Five transfer targets to light up the Premier League
With the Premier League season grinding to a close, media attention is beginning to turn towards which superstars could be signed to the big sides and light the league up again. With rivals coming in the shape of money men PSG, Bayern Munich and assorted Russian clubs, English teams are having to battle hard in order to welcome in the big boys. Here are five big names who might just make the move:
5) Christian Eriksen (Ajax)
Christian Eriksen of Ajax (Getty Images)
Often compared with Swansea manager Michael Laudrup, Denmark playmaker Christian Eriksen is one of Europe’s hottest properties. Drafted into the Ajax midfield at an early age, he was forced to develop a street wise game belying his years, and that will put him in good stead should he opt to join one of the English clubs vying for his signature. The fact that his contract expires next year will drive his price down, and Ajax will have to sell now rather than lose him in a year for nothing.
Linked with – Liverpool, Tottenham, Chelsea.
Asking price – £14m.
4) Stevan Jovetic (Fiorentina)
Anyone who watched England’s 1-0 defeat in Montenegro this week will be well aware of Jovetic’s considerable talents. A technically gifted, deep lying attacker, the Fiorentina man isn’t a ’20 a season man’, but his creativity and impression on the big games are traits that are invaluable on the big stage. His side sit in fifth place in Serie A, 3 points from the Champions League spots, and 3 ahead of the Europa League chasing pack. If they don’t make the big time, expect him to make a move.
Linked with – Arsenal, Man City.
Asking price – £20m.
3) Edinson Cavani (Napoli)
Edison Cavani of Napoli (Getty Images)
The calibre steps up a touch here with one of the world’s most admired strikers once again finding himself in the gossip columns. Even without his partner in crime Ezequiel Lavezzi, who signed for big money at PSG last summer, Cavani has enjoyed a spectacular goal scoring season in Serie A. 20 goals in only 26 games tells its own story in a league renowned for its defensive capabilities. That said, Napoli look dead certs to regain their Champion League place, and any Premier League side keen to add Cavani to their squad will have to pay silly money. Depending on what might happen to Ibrahimovic this summer, PSG is a far more likely option. File this under ‘sceptical’.
Linked with – Man City.
Asking price – £60m.
2) Radamel Falcao (Atletico Madrid)
Falcao has been a revelation for Madrid’s dark horse side since his move from Porto for the best part of £35m in 2011. Doing the unthinkable, he has challenged the Messi/Ronaldo monopoly in the ‘world’s best’ debate with a combination of quick feet, strength, and of course, an impressive goals tally. After what may prove to be a trophy-less season fraught with supporter unrest, it is widely accepted that Roman Abramovich is likely to dip into his pockets and pull out a superstar, and with ex-Atletico legend Fernando Torres up his sleeve, he holds useful cards in the race for Falcao.
Linked with – Chelsea, Man City.
Asking price – £80m.
1) Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid)
Cristiano Ronaldo of Real Madrid (Getty Images)
Just across the city from Falcao is one of football’s true all time greats. In a pantheon of legends such as Pele, Maradona and his arch-nemesis Lionel Messi, Ronaldo is as much genius and he is glitz and glamour. For once, the sky high price tag matches the talent – Ronaldo is the real deal – and depending on how he finishes the season, this could raise the biggest Manchester battle since the title race last season. City have the cash, but United have the memories. If Madrid choose to sell, expect the winners to enjoy a period of Premier League domination.
Linked with – Man City, Man United.
Asking price – £70m.