This summer appears to be a big one in terms of transfers.
As Man City have reached the heights of England, it will be up to other sides
to improve in order to challenge them. With Malaga and PSG qualifying for the
Champions League, expect also much spending from these sides in order to put themselves
in contention for European dominance. And in Italy, the Old Lady has risen from
the Calciopoli scandal and has put herself back on top, expect also to see the
sides from Milan strengthen and Juve to improve as they venture back into the
Champions League. This list is The Whitehouse Address’ beliefs of the big names
moving this summer.
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Hazard is the best young player available this summer. With
Mario Gotze and Neymar staying for at least another year at their respective
clubs, then Hazard is the most sought player out there. He has made his
intentions to play in England known, however surely Madrid could see him as a
replacement for Di Maria, Juve or Milan would consider him a worthy investment
also? And PSG or Malaga would certainly be able to offer him the money and the
opportunity to be a marquee player for them. However, it must be Manchester where
he is heading. Reports have hinted that Spurs and Chelsea are interested, yet
Manchester is his best option. Just which one? City can offer him riches, world
class quality and the chance to go and win major trophies in the coming years.
Yet United should look at Hazard as a definite purchase; they need to show
their intent, to show City and the world that they can bring in the best talent
around and importantly they need a player like Hazard, Rooney needs a player
with his quality to link up with. Nani has shown he is not good enough for
United, Hazard should be his replacement.
Didier Drogba
One of the best strikers in the past decade in world
football. His career at Chelsea started slowly yet he has developed into one of
the best strikers Chelsea have had. He has been a key part of Chelsea’s
success, yet it appears that his time at Chelsea is now at an end. His
influence at Stamford Bridge will be sorely missed and the era without Drogba
will be difficult for Chelsea. In terms of where he should go, many have touted
him with a move to China, however although it will provide him with a big pay check,
there is still more for Drogba to offer a top European side. With PSG and
Malaga looking for quality to push on in Europe and with their clear financial
incentives, I believe that Drogba will be best suited for the Camp Nou. It is
no surprise that Guardiola has feared Drogba as much as any other forward, the
game in 2009 at Stamford Bridge led him to go and purchase Zlatan, believing
that a big, strong target man was necessary. Zlatan didn’t work well, yet this
was because he is a starter and did not appreciate being an impact sub. This is
why Drogba is ideal, he will not be able to play every game, yet he can offer
Barca that “plan b” approach when needed. On a free too, he will be perfect for
Vilanova to give Barca an extra edge in their quest to get back on top in Spain
and Europe.
Falcao showed the world again that he is the best finisher
in the world with two goals in the Europa League final this season. Last season
he scored in the final too, winning the trophy for Porto. A £40million move to
Atletico Madrid followed and he has shown his class again this year, scoring 36
goals in all competitions. He signed for £4 million from River Plate in 2009
and has shown his pure class in front of goal. One of the best forwards in
world football did not get Champions League football this season with Atletico
and so he is now on the list of every top side in world football. In my opinion
realistic sides that Falcao could go for, those who could afford the £45m
transfer cost, would be Chelsea, Juventus, PSG, Malaga and Man City. With
Drogba going leaving can Chelsea rely on Torres to lead the line? Falcao for me
is a better option. Man City could flex their muscle, especially if Dzeko and
Tevez depart. Yet it could be Juventus who deem Falcao a worthwhile purchase,
last season they missed out on Aguero, they don’t want to miss out on another
world class striker.
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At 27 years old, Llorente has been a one club man so far,
236 games for Bilbao and 79 goals return is not a bad return. Yet in the past
four seasons he has averaged 20 goals a season and this season in particular he
has shown his quality under the reign of Bielsa. A change in tactics had people
worried that Bilbao’s direct style would affect Llorente’s play this year,
instead it has brought out the best in him. His performances in the Europa
League have been sublime and it would appear that this summer could be the time
he moves on. He has a buy out clause of around £40m, it may be more that a £25m
offer could persuade the Basque club to depart with their striker. He is a
formidable striker, who possesses skill and speed along with strength and power
which could allow him to be effective in any league. Reports have linked him
with Man City and Barcelona already. Yet if one side need a player like him,
then it is Man Utd. With Owen and Berbatov leaving the club this summer United
will need a new striker in order to compete with City. Welbeck and Hernandez
have potential yet United may need a dynamic target man to play off Rooney and
give Valencia a major option for his deliveries. United should see Llorente as
a worthwhile purchase, although older than what Ferguson goes for, he should be
part of the rebuilding job that United have to do.
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One of the biggest players available this summer, the Van
Persie transfer will occupy many sports pages this summer. His impressive 18
months without injury has shown the world his class and he almost single
handily taken Arsenal into the Champions League next season. He has spoken of
his love of London and how his family love the city, yet he should consider the
potential he has at Arsenal to be successful. At 29 he is entering the end of his
career in terms of the elite level and so his choice this season will be
defining for him. For footballing reasons he should decide to leave Arsenal and
as with Henry and Fabregas, he should decide to move to Barcelona and look to
surround himself with top quality. Arsenal cannot offer him what he seeks, if
he stays one more year Arsenal will not get anything for him and with Arsenal’s
business model, they would not see that as economical. I am sure Juve, PSG and
Malaga would see his signature as a show of intent, yet Barcelona, if only for
two years, will be an ideal location for him to win things and for him to
improve further.
According to Guillem Balague Higuain wants to leave Madrid.
After seven years at the Bernabeau he wants to move on, he hasn’t played in the
biggest games which he wants to, Jose favouring Benzema in those games. It
would appear that he has his heart set on PSG, who could afford the fee and
wages. Madrid say they will not allow him to leave unless his transfer clause
of £150m is met, this clearly will not happen, yet if he wants to leave then
Madrid may accept it is better to cash in and replace him with a player who
wants to be there. A bid of £30-40m may be enough if he puts his foot down,
this should alert other sides too, notably Chelsea, who would benefit from such
a prolific goal scorer.
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The enigma which is Carlos Tevez continues to fascinate the
world of football. Since his arrival in England he has amazed the media with
his performances, style and off the field antics. This season he has been at
his controversial best, whether his decisions or that of his advisors, it is
still a reflection on the player. Man City undermined their position and morals
this season by welcoming him back, yet the title was won and his influence was
a factor. However, if City wish to progress further they need to rid themselves
of this player as he creates far too many issues. City can look to bring in
another striker of the quality of Tevez and so shoud see him as expendable. He
will have many suitors, most notably PSG and Malaga who can afford the man and
who could probably accept his off the pitch issues. Milan sought him in January
and I’m sure they’ll look again. Inter could be interested and Tevez could be a
player who could put them back into the Champions League. For all his quality
he is also a lot of trouble, City don’t need him, yet other do.
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In July 2010 Giroud joined Montpellier for £2m and has
scored 39 goals for the club in that time. This season he has been a major
force in taking Montpellier to the top of Ligue 1. His performances have
alerted many top sides in Europe and has resulted in a price tag of £50m being
put on him. Wenger has spoken highly of the 25 year old yet would not be able
to afford the transfer. PSG may deem him worthy of the fee however, especially
as he may be the reason for them not winning the title this season. Expect
Malaga to be looking also, as he he and Cazorla could be a lively partnership.
Expect Giroud to move on this summer.
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Last summer Modric seemed destined to leave Spurs and head
to a Champions League side. Ferguson regards him as the closest thing to
Scholes apart from Xavi and Iniesta and Chelsea were willing to pay £40 million
for his services. However, Levy decided that no money was worth losing this
playmaker, it was in hindsight probably a mistake, that money could have helped
buy necessary players, especially a striker. I don’t believe Modric has been
his best this year, which is no surprise when you consider he wanted to leave.
Will he go this summer? Definitely. Yet will Spurs get £40m, no. United would
be silly not to go for him, he is what United need to
After a relatively poor night in the Champions League final,
Robben can be held accountable for Munich picking up only runners up medals
this season in all three competitions. By all accounts a good season by the
Dutchman yet there has been rumours that he wants to move and made hints of
seeking a move to Italy recently. At 28 and with his injury record, Bayern may
decide that Robben is not indispensable and will look to cash in. Spurs have
been linked yet with no Champions League football on offer it will be difficult
to convince him to go to London. Juventus would be interested and would
certainly benefit from a player of Robben’s speed and skill. Inter and Roma
would see him as a show of intent, yet they too cannot offer Champions League
football. PSG may be his best option however, linking up with Pastore, he could
be a real show of intent from the Paris side. Expect £25-30m to be the fee necessary
to get him.
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As Nesta retires from Milan, they may lose another of their defence in Silva. Next to Kompany he is the best defender in the world and is on the top of the list of many top sides. His ability to read the game, his speed and his tackling ability make him a formidable defender. Barcelona have been rumoured to be interested in bolstering their defence, yet do not be surprised if Madrid and Man City come looking, with £30m price tag not unrealistic for player of this quality. He will improve any side he goes to and will make his new club favourites for the Champions League next season, that is how good he is. Expect this transfer to be one of the biggest of the summer.
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Arguably one of the best defenders in the world consistently
for the past three seasons. He owes a lot to Dortmund and the trust that Jurgen
Klopp has had in him. A man who was deemed too slow for Bayern has become a
world class defender for club and country. With Dortmund’s financial situation,
they may have to sell some of their stars in order to keep building and Hummels
is now a £25m defender. Reports have been of Barca, Madrid and United looking
at him. All of these clubs require a player of the quality of Hummels who will
improve the sides without doubt. If Silva leaves Milan however, do not be
surprised if Milan seek Hummels as a replacement, especially as Nesta has
retired from the club.
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Kagawa joined Dortmund for £300k from the J-league. The impressive scouting system of Dortmund found a gem in Kagawa and his performances in the past two seasons have brought Dortmund back to back titles. His movement, skill and creativity have been essential in Gotze’s absence yet it appears he is ready for a move. Dortmund just cannot offer the wages for top players. United appear the team ahead in the race to sign him, he will bring much needed speed and skill to play with Rooney. He is not world class, yet has potential to improve further. A fee of £15m will be good enough and that will be recouped with the marketing value in the Asian market.
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A few weeks ago it seemed M’Vila was a done deal at Arsenal.
Yet with many targets of Arsenal, it hasn’t been easy. If Arsenal cannot get
the deal done, then other sides should look at the French international. He is
one of the best young defensive midfielders around and after this Euro’s,
expect his stock to only rise. United should look to enquiry about a player who
will give them what they clearly lack in midfield. PSG would not be a bad
location for him to develop under the stewardess of Ancelotti. Do not be
surprised if Mourinho considers him for Madrid, Khedira lacks the mobility to
influence the big games, the game versus Bayern showed that and M’Vila may the
Makelele of which Madrid have never really replaced. If Arsenal don’t act
quickly, expect other sides to come looking.
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Martinez won the Under 21 tournament for Spain last summer
as captain and playing at centre midfield. This season with Bilbao he has been
turned into a ball playing centre back under Bielsa and has impressed greatly.
It would appear he is ready for a move onwards and he will be a target for many
top sides this summer. Barcelona may consider him a good purchase considering
his versatility to play in a number of positions, yet it may be that him and
Busquets are too similar. United are reportedly interested and his ability to
play in defence or midfield will be a major factor if they decide he is worth
the £20 million. However, do not be surprised if Man City view him as an ideal
replacement for Gareth Barry in that defensive midifield position and also as a
back up option in defence if injuries do have an effect. Arsenal would benefit
from a player of this quality yet I doubt if they would be willing to spend the
money.
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One of only a few players to come out of Blackburn’s season
with any credit, Hoilett is available on a free transfer this summer and will
be sought by many sides. Reports have linked him to Bayern, yet Hoilett may not
want to play on the bench for the upcoming season. There is no question that
Liverpool would benefit from a player who is quick, skilful and creative and
who could be a real supply for Andy Carroll. I don’t think Hoilett is good
enough for a top side, yet with teams like Inter, Roma and Atletico Madrid they
may look at him as good option.
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Chieck Tiote was a title winning player under Steve McLaren
in 09-10 with FC Twente and his performances earned him a move to Newcastle
United for £3.5 million. His performances at St James’ have propelled Newcastle
up the league and has he has received accolades from all in the game. Tiote is
signed up till 2017 yet Pardew admitted that Tiote that would be available for
around £15m this summer. For Tiote, although he has finished 5th this
season, he is good enough for Champions League football. There are two sides
who should find Tiote an essential purchase; Man Utd and Arsenal. Both have
lacked the drive and dominance in midfield which they once had in Vieria, Gilberto,
Keane and Darren Fletcher and as a result they have been over run in midfield
this season at times. If these sides wish to compete in domestically and in
Europe they will require a defensive mid who is disciplined and able in that
position; giving support to the defence and starting attacks for the forwards.
One of these clubs will improve greatly by purchasing the Ivorian.
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Sahin was one of the best midfielders last season, he was
the playmaker who made Dortmund tick and was a big reason in their title
winning season. No wonder he moved to a bigger club, yet this season has been
pretty bad for him; injuries have curtailed the majority of it, and only 4
appearances was not what he expected. If he wants to kick start his career then
he should seek a move, perhaps a move back to Dortmund would be
possible however I doubt if they could afford the fee or wages. His
lack of pace yet creative play means he could be suited for Italian football.
He would be a good purchase for Juve, Milan or Udinese and for around £6m it
would be a good deal for a talented player at only 23 years old.
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Piszcek has been a revelation for Dortmund since
joining in 2010. An attacking right back, he has shown his quality and although
Dortmund are Champions, they will be resigned to losing players of Piszcek’s
class. He has alerted Real Madrid as they look for a more attacking option
instead of Arbeloa and for sides like Barca, Chelsea and United who all could
benefit from a strong right back. He would be available for £10-12m and would
be a good signing for any top side.
The attacking left back for Valencia will be seen this
summer making marauding runs for Spain. Alba has been excellent this season and
Valencia know that his time at the Mestalla is at an end. Barcelona will need a
left back to replace Abidal and Alba, a graduate of La Masia will be ideal for
the Blaugrana. Expect £8-10m to be the fee, a very good price for a player of
Alba’s quality. If United feel they need to move on from Evra then they should try
to hijack the move and get Alba into a new look United side. His speed, skill
and ability in both defence and attack will give United more than what Evra has
given the past couple of seasons. However, expect Barca to have the first
option on the Spanish star.
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40 goals this season has put Jordan Rhodes on the list of
many Premier League sides, his movement and clinical touch has made many sit up
and take note. At 22 years old he clearly has a lot more improvement in him. As
players like Grant Holt and Danny Graham have shown, there is talent in the
lower leagues and clubs willing to take a risk on someone like Rhodes could be
a risk worth taking. If he get’s promoted then expect a £5-8m fee to pry him away.
Teams like Villa, Fulham and newly promoted Reading and West Ham would all benefit
from a goal scorer like Rhodes.
Eden Hazard
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Hazard is the best young player available this summer. With
Mario Gotze and Neymar staying for at least another year at their respective
clubs, then Hazard is the most sought player out there. He has made his
intentions to play in England known, however surely Madrid could see him as a
replacement for Di Maria, Juve or Milan would consider him a worthy investment
also? And PSG or Malaga would certainly be able to offer him the money and the
opportunity to be a marquee player for them. However, it must be Manchester where
he is heading. Reports have hinted that Spurs and Chelsea are interested, yet
Manchester is his best option. Just which one? City can offer him riches, world
class quality and the chance to go and win major trophies in the coming years.
Yet United should look at Hazard as a definite purchase; they need to show
their intent, to show City and the world that they can bring in the best talent
around and importantly they need a player like Hazard, Rooney needs a player
with his quality to link up with. Nani has shown he is not good enough for
United, Hazard should be his replacement.
One of the best strikers in the past decade in world
football. His career at Chelsea started slowly yet he has developed into one of
the best strikers Chelsea have had. He has been a key part of Chelsea’s
success, yet it appears that his time at Chelsea is now at an end. His
influence at Stamford Bridge will be sorely missed and the era without Drogba
will be difficult for Chelsea. In terms of where he should go, many have touted
him with a move to China, however although it will provide him with a big pay check,
there is still more for Drogba to offer a top European side. With PSG and
Malaga looking for quality to push on in Europe and with their clear financial
incentives, I believe that Drogba will be best suited for the Camp Nou. It is
no surprise that Guardiola has feared Drogba as much as any other forward, the
game in 2009 at Stamford Bridge led him to go and purchase Zlatan, believing
that a big, strong target man was necessary. Zlatan didn’t work well, yet this
was because he is a starter and did not appreciate being an impact sub. This is
why Drogba is ideal, he will not be able to play every game, yet he can offer
Barca that “plan b” approach when needed. On a free too, he will be perfect for
Vilanova to give Barca an extra edge in their quest to get back on top in Spain
and Europe.
Radamel Falcao
Falcao showed the world again that he is the best finisher
in the world with two goals in the Europa League final this season. Last season
he scored in the final too, winning the trophy for Porto. A £40million move to
Atletico Madrid followed and he has shown his class again this year, scoring 36
goals in all competitions. He signed for £4 million from River Plate in 2009
and has shown his pure class in front of goal. One of the best forwards in
world football did not get Champions League football this season with Atletico
and so he is now on the list of every top side in world football. In my opinion
realistic sides that Falcao could go for, those who could afford the £45m
transfer cost, would be Chelsea, Juventus, PSG, Malaga and Man City. With
Drogba going leaving can Chelsea rely on Torres to lead the line? Falcao for me
is a better option. Man City could flex their muscle, especially if Dzeko and
Tevez depart. Yet it could be Juventus who deem Falcao a worthwhile purchase,
last season they missed out on Aguero, they don’t want to miss out on another
world class striker.
Fernando Llorente
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At 27 years old, Llorente has been a one club man so far,
236 games for Bilbao and 79 goals return is not a bad return. Yet in the past
four seasons he has averaged 20 goals a season and this season in particular he
has shown his quality under the reign of Bielsa. A change in tactics had people
worried that Bilbao’s direct style would affect Llorente’s play this year,
instead it has brought out the best in him. His performances in the Europa
League have been sublime and it would appear that this summer could be the time
he moves on. He has a buy out clause of around £40m, it may be more that a £25m
offer could persuade the Basque club to depart with their striker. He is a
formidable striker, who possesses skill and speed along with strength and power
which could allow him to be effective in any league. Reports have linked him
with Man City and Barcelona already. Yet if one side need a player like him,
then it is Man Utd. With Owen and Berbatov leaving the club this summer United
will need a new striker in order to compete with City. Welbeck and Hernandez
have potential yet United may need a dynamic target man to play off Rooney and
give Valencia a major option for his deliveries. United should see Llorente as
a worthwhile purchase, although older than what Ferguson goes for, he should be
part of the rebuilding job that United have to do.
Robin Van Persie
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One of the biggest players available this summer, the Van
Persie transfer will occupy many sports pages this summer. His impressive 18
months without injury has shown the world his class and he almost single
handily taken Arsenal into the Champions League next season. He has spoken of
his love of London and how his family love the city, yet he should consider the
potential he has at Arsenal to be successful. At 29 he is entering the end of his
career in terms of the elite level and so his choice this season will be
defining for him. For footballing reasons he should decide to leave Arsenal and
as with Henry and Fabregas, he should decide to move to Barcelona and look to
surround himself with top quality. Arsenal cannot offer him what he seeks, if
he stays one more year Arsenal will not get anything for him and with Arsenal’s
business model, they would not see that as economical. I am sure Juve, PSG and
Malaga would see his signature as a show of intent, yet Barcelona, if only for
two years, will be an ideal location for him to win things and for him to
improve further.
Gonzalo Higuain
According to Guillem Balague Higuain wants to leave Madrid.
After seven years at the Bernabeau he wants to move on, he hasn’t played in the
biggest games which he wants to, Jose favouring Benzema in those games. It
would appear that he has his heart set on PSG, who could afford the fee and
wages. Madrid say they will not allow him to leave unless his transfer clause
of £150m is met, this clearly will not happen, yet if he wants to leave then
Madrid may accept it is better to cash in and replace him with a player who
wants to be there. A bid of £30-40m may be enough if he puts his foot down,
this should alert other sides too, notably Chelsea, who would benefit from such
a prolific goal scorer.
Carlos Tevez
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The enigma which is Carlos Tevez continues to fascinate the
world of football. Since his arrival in England he has amazed the media with
his performances, style and off the field antics. This season he has been at
his controversial best, whether his decisions or that of his advisors, it is
still a reflection on the player. Man City undermined their position and morals
this season by welcoming him back, yet the title was won and his influence was
a factor. However, if City wish to progress further they need to rid themselves
of this player as he creates far too many issues. City can look to bring in
another striker of the quality of Tevez and so shoud see him as expendable. He
will have many suitors, most notably PSG and Malaga who can afford the man and
who could probably accept his off the pitch issues. Milan sought him in January
and I’m sure they’ll look again. Inter could be interested and Tevez could be a
player who could put them back into the Champions League. For all his quality
he is also a lot of trouble, City don’t need him, yet other do.
Olivier Giroud
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In July 2010 Giroud joined Montpellier for £2m and has
scored 39 goals for the club in that time. This season he has been a major
force in taking Montpellier to the top of Ligue 1. His performances have
alerted many top sides in Europe and has resulted in a price tag of £50m being
put on him. Wenger has spoken highly of the 25 year old yet would not be able
to afford the transfer. PSG may deem him worthy of the fee however, especially
as he may be the reason for them not winning the title this season. Expect
Malaga to be looking also, as he he and Cazorla could be a lively partnership.
Expect Giroud to move on this summer.
Luka Modric
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Last summer Modric seemed destined to leave Spurs and head
to a Champions League side. Ferguson regards him as the closest thing to
Scholes apart from Xavi and Iniesta and Chelsea were willing to pay £40 million
for his services. However, Levy decided that no money was worth losing this
playmaker, it was in hindsight probably a mistake, that money could have helped
buy necessary players, especially a striker. I don’t believe Modric has been
his best this year, which is no surprise when you consider he wanted to leave.
Will he go this summer? Definitely. Yet will Spurs get £40m, no. United would
be silly not to go for him, he is what United need to
supplement the midfield
and be the new Scholes. Chelsea appear to be building a side of small technical
players and he could be a great addition to provide the attack with scoring
chances. Juventus however could be a great destination for the Croatian, with
Pirlo in the twilight of his career, Modric could be a great partner to
Marchisio and Vidal and become the playmaker for the Old Lady.
Arjen Robben
After a relatively poor night in the Champions League final,
Robben can be held accountable for Munich picking up only runners up medals
this season in all three competitions. By all accounts a good season by the
Dutchman yet there has been rumours that he wants to move and made hints of
seeking a move to Italy recently. At 28 and with his injury record, Bayern may
decide that Robben is not indispensable and will look to cash in. Spurs have
been linked yet with no Champions League football on offer it will be difficult
to convince him to go to London. Juventus would be interested and would
certainly benefit from a player of Robben’s speed and skill. Inter and Roma
would see him as a show of intent, yet they too cannot offer Champions League
football. PSG may be his best option however, linking up with Pastore, he could
be a real show of intent from the Paris side. Expect £25-30m to be the fee necessary
to get him.
Thiago Silva
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As Nesta retires from Milan, they may lose another of their defence in Silva. Next to Kompany he is the best defender in the world and is on the top of the list of many top sides. His ability to read the game, his speed and his tackling ability make him a formidable defender. Barcelona have been rumoured to be interested in bolstering their defence, yet do not be surprised if Madrid and Man City come looking, with £30m price tag not unrealistic for player of this quality. He will improve any side he goes to and will make his new club favourites for the Champions League next season, that is how good he is. Expect this transfer to be one of the biggest of the summer.
Mats Hummels
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Arguably one of the best defenders in the world consistently
for the past three seasons. He owes a lot to Dortmund and the trust that Jurgen
Klopp has had in him. A man who was deemed too slow for Bayern has become a
world class defender for club and country. With Dortmund’s financial situation,
they may have to sell some of their stars in order to keep building and Hummels
is now a £25m defender. Reports have been of Barca, Madrid and United looking
at him. All of these clubs require a player of the quality of Hummels who will
improve the sides without doubt. If Silva leaves Milan however, do not be
surprised if Milan seek Hummels as a replacement, especially as Nesta has
retired from the club.
Shinji Kagawa
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Kagawa joined Dortmund for £300k from the J-league. The impressive scouting system of Dortmund found a gem in Kagawa and his performances in the past two seasons have brought Dortmund back to back titles. His movement, skill and creativity have been essential in Gotze’s absence yet it appears he is ready for a move. Dortmund just cannot offer the wages for top players. United appear the team ahead in the race to sign him, he will bring much needed speed and skill to play with Rooney. He is not world class, yet has potential to improve further. A fee of £15m will be good enough and that will be recouped with the marketing value in the Asian market.
Yann M’Vila
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A few weeks ago it seemed M’Vila was a done deal at Arsenal.
Yet with many targets of Arsenal, it hasn’t been easy. If Arsenal cannot get
the deal done, then other sides should look at the French international. He is
one of the best young defensive midfielders around and after this Euro’s,
expect his stock to only rise. United should look to enquiry about a player who
will give them what they clearly lack in midfield. PSG would not be a bad
location for him to develop under the stewardess of Ancelotti. Do not be
surprised if Mourinho considers him for Madrid, Khedira lacks the mobility to
influence the big games, the game versus Bayern showed that and M’Vila may the
Makelele of which Madrid have never really replaced. If Arsenal don’t act
quickly, expect other sides to come looking.
Javi Martinez
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Martinez won the Under 21 tournament for Spain last summer
as captain and playing at centre midfield. This season with Bilbao he has been
turned into a ball playing centre back under Bielsa and has impressed greatly.
It would appear he is ready for a move onwards and he will be a target for many
top sides this summer. Barcelona may consider him a good purchase considering
his versatility to play in a number of positions, yet it may be that him and
Busquets are too similar. United are reportedly interested and his ability to
play in defence or midfield will be a major factor if they decide he is worth
the £20 million. However, do not be surprised if Man City view him as an ideal
replacement for Gareth Barry in that defensive midifield position and also as a
back up option in defence if injuries do have an effect. Arsenal would benefit
from a player of this quality yet I doubt if they would be willing to spend the
money.
Junior Hoilett
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One of only a few players to come out of Blackburn’s season
with any credit, Hoilett is available on a free transfer this summer and will
be sought by many sides. Reports have linked him to Bayern, yet Hoilett may not
want to play on the bench for the upcoming season. There is no question that
Liverpool would benefit from a player who is quick, skilful and creative and
who could be a real supply for Andy Carroll. I don’t think Hoilett is good
enough for a top side, yet with teams like Inter, Roma and Atletico Madrid they
may look at him as good option.
Chiek Tiote
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Chieck Tiote was a title winning player under Steve McLaren
in 09-10 with FC Twente and his performances earned him a move to Newcastle
United for £3.5 million. His performances at St James’ have propelled Newcastle
up the league and has he has received accolades from all in the game. Tiote is
signed up till 2017 yet Pardew admitted that Tiote that would be available for
around £15m this summer. For Tiote, although he has finished 5th this
season, he is good enough for Champions League football. There are two sides
who should find Tiote an essential purchase; Man Utd and Arsenal. Both have
lacked the drive and dominance in midfield which they once had in Vieria, Gilberto,
Keane and Darren Fletcher and as a result they have been over run in midfield
this season at times. If these sides wish to compete in domestically and in
Europe they will require a defensive mid who is disciplined and able in that
position; giving support to the defence and starting attacks for the forwards.
One of these clubs will improve greatly by purchasing the Ivorian.
Nuri Sahin
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Sahin was one of the best midfielders last season, he was
the playmaker who made Dortmund tick and was a big reason in their title
winning season. No wonder he moved to a bigger club, yet this season has been
pretty bad for him; injuries have curtailed the majority of it, and only 4
appearances was not what he expected. If he wants to kick start his career then
he should seek a move, perhaps a move back to Dortmund would be
possible however I doubt if they could afford the fee or wages. His
lack of pace yet creative play means he could be suited for Italian football.
He would be a good purchase for Juve, Milan or Udinese and for around £6m it
would be a good deal for a talented player at only 23 years old.
Łukasz Piszczek
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Piszcek has been a revelation for Dortmund since
joining in 2010. An attacking right back, he has shown his quality and although
Dortmund are Champions, they will be resigned to losing players of Piszcek’s
class. He has alerted Real Madrid as they look for a more attacking option
instead of Arbeloa and for sides like Barca, Chelsea and United who all could
benefit from a strong right back. He would be available for £10-12m and would
be a good signing for any top side.
Jordi Alba
The attacking left back for Valencia will be seen this
summer making marauding runs for Spain. Alba has been excellent this season and
Valencia know that his time at the Mestalla is at an end. Barcelona will need a
left back to replace Abidal and Alba, a graduate of La Masia will be ideal for
the Blaugrana. Expect £8-10m to be the fee, a very good price for a player of
Alba’s quality. If United feel they need to move on from Evra then they should try
to hijack the move and get Alba into a new look United side. His speed, skill
and ability in both defence and attack will give United more than what Evra has
given the past couple of seasons. However, expect Barca to have the first
option on the Spanish star.
Jordan Rhodes
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40 goals this season has put Jordan Rhodes on the list of
many Premier League sides, his movement and clinical touch has made many sit up
and take note. At 22 years old he clearly has a lot more improvement in him. As
players like Grant Holt and Danny Graham have shown, there is talent in the
lower leagues and clubs willing to take a risk on someone like Rhodes could be
a risk worth taking. If he get’s promoted then expect a £5-8m fee to pry him away.
Teams like Villa, Fulham and newly promoted Reading and West Ham would all benefit
from a goal scorer like Rhodes.
Thoughts? Please comment below. Find me at Twitter @The_W_Address
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