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It was an exhilarating start for Swansea in the current 2015/2016 Premier League season. Front men Bafetimbi Gomis and Andre Ayew seemed almost unstoppable as Gary Monk's side charged into what looked a promising campaign. But as this season has shown, not everything sticks according to plan. Swansea have found themselves hovering just above the relegation zone as the fore-mentioned Gomis has gone all but quiet, needing more and more cover with continued questions over his form. Swansea's new manager, Italian Francesco Guidolin identified Paloschi as the man to ease the pressure up top, signing the striker for an undisclosed fee from Serie A side Chievo. Let's take a look at what possible impact this may have for our fantasy selection.
Who is Alberto Paloschi?
The transfer to Swansea in the Premier League marks the first time Paloschi has left his native Italian league. Having spent time with clubs such as AC Milan, winning the FIFA Club World Cup in 2007 with the Milan giants, Paloschi made his name for Chievo after a short stints with Parma and Genoa. Paloschi scored 41 goals across 6 seasons with Chievo between 2011 and 2016 before signing for the Swans. While not a particularly a proficient striker, Paloschi has only hit double digit goal tallies twice in his career, once with Parma and Chievo respectively.
What impact will Paloschi have on the Swan's starting line-up?
Alberto Paloschi should slot straight into the starting 11 with Gomis and Routledge failing to convince up top. Francesco Guidolin could opt to move Routledge back to the flank leaving Paloschi as the lone striker in a 4-2-3-1 formation. A partnership with Gomis looks unlikely, so the newly signed Italian should have plenty of opportunities without being behind in the pecking order.
How will this affect your fantasy selection?
Moving to the Premier League, especially during the January transfer window, hasn't always been the easiest transition for foreign players. Given Paloschi hasn't exactly set Serie A alight with his goal scoring prowess, it will remain to be seen if he can take up the mantle as the main man for Swansea. The next 4 matches don't look too appealing for the Swans as they face Crystal Palace, Southampton, @Tottenham and @Arsenal. However, if Paloschi can find his feet in those matches, then early March looks much better for investment as the Swans take on Norwich, @Bournemouth, and Aston Villa.
Cheers!
Kellz