Owls Close on Bougherra

Vital Crewe can confirm that Sheffield Wednesday are homing in on the signing of FC Gueugnon’s Madjid Bougherra. The 6’2 centre back impressed hugely whilst on loan at Crewe towards the end of last season resulting in Premiership sides such as Fulham and Birmingham showing an interest in the Algerian international. However, Leeds, Sheffield United and Sheffield Wednesday have always been the favourites to land Bougherra’s signature, and it now appears that the Owls could be set to land their man. Sheffield Wednesday have now agreed to meet the £300k asking price, which FC Gueugnon are powerless to refuse due to their financial difficulties.

The 23-year old has made no secret of his desire to remain in England, though League One football seemingly didn’t appeal. However, Bougherra’s reasons for joining Wednesday will not be decided by the finances alone, as his main motivation is to play first team football at the highest possible level. Bougherra’s impact at Crewe was immense, with Crewe conceding 0.9 goals per game with Bougherra in the side, compared to 2.1 goals per game without him. Wherever Bougherra decides to play next year, there is no doubt that he will be remembered with great affection by those Crewe fans lucky enough to see him play.