbie keane going the other way with some money or just straight money for Jones. even though he has recently moved to stoke he wanted out of sunderand and wants to play at a higher level club. Now make of it what you like but Kenwyn has defiantly spoke to spurs about a January transfer. Just thought i would share this info with the wider community.

[Update 62] The Goat re:Neville
Who: The Goat
When: 11/1/11
Where: Spurs Community

Nothing new really but it firms up what others have said.

Everton want "silly money or Keane"... Harry is a fan. Thinks he runs games and is a great trainer. Cover for both full-back slots and holding midfield. Maybe he's the 'character' 'Arry's been after? Could go as far as him asking to leave.

[Update 124] The Goat: Rossi
Who The Goat
Date 21st Jan
Time 12:33pm
Site SC

We've bid for Rossi. 100%.

Summer Transfer Window 2011
[Updte 95]The Goat - QPR
When: 08/06/11
Where: SC

The Goat hears that Robbie Keane and Jermaine Jenas are wanted by QPR

[Update 142] The Goat - Cahill
When: 20th June
Where: SC

This is a bit like locking the stable door after the horse has bolted but the story in today's Bolton News has clarified.

The Goat heard last week that we were way down the line to completing a deal for Cahill. The source didn't confirm which one which is why we sat on it until now :smile:

[Update 150] The Goat - Bassong
When: 21 June
Where: SC

[Update 172] the Goat re:Lennon/Downing[/URL]
When: 27/06/11
Where: SC

Word reaches The Goat that Lennon could be on his way, that's already been reported but IF that happens our previous interest in Downing would be rekindled.

POTL's reply is ITK Update 171.

[Update 175] The Goat - Blue & Yellow
When: 27 June
Where: SC

Blue and Yellow. Three words. Lots of attention paid to the word "blue" and lots to the word "yellow" but how about the other word? A good source suspects there could be a pair of signings to welcome, hence the cryptic we've been racking our brains with.

Again the information could identify our source (really, we're not making this up as an excuse!) and I'm pleased it's been shared at all, so apologies again for the need for encrypting it. Still, you've been complaining about being bored.

There are four names I've been told. Two we know about.

One shares his identity with the home of the Swans. The second has been raised by a cretin. The third learned his trade in what sounds like Ms Spears' country. And lastly: Gio's brother? No.

All are being looked at very strongly and I believe we would like to bring in two of them, although even we might not know which two.

In addition to this quartet there's the son of a Hackney hairdresser that we feel could do a job.

And, in apology for all the cryptics above, here's a straight one. If the money's right, Arry's Appy for Azza to go.

[Update 185] The Goat Re: Pedrozo
When: 1st July
Where: SC

[Update 194] The Goat - Cahill, Drogba & Parker[/URL]
When: 5 July
Where: SC

Nothing new but you take what you get.

Cahill's name cropped up again.

Harry would like Parker and Drogba and we're trying to make them happen.

[Update 237] The Goat! Re: Keane and Joe Dolce
Where: Where do you think?
When: 15/07/11

Robbie wants London. QPR were touted earlier but real issues over what they have to spend. Jol to Fulham changed his focus to there, but does Jol want Robbie or JD?

Wages are an issue and Robbie does have a bit of an ego about being the main man on the field and in the dressing room. He may still yet take what he can get in terms of 1st team football which brings Bolton / Wolves et al (MMc really really wants him there to join Doyle - but Doyle may yet be moving on... Arse? Dont do it Doyler!!) into the picture, but he is going to have to accept a wage cut (obviously) to get any move, let alone the one he wants.

and...

I once saw Joe Dolce sing, early doors.

[Update 264] The Goat - Bits n Bobs
Where: SC
When: 23 July

Okay, by popular request, a quick update from one of my better snouts. It’s not exactly what you want to hear but you pays your money (Remember: donate to SC) and you takes your choice (with pinch of salt):

Vucinic is NOT imminent. But still seems closer than Adebayor.
We have heard the same name as ryan but the sweetie seems sour as there doesn't sound like a deal can be done according to our information, although ryan's is an excellent source so I hope he knows something mine doesn't.

I guess we have to hope that more gets done once the valiant victors of the Vodacom Trophy return to Blighty. On that note, the same good source tells me that we’re moving on a new player this week. Apologies for yet another cryptic but it’s very early days and sensitive (one of the earlier big targets – “The home of the Swans” – is about to move elsewhere, by the way). But here’s the new guy:

We have all been looking for THE Man. Now it seems we've found him. And in German, if you please.

And to round it up, a different source, with good links on this particular deal, informs us that we are likely to shortly be receiving some money from Liverpool… via Aston Villa as they spend the Stewart Downing money on 2 or maybe 3 of our guys.

[Update 278] The Goat - Solution to a Cryptic

CRYPTIC CLUE SOLUTION:

We promised to reveal earlier cryptics once it became possible to do so. Well, one player that I understand we enquired about seriously has sadly joined another club.

The player is Santi Cazorla and the cryptic was: "The home of The Swans", explained thus:

The Swans are not infact Swansea City (far too obvious) but Aussie Rules team Sydney Swans, who play the majority of their home games at the Sydney Cricket Ground, or as it's more commonly known: SCG.

Santi Cazorla's full name is Santiago Cazorla Gonzalez.

http://malagacf.com/noticias/malaga-...orla-4841.html

I didn't see anyone guess that but well done if you did. As a reminder, cryptic clues often represent the fact that negotiations are at an early/sensitive stage, so it isn't that surprising that this one didn't come off.

While I'm in a revealing mood, I did see that many of you correctly guessed that "Gio's brother - not" was Leandro. An easier clue to reflect the fact that this link was less sensitive to discuss. Sadly, nothing more to report on that or anything else just now I'm afraid but with Cazorla's transfer to Malaga announced, I felt now was a good time to reveal the link.

[Update 304] The Goat - A Cryptic solution
When: 31 July
Where: SC

I once saw Joe Dolce sing, early doors.

CRYPTIC CLUE SOLUTION:

Some of you did get the solution to this right.

I once = one = Juan
Joe Dolce song 'shaddup you face' contains the line "whats a matta you" = Mata

Early Doors was an indication that interest was at an early stage.

[Update 423] The Goat - Adebayor
When: 24/08/2011
Where: SC

This is already pretty obvious but "Adebayor medical today. Fact."

[Update 432] The Goat - Parker
When: 27 Aug
Where: SC

The Goat hears that a deal for Parker was agreed yesterday