Meltdown (N.H)

16

"Let's finish the transfer period in the best way, and then we will have time to talk everything out. Let's forget about everything for the next three weeks." I suggested.

"I think that will be the best idea. We won't argue until the transfer period ends, at least." He agreed.

"Deal." I said, and extended my arm to shake hands.

We both shook hands.

"Can I tell you about a midfielder I found then?" He asked.

"Of course. I found a few players too, but you start." I said.

"Okay. The thing is he plays for Arsenal, and he will most likely cost a lot of money." Horan explained.

"Well, that's why we have done low cost signings until now, right? Who is it?" I asked.

"Alex Iwobi. He is 23. Offensive midfielder."

"I like that. I've heard of him. Do we know how he is with his teammates? I am not a fan of big egos." I said.

"Me neither. We will have to inform ourselves about that." He replied.

This Horan is like a brand new person. Now we both know things about each other we didn't before, and we realised we can understand each other if we make an effort.

"With the videos, it is usually enough to know about his attitude." I said.

"You think so?" He asked.

"Until now, it worked for me." I said.

"Then what a great vision you have." He laughed softly. "I'll have to let you do that because I can't see someone's personality in a video of them playing football."

"It's not that hard once you do it a few times." I let out a small laugh. "I'll show you how."

We spent the rest of the morning watching videos of Iwobi. We both agreed that he would fit in our plans, and that he seemed to be a good teammate.

/

Today has been the best day since I started working here. I actually arrived home smiling, feeling good.

I also reminded myself that we agreed to be nice to each other during the transfer period. I still don't know if this Horan is the real one. Probably not.

/

The next morning, I arrived at our office and Horan arrived a minute later. We sat at our desks after saying good morning to each other, and turned on our computers.

All I know since yesterday, is everything has changed. The environment in the office is something else now.

Smiles on our faces, and excitement over signing new players is everything you could see by entering our office.

"Greenwood, we should present an official bid to Arsenal for Iwobi." Horan told me.

"Definitely. How much should we offer?"

"Market value is at 30, so more than that. But we have to try to get a good price." He explained.

"Then let's offer 29." I said.

"That's not going to work, Greenwood." He said.

"I know. But I always try anyway, just in case. And also, if we start offering 29, they will think we are generously paying 31." I explained. "Why do you think we paid such a good price for Styles?"

"You did that?" He said, surprised.

"I always do. I thought everyone did." I admitted.

"You are unbelievable." He laughed softly.