Transfer Rumours: Ten players who could be on the move this summer
The transfer window has been kicked open and teams throughout Europe aim to successfully navigate their way through it avoiding doing the equivalent of cutting themselves on shards of broken glass by signing the wrong players.
Although not all such ‘hazards’ are dangerous as Real Madrid have already proven with their acquisition of Chelsea’s star man, and given the statement made by such a major transfer, other top sides are certainly going to be prompted to follow suit.
That said, a lot of teams may actually need to sell before attempting to recruit and it seems that some big names could be in line to make big moves before the late summer deadline day.
Mesut Ozil
Arsenal’s £350,000 a week white elephant. Despite being one of the most gifted midfielders in the modern game, questions continue to be raised about the German World Cup winner’s application in Red and White recently. With both player and club suffering difficult and ultimately disappointing seasons respectively, it may be beneficial for to cut the cord and part ways this summer.
Alexis Sanchez
Another highly-paid out of sorts player, the Chilean has flattered to deceive since his move to Old Trafford 18 months ago. Struggling to find his feet under two different managers, a change of scenery must surely be on the cards if Alexis is start looking anything like the player he was before leaving Arsenal.
Gareth Bale
The Welshman’s time in the Spanish capital has been littered with honours both individually and part of the team. However, with injuries and constant managerial changes, things haven’t always run smoothly for Bale at the Bernabeu. The return of Zinedine Zidane to the dugout hasn’t helped, with the Frenchman reportedly not considering Bale as part of his long term plans.
Adrien Rabiot
Perpetually linked with a move away from Paris over the last 12 months, this summer might finally see Rabiot depart the French capital. After seemingly damaging his relationship with PSG beyond repair, a number of clubs are reportedly waiting in the wings to perhaps take a chance on the midfielder.
Paul Pogba
The Frenchman has been something of a lightning rod for criticism, essentially shouldering the blame for much of Manchester United’s problems this season. Accused of underperforming and failing to make best use of his obvious talents even the Old Trafford faithful seem to have lost patience - especially given rumours of his departure have persisted for months.
Leroy Sane
One of the most exciting young players in England since his arrival, Sane has struggled to command a regular starting place under manager Pep Guardiola this season, rarely playing a full 90 minutes and often being left on the bench. Rumours of a return to Germany with Bayern Munich refuse to go away.
Ousmane Dembele
There is absolutely no doubt about the talent possessed by the explosive winger but questions remain over a perceived lack of discipline and professionalism which is said to be impeding his progress at the Camp Nou. With the Frenchman failing to adhere to the supposed high standards at the club, Barcelona may decide to cash in while Demeble is still a valuable asset.
James Rodriguez
Following his eye-catching World Cup display in 2014, the Colombian hasn’t really been able to impose himself either at Real Madrid nor during his two-year loan spell with Bayern Munich. Perhaps not the right fit at a so-called elite level club, James might want to consider moving to a club where he can shine as the main man.
Philippe Coutinho
After Barcelona did damn near everything to pry the Brazilian away from Merseyside, the Catalan club might be feeling a little short-changed as the former Liverpool has so far failed to live up to his considerable price tag. With the player himself reportedly unhappy with his situation, a move could be on the cards sooner rather than later.
Neymar
A coup of a signing for PSG, brought in with the aim of propelling them to the summit of European football, the Brazilian’s two years in France have been impacted by injuries and more recently, disciplinary issues. All the while failing to improve his club’s fortunes in the Champions League. A rumoured return to Spain feels almost inevitable.