Chesterfield have sealed the signature of Russian central defender
Vladimir Granat from Dynamo Moskva. In what has been a furious week of transfers
with the recent arrival of South Korean international Koo Ja Cheol, the signing
of Granat would come as a surprise as they aren’t often associated with heavy
transfer activity.
Granat, 26 is seen as the direct replacement for the departed Douglao
and will slot in alongside Marcos Rojo and fellow new signing Mikel San Jose. Journeyman Vladimir Granat is considered one
of the most consistent central defenders in the Russian league and has had
previous experience in England having played for Aston Villa, Nottingham Forest
and Swansea City.
The arrival of Granat sees fan favourite Brazilian defender Douglao
depart to the Russian club. This
comes after Douglao publically declared that he wanted a change of
scenery and Chesterfield were quick to find possible targets to replace the big
Brazilian centre half.
Manager Glory Days expressed his delight in sealing Granat’s move:
“There was no question we were looking for a replacement for Douglao but it’s rare when you are able to grab your top transfer target. Unfortunately Douglao wanted to move on but we have done our best to fill the void that he will leave. He’s a solid central defender and has a great pedigree from the Russian League.”
Granat commented on his move to the Spireites:
“I am excited to be here, I have heard great things about Chesterfield and although they have just moved up from Division
Four, they are building something here. When I was last in England, I played a bit-part role in my team however manager Glory Days has assured me that I was going to be a big part of the team setup and I would have an opportunity to be a central part of the team”
Unfortunately as a result, Douglao who has played 100 games at
Chesterfield in five seasons and was known for his uncompromising defending and
his wonderful long range goals departs for Russia.
Manager Glory Days spoke on the
big Brazilian’s departure:
“We thank Douglao for his professionalism and his leadership which has put our younger lads in good stead, Everyone at the club looked up to Douglao so it understandably sad to lose such a big figure at the club.”
Granat is expected to start in Douglao’s old position against Ipswich
Town in front of the Spireite fans.
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