Motta can be a Pompey hit
Harry Redknapp was today urged: Sign Thiago Motta at all costs.
That's the verdict of Spanish football expert Guillem Balague, who is convinced triallist Motta can be a Premier League hit.
The former Barcelona midfielder yesterday donned a Blues shirt for the first time in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Sunderland.
The Brazilian played the entire 90 minutes as Harry Redknapp's side ran out 1-0 winners through a late Hermann Hreidarsson header.
He now has the remainder of the week to clinch a permanent deal, with current club Athletico Madrid willing to let him leave.
Reported wage demands of 60,000 a week will be a stumbling block, while an injury dogged last few years have raised doubts over his fitness.
Yet Balague, who is the voice of Spanish football on Sky and has followed Motta's career closely as a result, has no such qualms. And he is convinced the 25-year-old can make a massive impact in the English top flight.
He said: 'Motta is somebody Bobby Robson used to love and wanted to sign when he was in charge of Newcastle.
'He's a quality player who came through the ranks at Barca and is someone who can be a big player for any team in the world, no matter what level.
'Motta is left-footed, he's tall, he's powerful, he scores goals.
'It's just that he has been very unlucky with injuries throughout his career.
'He reminds me of Gilberto Silva, who used to be at Arsenal.
'He can destroy and attack, is a wonderful passer and clever as well.
'In truth, he is a little bit short fused because he's very committed but he has lots of quality.
'I know he has always been attracted to English football, he's certainly physical enough for the Premier League.
'The fact he is having a trial at Portsmouth shows how much he wants to come. Players from La Liga never go on trial.
'I think Athletico would let him go but I know he wants 60,000 a week, which could be a problem.
'Unfortunately, the injuries mean he's not the player he was but Harry is very aware of what has happened to him over the years and I'm sure can work that magic he always does.
'He just needs a run of games and he will show people his quality.'
It was Balague who broke the news of Pompey's interest in the central midfielder earlier this week on his website www.guillembalague.com
Motta only made the switch to Athletico last summer but knee injuries restricted him to just eight appearances.
Previously, he made more than 100 appearances for Barcelona, and has also picked up nine caps for Brazil.
The 25-year-old, who holds an Italian passport, underwent knee surgery in America in February.
Motta is now looking to kick-start his career.
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Weather for Portsmouth
Thursday 24 May 2012
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