Former NUFC duo Hatem Ben Arfa and Vurnon Anita secured new clubs late in the transfer window last week, with the Frenchman securing a move to Rennes and the Dutchman signing for Eredivisie side Willem II on a season-long loan.
Starting with Ben Arfa, the mercurial talent was released by PSG at the end of last season after being completely axed from Unai Emery’s squad, making him available to be signed on a free this summer.
There was alleged interest from the likes of West Ham and Leicester, however he’s ended up remaining in France, signing a two-year-deal with Ligue 1 side Stade Rennais.
Official | Rennes announce the signing of Hatem Ben Arfa on a 2-year deal. pic.twitter.com/zAV2dctHjq
— Get French Football News (@GFFN) September 2, 2018
Then to Anita – a player who’s left Leeds United after just one year at the club. He’s now returned to Holland, having struggled to nail down a place in their first-team under three separate managers.
New boss Marcelo Bielsa informed Anita that he was not part of his plans this summer, seeing him secure a move back to his native country at the end of last week.
Willem II huurt Vurnon Anita tot einde seizoen van @LUFC
??? / https://t.co/hS9h0Qi6Zn#Anita pic.twitter.com/cKph4Ixu21
— Willem II (@WillemII) August 31, 2018
Good luck to them both. Two players who served us well – although it’s fair to say their careers have went down hill considerably since leaving.
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I’d have taken both back. Anita is better RB cover than Manquillo (though I’d rather see Sterry get a chance to break through).
Benny would be perfect for that no.10 creative role. He wouldn’t graft, which is why it would never have been considered by Rafa – but I think he could have done us a job.
Sharpy17(Quote)