Every summer, a wealth of top-class talent fills the tabloid back pages, 99% of whom will end up staying at their current club! Here is a rundown of five of the biggest talents constantly linked with a big money move.
Samuel Eto’o – For some reason Barcelona don’t seem to be too bothered about the potential departure of the Cameroonian goal machine. The La Liga outfit seems keen on offloading a few of their big names, but their willingness to let a goalscorer of such ability leave is frankly mind-boggling.
Keen: Manchester United, Arsenal, Tottenham
Likely: Possibly Arsenal Probably: AC Milan
Klaas Jan Huntelaar – The Ajax hitman is a much-targeted striker. The Dutch international has made noises that suggest he is ready to take a step up and move to pastures new. A prolific finisher who longs to show what he can do in one of the bigger leagues, he has fans in the shape of Arsene and Sir Alex.
Keen: Arsenal
Likely: Man United or possibly another year in Holland
Dimitar Berbatov – The Bulgarian seems ready for a move to Old Trafford just as soon as Daniel Levy is happy with the price. I guess there is no point in trying to hold on to a player, even one as talented at Dimitar, if he has decided he wants to leave. He will be sorely missed at Tottenham but Ramos seems ready to replace him with all manner of top-class strikers.
Keen: Man United, Chelsea
Likely: Odds-on Man United signing by the end of the month
Gareth Barry – Probably played his last game in the claret of Aston Villa and now it’s wait-and-see time as Martin O’Neill and Rafa Benitez haggle over the fee. Arsene Wenger has also decided to enter the ring and could land the midfielder who was excellent last season.
Keen: Liverpool, Arsenal
Likely: Liverpool look more likely to finally snare their long-term target
Ronaldinho – The Brazilian may be looking a little chubby of late, but he surely still has a couple more seasons in the tank. Chelsea have apparently re-entered the race for the former world player of the year and of course Manchester City are making ambitious moves for the attacking midfielder.
Keen: Manchester City, Chelsea, AC Milan
Likely: AC Milan
What do the fans think of these oft-mentioned transfer targets? Which are worthy of close attention and which would be a waste of money?!