Bolton Wanderers finally announced the signing of attacking midfielder Erhun Oztumer this morning. The ‘Turkish Messi’ (from Greenwich remember, I much prefer the Wizard of Oz) has signed a two-year deal at the Macron.
The deal seemed to be largely done yesterday, but the formalities, including the medical meant the acquisition wasn’t announced until 10.45am. Still, what’s a day at this stage of the summer? He joins Jason Lowe as the second summer signing. Last season, bar loans made permanent, we hadn’t signed anyone yet. Two years ago, we’d just got a manager in.
“My journey’s been from non-league all the way to the Championship. Hard work pays off. I’m delighted to be here,” he told the club website. When asked what fans would expect, his response was: “Quick play. One or two-touch. Exciting football, and hopefully, another 40-yarder at the Macron,”making reference to the goal he scored for Walsall against us two seasons ago.
He has been vital to Walsall over the last couple of seasons, and while this will be his first crack at the Championship, he has his peak years yet to come and should be able to step up in some capacity. A genuinely exciting signing, and a proper playmaker behind the striker, which we haven’t really had for a good while.
Absolutely top class signing-I honestly can’t wait to see Erhun producing his magic at the macron !
Welcome to the club .. great news!!👍— Chris McKeown (@TheChrisMcKeown) June 13, 2018
https://twitter.com/OWLowery/status/1006850709038526467
Gutted he has left us but Ozzy deserves his chance in the Championship
— Snowey Snow (@Snoweysnow) June 13, 2018
Erhun Oztumer’s 2017-18 @SkyBetLeagueOne #WalsallFC record:
4️⃣5️⃣ apps
4️⃣1️⃣ starts
1️⃣5️⃣ goals
7️⃣ assistsInvolved in 22 of the #Saddlers 53 league goals last season (41.5%).
The Turkish Messi joins #Bolton 🇹🇷🖋👏🏻
Good signing!#Trotters #BWFC pic.twitter.com/G1uydh9nBg
— Goodbrand Stats (@StatsChristian) June 13, 2018