Source: Eurosport
Early bird Hughes targets more deals
Manchester City manager Mark Hughes is keen to complete some more early summer transfer business following the ¦pound;12million arrival of Gareth Barry from Aston Villa.[LNB] The 28-year-old England international has signed a five-year contract at Eastlands having completed a successful medical. A target for Liverpool last summer, Barry leaves Villa after 12 years and more than 400 matches.[LNB] Hughes said: "I was looking to get a number of deals done as soon as possible and we have had a great start with Gareth joining us."[LNB] He added: "I hope we can conclude some more so that when we come back for pre-season training we have everybody fit and well and set for a successful campaign."[LNB] Barry said he joined City because their ambition matched his own. [LNB] Currently with the England squad preparing for a World Cup qualifier in Kazakhstan on Saturday, he told City's official website: "I'm delighted to be joining City.[LNB] "It didn't take much persuasion from Mark Hughes, they are heading in the direction I want to go. There is great potential here, and I'm sure there will be a few more additions to the squad this summer."[LNB] Hughes added: "Gareth is widely acknowledged as one of the top midfielders in the Premier League and that is a recommendation in itself.[LNB] "With Gareth we get the experience of someone who has played week-in, week-out in the hardest league in the world. [LNB] "He plays at a level that has an impact on the game and we are thrilled he is joining us."
