Coventry’s dream transfer window as Gyokeres funds development

Coventry City are officially open for business in the summer transfer window with three, technically four, new signings over the line in what is an important period in the club’s evolution.

Returning Luis Binks became the club’s second official signing of the closed season this week, following the arrival of right winger Raphael Borges Rodrigues last month and late January signing winger Ephron Mason-Clark. And more are expected before the pre-season begins on July 1.

Excitement levels went up a few notches when Jack Rudoni was unveiled as a near £5million capture from Huddersfield Town in a clear statement of intent from Doug King and the club. The Sky Blues do not need the major surgery or other huge personnel change they experienced this time last year, but Mark Robins is determined to add to and strengthen the foundations of a quality squad that is already in their place – the purpose of adding a splash. quality to take the team to the next level and have the wherewithal to make a sustained push for promotion.

They have until 23:00 on August 30 to complete offers.

So what would make a perfect summer window for the Robins and the Sky Blues? CoventryLive takes a look.

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Exceptional cash house

Last summer’s rebuilding process was largely funded by Viktor Gyokeres’ big sales, and Gustavo Hamer and City must avoid doing the same again. It’s okay to cash in every now and then, but it just doesn’t help improve a team if you keep selling your best players.

It’s not clear how much money the Robins have to spend this time around, but a significant increase in cash from the sell-on clause in Gyokeres’ contract would go a long way in funding further additions. And there has been some good news this week, with Arsenal reported to be “very close” to securing the services of the Swedish star.

The O’Hare upgrade and the Sheaf statement of intent

If we’re talking ideal scenarios, then Callum O’Hare would have signed a new contract and given City at least another year. It’s looking increasingly unlikely, of course, and the reality is that O’Hare will leave on a free at the end of this month, leaving head of recruitment Dean Austin needing to produce an exciting player to take place and compete with Kasey Palmer.

And whoever gets in has to be as good, if not better, than O’Hare. That has to be a priority. Rudoni’s arrival has sparked much debate as to whether he is the man to fill O’Hare’s attacking boots. Capable of playing eight or further in a ten, we wait to see where the Robins see the versatile 23-year-old, but his arrival is certainly a good start to filling that void.

Equally important is getting hold of influential midfielder Ben Sheaf. Favorite to be the club’s new captain, the former Arsenal prospect is seen as a key man in the squad. He has ambitions to return to the Premier League and has been linked with interest from several top clubs.

He has two years left on his current deal, but why not make a statement of intent and offer him a new and improved deal?

Cheer up as the old guard moves on

City have a handful of signings who appear to be at a crossroads in their Sky Blues careers; players who have generally slipped away and may well seek more regular football elsewhere. This could be a win-win moment for striker Matty Godden and goalkeeper Ben Wilson, who could be reinvigorated by a move, while their wages can be used elsewhere on young, hungry replacements.

The team could back up with a really talented goaltender to provide competition for Brad Collins; someone in the mold of Keiren Westwood when he first joined the club – an outstanding and consistent performer, ready for the Prem.

A young striker and someone different from the current big man duo of Haji Wright and Ellis Simms would also be a welcome addition to City’s forward options.

And while a move would be unpopular with fans, Jake Bidwell could find himself making way for a more attacking full-back option to compete with Jay Dasilva, although the latter must step up after a first regardless season on CBS. Arena.

The only other signed player who might have question marks is Jamie Allen. Mark Robins, however, has already said he is looking forward to seeing him back at his best next season after a campaign riddled with illness and injury. And from a team perspective, the energetic and versatile midfielder is the perfect club man who can fill a variety of roles. The question is, will the 29-year-old settle for a small role or not be a guaranteed regular starter?

Numbers up

Whatever happens, an absolute priority must be to increase the number of squads to avoid being caught short, as City were at the end of the season, when injuries and suspensions intervened amid a busy schedule caused by the club’s success this season. competition. FA Cup.

It’s a real balancing act, of course, and the Robins won’t want a top-heavy squad that could lead to restlessness and unhappiness from players fighting for game time, but he needs to have enough quality to ensure that you don’t have to make up the bench with two or three developmental teenagers, as was often the case last season.

Reinforced team

The best case scenario for the Sky Blues is to come out of the window in a stronger position; with strength in depth throughout the team. That will certainly be the aim of the club.

A couple of key additions could be enough to keep the club going, with a dynamic midfielder in the form of Gus Hamer and an exciting player to replace O’Hare seen as vital areas to strengthen.

A right-back is also needed to compete with and provide cover for Milan van Ewijk, and some vital experience and leadership would not be missed following the departures of Liam Kelly and Kyle Mcfadzean.

If City can do business early, so much the better. Having a pre-season with most of his squad in place would be a boost for the Robins. Also, avoid any panic buying on the day of the deadline.

Which positions do you think are priority to strengthen? Tell us in the comments section HERE.