Barcelona Signs Maxwell, Surprises Everyone

Barcelona have completed a signing that has taken everyone by surprise, albeit a pleasant one.

In this age of Perez-esque prices, Barcelona have pulled off a major coup by signing proven Inter left wingback Maxwell for a measly price of just 4 million euros.

With Deportivo president Lendoiro demanding an arm and a leg for Filipe Luis, it was inevitable that Barcelona would be linked with several other players for the left fullback position. Andre Santos and Monreal were two of the players whose names were thrown into the ring, while Filipe himself kept pushing for a transfer.

At one point, a deal for Filipe looked so certain that he was not included in Deportivo's preseason group photo.

However, it seems that Barcelona have finally lost patience with Deportivo's demands. This move comes as a pleasant surprise. Not only because it was completely unexpected, but also because:

a. Maxwell is an experienced player who fits well into Barcelona's style of play perfectly.

b. The price. At a cost of 4 million euros, Barcelona have managed to procure a fine left back, who can act as cover and as a starter. This is less than half the price of Filipe which Barcelona were willing to pay.

c. Maxwell will be eager to prove himself after being sidelined for long spells at Inter.

d. Versatility. He can play at left back, left wingback, left mid and defensive mid.

Naturally, there are some pitfalls to be considered, like his age and injury proneness, but none of that can take away the fact that he will also perfectly integrate into Barcelona's hold and pass the ball system, having previously played at Ajax which has a similar system.

All credit, thus, to the Barcelona board, for pulling off a brilliant move in all respects. It will be interesting to see Maxwell plying his trade at the Camp Nou next season

This article is also published on http://allthingsfcb.blogspot.com