Today, Walsall announced the permanent signing of defender Rollin Menayese from Mansfield Town.
Since he joined on loan, he has impressed, leaving many wondering why he was allowed to leave on loan, and whether he would be attainable on a long term contract.
Although one part of that is unanswered, the second part has been, and it has been extremely well received by the Saddlers faithful.
A big statement by Leigh Pomlett
In recent weeks, Leigh Pomlett had said that he would not be spending any money on transfer fees, however this has already been proven a little white lie.
Signing a player who has been a fan favourite is a great bit of business by the club, and makes a real statement.
Although the fee was undisclosed, it shows that Leigh Pomlett has managed to clubs finances well, and is using it wisely.
Menayese seems to have found a home at Walsall, and bringing him in on a lengthy contract can only mean he will thrive as he settles in further.
Timing has been key
Getting a deal like this early in the transfer window is always good to see, especially by a club that usually wait until late in the January window.
Menayese only turned 24 last month, and has signed a two-and-a-half year deal, keeping him for some of his key developmental years.
Defenders can play well into their 30s, and having Menayese at this stage is very good as he continues to improve.
A home, and some consistency
The Saddlers are Menayese sixth club of his career, that has seen him feature for Bristol Rovers, Swindon Town and Grimsby.
Despite the mixture of clubs, Menayese has only 80 EFL League appearances, and on top of this, Walsall are the side he has played for the most, except for Bristol Rovers.
He has made 25 appearances for Walsall, and with the run of games ahead where Months is suspended, and his standing within the team, he will no doubt surpass his season best of 35 appearances.
A good start
Walsall fans will see this as a very good start to the window, but that it is just that, a start.
Otis Khan will be next on the agenda, as well as a striker and a full-back.
If this is a statement signing, then Walsall are in for a good January. There is still a long way to go, and work to be done, but this is a great way to start the month.
Featured Image – Walsall FC
