Monday, July 14, 2008

Guzan to Aston Villa in

Soccer By Ives reported over the weekend that Chivas USA and American International goalkeeper Brad Guzan is headed to Aston Villa of the English Premier League for a $1.5 million transfer fee.

Guzan had a previous tranfer move blocked in the January transfer window due to his inability to secure a work permit. But after appearing in five of the U.S. National Team's last eight games, including World Cup qualifying, Guzan will likely get his work permit this time around. Guzan joins a long list of American goalkeepers in the Premiership, including Tim Howard (Everton) and Brad Friedel (Blackburn--for now, but a transfer is possible). Last year, Kasey Keller played for Fulham and Marcus Hahnemann is with the now relegated Reading. Guzan is Villa manager Martin O'Neill's first goalkeeper signing and fills an important void at Villa Park.

While a work permit still remains the biggest hurdle, Aston Villa's leadership is hopeful.

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