http://www.caughtoffside.com English Premier League Football News Blog Mon, 20 May 2013 23:01:56 +0000 en-US hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.5 http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/20/top-20-best-premier-league-players-of-201213/ http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/20/top-20-best-premier-league-players-of-201213/#comments Mon, 20 May 2013 22:59:57 +0000 Mark Brus http://www.caughtoffside.com/?p=145797 The top 20 best players of the 2012/13 Premier League season.

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20. Theo Walcott (Arsenal)

This has undoubtedly been Theo Walcott's best season for Arsenal, with 14 goals and 10 assists in the league to help fire the Gunners to fourth place. He was really the in-form player in the country at the start of the season, with a number of man of the match displays against Tottenham and Newcastle earning him a new contract with the club.





19. Rickie Lambert (Southampton)

Along with Frank Lampard, Southampton striker Rickie Lambert is the joint top English goal scorer in the Premier League this season with 15 goals. However, the 31-year-old's fine displays seem unlikely to earn himself an England call up, which is harsh considering his all-round impressive ability in the Saints' passing and attack-minded game. Not bad at all considering it's his first ever season in the top flight.





18. Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)

It's hardly been a vintage season from Wayne Rooney, but the 27-year-old is still up there with the best players in the country, showing his quality to provide 12 goals and 10 assists for Manchester United. However, his time at Old Trafford may be up after the England star submitted a transfer request. United's loss will be someone else's gain, and the rush of clubs queuing up to sign him shows how valuable a player he can still be if used properly.



17. Romelu Lukaku (West Brom)

The Belgian striker has really impressed on loan at West Brom from Chelsea this season, scoring 17 league goals for the Baggies as they enjoyed an eighth place finish. The 20-year-old is certainly one of the best young players in the league, and deserves a chance at Stamford Bridge next season, though another spell on loan seems most likely. He bid farewell to the Hawthorns with a fantastic hat trick against Manchester United on the final day of the season.



16. Frank Lampard (Chelsea)

Despite his advancing years, Frank Lampard has shown his quality this season, particularly in the latter half of the campaign, scoring some crucial goals to take him to the top of the club's all-time scoring charts and earn himself a much-deserved new contract. The 34-year-old has scored 15 times for the Blues and will still be around for at least one more year, which is bad news for the rest of the teams in the Premier League.





15. Simon Mignolet (Sunderland)

Despite Sunderland's poor season, Belgian goalkeeper Simon Mignolet has been a real stand-out performer for the Black Cats and arguably the best 'keeper in the Premier League this season. His eye-catching saves have caught the attention of the likes of Arsenal and Napoli, who are both keen to sign new goalkeepers this summer. He has helped keep Sunderland from dropping down to the Championship, but his strong displays will surely mean he leaves the club for bigger things in the transfer window.



14. Eden Hazard (Chelsea)

One of many talented Belgians in the Premier League at the moment, Eden Hazard was an exciting arrival to Chelsea last summer when he joined for £27million from French side Lille. The 22-year-old settled immediately, getting off to a flier with one goal and five assists in Chelsea's opening three games. He has finished the season with 9 goals and 11 assists in the league, and was a deserved nominee for PFA Player of the Year, and he certainly looks like he could be a future winner of the award, as well as of plenty of silverware with the Blues.





13. Jan Vertonghen (Tottenham)

Four goals and three assists is a great return from Tottenham's Jan Vertonghen, who has established himself as one of the best defenders in the country in only his first season with the club since joining from Ajax in the summer. The 26-year-old has slotted into English football perfectly and looks like being a key player for Spurs for years to come.



12. Leighton Baines (Everton)

Baines has been one of the best defenders in the country for many years now, breathing down the neck of Ashley Cole for his place in the England team, and this may be his best season to date. The attacking left-back has been a stand-out performer for Everton, causing all kinds of problems for opposition teams with his marauding forward runs, long range shots and deliveries from crosses and set pieces. The 28-year-old may even have earned himself a summer move to Manchester United, as manager David Moyes will be understandably keen to take one of his best players from Everton with him when he takes over at Old Trafford.



11. Rafael Da Silva (Manchester United)

Another defender who has had an excellent season and is deserving of some recognition is Manchester United right-back Rafael Da Silva. The 22-year-old struggled with inconsistency in his earlier years with the club but is now developing into a great talent. The Brazilian is now more reliable in defence, and providing more end product upfront as well, contributing 3 goals and 3 assists this season. Two of his goals were absolute stunners as well, one against Liverpool at Anfield, and one at Queens Park Rangers. Rafael can consider himself unlucky not to be a PFA Player of the Year candidate this season.



10. Michael Carrick (Manchester United)

The Manchester United midfielder was a surprise name for some among the PFA Player of the Year candidates, but the midfield metronome played a crucial part in United's title win this season with his solid but unspectacular role in Sir Alex Ferguson's midfield. The 31-year-old could now find himself back in the England team as he has shown himself to be an important player in one of the best teams in Europe. His passing ability is envied by many of his English colleagues, and he sticks to his job well, allowing other players to shine.



9. Marouane Fellaini (Everton)

The commanding Belgian midfielder played a slightly more attacking role for Everton this season, and opened his campaign with a superb individual performance against Manchester United, scoring the winning goal and terrorizing their back line throughout. This would go on to set the tone for his season, which he finished with 11 goals and 5 assists - not bad for a converted defensive midfielder. The 25-year-old has certainly been a stand-out performer for the Toffees alongside Leighton Baines and is another player said to be on David Moyes' wish list when he leaves the club to take over at Manchester United next season. Arsenal and Chelsea are also keen on him, and it would be no surprise to see a number of clubs looking to activate his minimum release fee clause of around £25million.



8. Steven Gerrard (Liverpool)

The 32-year-old has shown that he's still got it this season, with some memorable performances for Liverpool. Gerrard has shone in Brendan Rodgers' new setup at the club, contributing 9 goals and 9 assists and showing himself to still be the leader and inspiration for this team. His fantastic dipping half volley away at Manchester City is certainly a contender for goal of the season, as he has confirmed he remains one of the best players in the country.



7. Christian Benteke (Aston Villa)

Behind big names like Robin van Persie, Luis Suarez and Gareth Bale in this season's Premier League goalscoring charts is Aston Villa's Christian Benteke. The young Belgian was virtually unheard of before this season, but now looks like one of the signings of the summer, slotting in seamlessly to Premier League life, scoring 19 goals and providing 4 assists. The strong and skillful forward has been a real handful for defences up and down the country and will no doubt earn a move to a bigger club this summer, as much as Villa will want to keep him. Still, they will surely make a very healthy profit on the £7million they spent to sign him from Genk, as he will now be worth around £20million or more as the likes of Arsenal, Tottenham and Borussia Dortmund pursue his signature.



6. Santi Cazorla (Arsenal)

An excellent debut season for the talented Spaniard signed by Arsenal from Malaga in the summer. The 28-year-old quickly established himself as the heart of the Arsenal team, showing great skill and creativity from a variety of attacking midfield positions. His 12 goals and 11 assists make him one of the stand-out performers this season, and have helped the Gunners to a crucial fourth place finish.





5. Juan Mata (Chelsea)

His first season was good, and his second was even better. Juan Mata is really showing himself to be one of the best players in the Premier League and perhaps the world with his incredible contribution of goals and assists from midfield. The 25-year-old lit up the league this season particularly in the early stages of the campaign when Chelsea looked like favourites for the title, and was another richly deserved Chelsea representative on the list of nominations for the PFA Player of the Year award. The former Valencia man finished with 12 goals and 12 assists in the league, and is a joy to watch week in, week out.



4. Michu (Swansea City)

An incredible piece of business by Swansea manager Michael Laudrup, Michu has been a revelation in the Premier League this season, scoring 18 goals and providing 2 assists after arriving from Rayo Vallecano for just £2million in the summer. The talented forward has scored a variety of goals for the Swans, including a famous double late on to seal a memorable win at the Emirates Stadium against Arsenal. This bargain buy has now caught the attention of a number of bigger clubs and could move for a very healthy profit in this summer's transfer window, after showing himself to be one of the most accomplished finishers in the country. A call up to the Spanish national team surely beckons as well for the 27-year-old.



3. Luis Suarez (Liverpool)

Second only to Robin van Persie in the scoring charts, Luis Suarez has had a fantastic season for Liverpool this year, and would surely have scored even more if not for his suspension meaning he missed the final few games of the campaign. Unfortunately for him, his controversial bite on Chelsea's Branislav Ivanovic has taken some of the gloss off a memorable season for the talented Uruguayan, who has shown tremendous ability in not only the quantity, but the quality of his goals. One of the most entertaining attackers in the league, without a doubt, and hopefully one who can improve next season and put aside his behavioural problems. Juventus and Bayern Munich are now being linked with him, and the Reds will probably have to get used to increased interest in their star player.



2. Robin van Persie (Manchester United)

A few eyebrows were raised when Robin van Persie made the controversial move from Arsenal to rivals Manchester United, not least by many United fans who questioned his injury record and whether he may have been something of a one-season wonder last term. However, the Dutchman has proved a fantastic signing and has topped the Premier League's goalscoring charts for the second season in a row with his new club. A hat trick of the highest quality sealed his side's title triumph against Aston Villa, and he has shown himself to be one of the best goal scorers in the game, looking unstoppable from a variety of angles with his powerful and deadly left foot.



1. Gareth Bale (Tottenham)

What a year it's been for Gareth Bale. The Welsh winger now often occupies a more central role in Andre Villas-Boas' new-look side, and this has proved a masterstroke by the Portuguese manager. Bale has scored 21 goals and provided 4 assists in this new position, and looks better with every passing game as he makes fools out of opposition defenders with his pace and dribbling skills. The 23-year-old could have a goal of the season list all to himself, and ended the campaign with another long range stunner against Sunderland, though it cruelly did not secure Champions League qualification for Spurs. Real Madrid are said to be chasing him this summer, and could offer as much as £65million for the Premier League's best player, as voted for by his peers and by the football writers.

]]> The top 20 best players of the 2012/13 Premier League season.

Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts



20. Theo Walcott (Arsenal)

This has undoubtedly been Theo Walcott's best season for Arsenal, with 14 goals and 10 assists in the league to help fire the Gunners to fourth place. He was really the in-form player in the country at the start of the season, with a number of man of the match displays against Tottenham and Newcastle earning him a new contract with the club.





19. Rickie Lambert (Southampton)

Along with Frank Lampard, Southampton striker Rickie Lambert is the joint top English goal scorer in the Premier League this season with 15 goals. However, the 31-year-old's fine displays seem unlikely to earn himself an England call up, which is harsh considering his all-round impressive ability in the Saints' passing and attack-minded game. Not bad at all considering it's his first ever season in the top flight.





18. Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)

It's hardly been a vintage season from Wayne Rooney, but the 27-year-old is still up there with the best players in the country, showing his quality to provide 12 goals and 10 assists for Manchester United. However, his time at Old Trafford may be up after the England star submitted a transfer request. United's loss will be someone else's gain, and the rush of clubs queuing up to sign him shows how valuable a player he can still be if used properly.



17. Romelu Lukaku (West Brom)

The Belgian striker has really impressed on loan at West Brom from Chelsea this season, scoring 17 league goals for the Baggies as they enjoyed an eighth place finish. The 20-year-old is certainly one of the best young players in the league, and deserves a chance at Stamford Bridge next season, though another spell on loan seems most likely. He bid farewell to the Hawthorns with a fantastic hat trick against Manchester United on the final day of the season.



16. Frank Lampard (Chelsea)

Despite his advancing years, Frank Lampard has shown his quality this season, particularly in the latter half of the campaign, scoring some crucial goals to take him to the top of the club's all-time scoring charts and earn himself a much-deserved new contract. The 34-year-old has scored 15 times for the Blues and will still be around for at least one more year, which is bad news for the rest of the teams in the Premier League.





15. Simon Mignolet (Sunderland)

Despite Sunderland's poor season, Belgian goalkeeper Simon Mignolet has been a real stand-out performer for the Black Cats and arguably the best 'keeper in the Premier League this season. His eye-catching saves have caught the attention of the likes of Arsenal and Napoli, who are both keen to sign new goalkeepers this summer. He has helped keep Sunderland from dropping down to the Championship, but his strong displays will surely mean he leaves the club for bigger things in the transfer window.



14. Eden Hazard (Chelsea)

One of many talented Belgians in the Premier League at the moment, Eden Hazard was an exciting arrival to Chelsea last summer when he joined for £27million from French side Lille. The 22-year-old settled immediately, getting off to a flier with one goal and five assists in Chelsea's opening three games. He has finished the season with 9 goals and 11 assists in the league, and was a deserved nominee for PFA Player of the Year, and he certainly looks like he could be a future winner of the award, as well as of plenty of silverware with the Blues.





13. Jan Vertonghen (Tottenham)

Four goals and three assists is a great return from Tottenham's Jan Vertonghen, who has established himself as one of the best defenders in the country in only his first season with the club since joining from Ajax in the summer. The 26-year-old has slotted into English football perfectly and looks like being a key player for Spurs for years to come.



12. Leighton Baines (Everton)

Baines has been one of the best defenders in the country for many years now, breathing down the neck of Ashley Cole for his place in the England team, and this may be his best season to date. The attacking left-back has been a stand-out performer for Everton, causing all kinds of problems for opposition teams with his marauding forward runs, long range shots and deliveries from crosses and set pieces. The 28-year-old may even have earned himself a summer move to Manchester United, as manager David Moyes will be understandably keen to take one of his best players from Everton with him when he takes over at Old Trafford.



11. Rafael Da Silva (Manchester United)

Another defender who has had an excellent season and is deserving of some recognition is Manchester United right-back Rafael Da Silva. The 22-year-old struggled with inconsistency in his earlier years with the club but is now developing into a great talent. The Brazilian is now more reliable in defence, and providing more end product upfront as well, contributing 3 goals and 3 assists this season. Two of his goals were absolute stunners as well, one against Liverpool at Anfield, and one at Queens Park Rangers. Rafael can consider himself unlucky not to be a PFA Player of the Year candidate this season.



10. Michael Carrick (Manchester United)

The Manchester United midfielder was a surprise name for some among the PFA Player of the Year candidates, but the midfield metronome played a crucial part in United's title win this season with his solid but unspectacular role in Sir Alex Ferguson's midfield. The 31-year-old could now find himself back in the England team as he has shown himself to be an important player in one of the best teams in Europe. His passing ability is envied by many of his English colleagues, and he sticks to his job well, allowing other players to shine.



9. Marouane Fellaini (Everton)

The commanding Belgian midfielder played a slightly more attacking role for Everton this season, and opened his campaign with a superb individual performance against Manchester United, scoring the winning goal and terrorizing their back line throughout. This would go on to set the tone for his season, which he finished with 11 goals and 5 assists - not bad for a converted defensive midfielder. The 25-year-old has certainly been a stand-out performer for the Toffees alongside Leighton Baines and is another player said to be on David Moyes' wish list when he leaves the club to take over at Manchester United next season. Arsenal and Chelsea are also keen on him, and it would be no surprise to see a number of clubs looking to activate his minimum release fee clause of around £25million.



8. Steven Gerrard (Liverpool)

The 32-year-old has shown that he's still got it this season, with some memorable performances for Liverpool. Gerrard has shone in Brendan Rodgers' new setup at the club, contributing 9 goals and 9 assists and showing himself to still be the leader and inspiration for this team. His fantastic dipping half volley away at Manchester City is certainly a contender for goal of the season, as he has confirmed he remains one of the best players in the country.



7. Christian Benteke (Aston Villa)

Behind big names like Robin van Persie, Luis Suarez and Gareth Bale in this season's Premier League goalscoring charts is Aston Villa's Christian Benteke. The young Belgian was virtually unheard of before this season, but now looks like one of the signings of the summer, slotting in seamlessly to Premier League life, scoring 19 goals and providing 4 assists. The strong and skillful forward has been a real handful for defences up and down the country and will no doubt earn a move to a bigger club this summer, as much as Villa will want to keep him. Still, they will surely make a very healthy profit on the £7million they spent to sign him from Genk, as he will now be worth around £20million or more as the likes of Arsenal, Tottenham and Borussia Dortmund pursue his signature.



6. Santi Cazorla (Arsenal)

An excellent debut season for the talented Spaniard signed by Arsenal from Malaga in the summer. The 28-year-old quickly established himself as the heart of the Arsenal team, showing great skill and creativity from a variety of attacking midfield positions. His 12 goals and 11 assists make him one of the stand-out performers this season, and have helped the Gunners to a crucial fourth place finish.





5. Juan Mata (Chelsea)

His first season was good, and his second was even better. Juan Mata is really showing himself to be one of the best players in the Premier League and perhaps the world with his incredible contribution of goals and assists from midfield. The 25-year-old lit up the league this season particularly in the early stages of the campaign when Chelsea looked like favourites for the title, and was another richly deserved Chelsea representative on the list of nominations for the PFA Player of the Year award. The former Valencia man finished with 12 goals and 12 assists in the league, and is a joy to watch week in, week out.



4. Michu (Swansea City)

An incredible piece of business by Swansea manager Michael Laudrup, Michu has been a revelation in the Premier League this season, scoring 18 goals and providing 2 assists after arriving from Rayo Vallecano for just £2million in the summer. The talented forward has scored a variety of goals for the Swans, including a famous double late on to seal a memorable win at the Emirates Stadium against Arsenal. This bargain buy has now caught the attention of a number of bigger clubs and could move for a very healthy profit in this summer's transfer window, after showing himself to be one of the most accomplished finishers in the country. A call up to the Spanish national team surely beckons as well for the 27-year-old.



3. Luis Suarez (Liverpool)

Second only to Robin van Persie in the scoring charts, Luis Suarez has had a fantastic season for Liverpool this year, and would surely have scored even more if not for his suspension meaning he missed the final few games of the campaign. Unfortunately for him, his controversial bite on Chelsea's Branislav Ivanovic has taken some of the gloss off a memorable season for the talented Uruguayan, who has shown tremendous ability in not only the quantity, but the quality of his goals. One of the most entertaining attackers in the league, without a doubt, and hopefully one who can improve next season and put aside his behavioural problems. Juventus and Bayern Munich are now being linked with him, and the Reds will probably have to get used to increased interest in their star player.



2. Robin van Persie (Manchester United)

A few eyebrows were raised when Robin van Persie made the controversial move from Arsenal to rivals Manchester United, not least by many United fans who questioned his injury record and whether he may have been something of a one-season wonder last term. However, the Dutchman has proved a fantastic signing and has topped the Premier League's goalscoring charts for the second season in a row with his new club. A hat trick of the highest quality sealed his side's title triumph against Aston Villa, and he has shown himself to be one of the best goal scorers in the game, looking unstoppable from a variety of angles with his powerful and deadly left foot.



1. Gareth Bale (Tottenham)

What a year it's been for Gareth Bale. The Welsh winger now often occupies a more central role in Andre Villas-Boas' new-look side, and this has proved a masterstroke by the Portuguese manager. Bale has scored 21 goals and provided 4 assists in this new position, and looks better with every passing game as he makes fools out of opposition defenders with his pace and dribbling skills. The 23-year-old could have a goal of the season list all to himself, and ended the campaign with another long range stunner against Sunderland, though it cruelly did not secure Champions League qualification for Spurs. Real Madrid are said to be chasing him this summer, and could offer as much as £65million for the Premier League's best player, as voted for by his peers and by the football writers.

]]> http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/20/top-20-best-premier-league-players-of-201213/feed/ 0 Mark BrusMon, 20 May 13 23:59:57 +0000The top 20 best players of the 2012/13 Premier League season. http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/19/top-100-summer-transfer-window-targets/ http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/19/top-100-summer-transfer-window-targets/#comments Sun, 19 May 2013 21:45:10 +0000 Mark Brus http://www.caughtoffside.com/?p=145654 Top 100 players who are being targeted for moves in this summer's transfer window.

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100. Julio Cesar (Queens Park Rangers)



The veteran Brazilian goalkeeper is likely to be on the move again this summer despite only arriving at QPR from Inter Milan a year ago. Arsenal are on the lookout for a goalkeeper and may turn to Cesar if they cannot land some of their other options. A return to Brazil has also been mooted for the 33-year-old, who will surely depart Loftus Road following Rangers' relegation from the Premier League, as his manager Harry Redknapp has admitted he is too good for the Championship. Perhaps some good news at last for Rob Green!

99. Alvaro Negredo (Sevilla)



The Spanish international striker came close to joining Everton in January, and has admitted a liking for English football. Arsenal and Tottenham may move for him this summer as both are keen to sign strikers, but the 27-year-old could be persuaded to stay in Spain as Atletico Madrid are reportedly eyeing him up as a replacement for Radamel Falcao if he leaves. After showing his quality with 81 goals in the last four years with Sevilla, he may feel he has earned a chance at a bigger club next season.

98. Adil Rami (Valencia)



One of the most solid defenders in Spain, Adil Rami is on the lookout for a move to a bigger club this summer to boost his chances of a starting place in France's squad for the 2014 World Cup. Arsenal and Manchester United are said to be the frontrunners for his signature, and he would certainly be a bargain at Valencia's supposed asking price of just £10million.

97. Andreas Weimann (Aston Villa)



The young Austrian has been something of a revelation for Aston Villa this season, with some eye-catching displays to help Paul Lambert's side survive relegation. The attacking midfielder, who can also play upfront, has got himself on Liverpool's radar with his performances and his 12 goals in all competitions. His agent has admitted he is unlikely to stay at Villa Park, but wants a move to another Premier League club.

96. Aleksandar Kolarov (Manchester City)



The £16million signing from Lazio has not really looked the part for City, and could be heading back to Serie A this summer with champions Juventus showing an interest in the left-back. With City offering Gael Clichy a four-year contract, it is clear that he has become first choice on the left side of defence, as Kolarov has not shown the same defensive discipline in that role, possibly operating better as a wing back, which would suit Juventus' 3-5-2 formation.

95. Bacary Sagna (Arsenal)



Sagna's six-year stay with Arsenal could be coming to an end, as the right-back has reportedly refused to sign a new contract. PSG have shown the strongest interest in the 30-year-old, and he has not ruled out a move to the French giants. Monaco are also said to be interested, and Arsenal will surely choose to sell him this summer rather than risk losing him on a free next season - a similarly sticky situation to the one they found themselves in with Robin van Persie last year.

94. Dimitar Berbatov (Fulham)



The Bulgarian forward only joined Fulham from Manchester United last summer, but is reportedly unhappy at Craven Cottage already. The 32-year-old has had a good season for Martin Jol's side, and his displays have attracted the interest of big-spending Turkish giants Galatasaray, who will to carry on their ambitious January spending which saw big names such as Wesley Sneijder and Didier Drogba join the club. Fulham may decide to take the reasonable £5million offer for an ageing player and reinvest in their squad to improve their displays next season.

93. Anders Lindegaard (Manchester United)



West Ham are said to be monitoring the situation of Manchester United's backup goalkeeper Anders Lindegaard. The 29-year-old is unlikely to break past David de Gea in the pecking order, and could be tempted by the Hammers' offer of first team football.

92. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (St Etienne)



This highly rated young forward has caught the eye of many top clubs with his performances for St Etienne this season. The 23-year-old has scored 20 goals in Ligue 1 and is being watched by Premier League trio Arsenal, Tottenham and Newcastle. Though the player himself has said he dreams of playing for Real Madrid.

91. Arjen Robben (Bayern Munich)



The former Chelsea winger has been a key player for Bayern Munich over the last few years, but may be on the way out this summer after falling down the club's pecking order. However, his talents are still admired by Manchester City, who are being tipped to make a move for the speedy Dutchman.

90. Sergi Roberto (Barcelona)



This young Barcelona midfielder is reportedly holding talks over a summer switch to Tottenham, as he does not fancy his chances of breaking past the likes of Xavi and Iniesta into Barca's vastly talented midfield.

89. Ashley Williams (Swansea City)



The Swansea captain has had another impressive season, helping his team to glory in the Capital One Cup. Arsenal and Liverpool are showing a strong interest as they look to add a centre-back to their squads this summer, and have been told by Swansea that they will have to pay £10million for the Welshman.

88. Tim Krul (Newcastle)



The talented Dutch shot stopper is being tipped to leave St James' Park this summer after Newcastle have had a poor season fighting relegation. Roma are said to be leading the way for the 25-year-old, and AC Milan are also admirers of his. This will come as a blow to Alan Pardew, as he will also lose backup 'keeper Steve Harper, who has made the decision to retire at the end of the season.

87. Angelo Ogbonna (Torino)



A whole host of clubs have been watching Angelo Ogbonna of Torino. The talented 24-year-old centre-back could be approached by any one of Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool or AC Milan this summer, as a big move surely beckons for the Italian international. Reports suggest he would cost around £17million.

86. Fernandinho (Shakhtar Donetsk)



The Brazilian midfielder has pleaded for Shakhtar Donetsk to lower their asking price so that he can move to Manchester City, who have made him one of their main targets for this summer's transfer window. At the moment he could cost around £42.5million due to the release clause in his contract, but he is a top talent who could improve City's midfield for the title race next season.

85. Leighton Baines (Everton)



With Everton manager David Moyes leaving the club to join Manchester United, he is apparently keen to take left-back Leighton Baines with him. The former Wigan man has been a stand-out performer at Goodison Park this year and would be an upgrade on Patrice Evra in United's defence. Everton will be determined not to lose him, but he could go for around £15-20million.

84. Dani Alves (Barcelona)



The Brazilian right-back has been a world class player over the last few years at Barcelona, though his form has dipped this season. He has been linked with a summer move to PSG, and the Catlans are willing to sell the player as they make some changes to their inconsistent squad, which has been unconvincing despite their La Liga title win.

83. Alvaro Pereira (Inter Milan)



Former Porto left-back Alvaro Pereira says he will stay and fight for his place at Inter Milan, but the Serie A club may decide they'd rather let him go if interest from Tottenham and his old boss Andre Villas-Boas continues. Spurs are keen to recruit a new player to replace Benoit Assou-Ekotto and Danny Rose, who are unlikely to be kept at the club for next season.

82. Gervinho (Arsenal)



The Ivorian forward is somehow a target for Turkish giants Galatasaray, who are willing to pay an incredible £12million for the 25-year-old who has been such a flop for Arsenal. With just eight league goals in two seasons, the former Lille man does not look like Premier League quality at all, often getting himself into a muddle with his wayward dribbling and missing easy chances when they are presented to him. Arsenal will be hoping to take the money and run if Galatasaray really rate him.

81. Florian Thauvin (Lille)



This exciting 20-year-old attacking midfielder is attracting a lot of interest after his displays this season for Bastia, where he has been on loan. Arsenal, Chelsea and Newcastle are all said to have made enquiries about him in January and could move for him again as they look to strengthen their squads this summer.

80. Younes Belhanda (Montpellier)



Arsenal and Spurs target Younes Belhanda will leave Montpellier this summer, his club have confirmed. The talented 23-year-old has been a key player for the French side over the last couple of years and is said to be keen on a new challenge, with a particular liking for English football. Newcastle are also likely to show an interest given their recent liking for players from France, and Belhanda could be one of the bargains of the summer with just an £8million asking price from Montpellier.

79. Ilkay Gundogan (Borussia Dortmund)



One of many players impressing in the Bundesliga at the moment, Ilkay Gundogan's displays for Borussia Dortmund have attracted a lot of interest from the likes of Arsenal, Manchester United and Barcelona. The 22-year-old is a skillful defensive midfielder who could add a lot of quality to any of those sides' squads. United appear to be leading the way for his signature, as they look to improve on their current options in the middle of the park, which will be weakened with Paul Scholes' retirement and possible departure of Anderson.

78. Esteban Granero (Queens Park Rangers)



Esteban Granero has not had the best of seasons at QPR, despite looking like a quality signing from Real Madrid. The team have struggled as a whole this season, finding themselves surprisingly relegated when they were expected to aim for a top half finish after all the money they spent. Granero is one of many big-name flops, scoring just one goal and providing just one assist. The 25-year-old is still highly rated however, and is reportedly a target for Serie A side Fiorentina.

77. Adem Ljajic (Fiorentina)



Chelsea are said to be leading the chase for Fiorentina's Adem Ljajic, one of the best young players in Serie A. The talented 21-year-old was once a target for Manchester United when he was younger, though a move fell through. He is now hot property after developing into a fine player in Italy, and will also attract interest from Arsenal and Manchester City this summer. With 8 goals and 8 assists for La Viola in Serie A, imagine what he could do in one of the top Premier League sides.

76. Heung-Min Son (Hamburg)



One of the best young players in the Bundesliga, Hamburg forward Heung-Min Son is much in demand this summer, with Arsenal, Tottenham and Borussia Dortmund all said to be vying for his signature. Hamburg have recently said they are confident of keeping him as they have not yet received any bids for the skillful 20-year-old, but it is surely only a matter of time before the young South Korean moves on to bigger things.

75. Hernanes (Lazio)



Manchester City are said to be hot on the heals of Lazio's Brazilian star Hernanes, and the player himself has welcomed their interest. The 27-year-old has a great reputation after moving to Serie A a few years ago, perhaps known best for his powerful long range shots, as well as his overall passing and playmaking abilities from the middle of the park. City would be lucky to have him as he could form a great midfield partnership with Yaya Toure and help get them back on track for a title challenge next season.

74. Pepe Reina (Liverpool)



Barcelona have apparently identified Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina as a top priority target this summer, as they expect Victor Valdes to leave the club. Valdes himself could make his way to the Premier League, while Reina could return to the club where he started his career. The 30-year-old's departure may be a blessing in disguise for Reds boss Brendan Rodgers, as Reina has not been at his best for a couple of years now, and could be improved on. Liverpool could make some decent money from his sale and get someone more reliable between the posts for next season.

73. Michel Vorm (Swansea City)



Liverpool could in fact target Swansea City's Michel Vorm if Reina leaves. The Dutch shot stopper is also another target for Barcelona, but he may be keen to reunite with Brendan Rodgers at Liverpool, after it was he that brought him to the Premier League in his time at Swansea. The 29-year-old is widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the country at the moment and is also a target for Arsenal, who are looking out for a new goalkeeper to replace or at least challenge the off-form Wojciech Szczesny for his place in the team.

72. Mohamed Diame (West Ham)



West Ham could lose Mohamed Diame this summer, just one season after they signed the Senegalese midfielder from Wigan. The 25-year-old has had an excellent season for the Hammers, and was reportedly close to joining Arsenal or Tottenham in January. The move never materialised, but his £3.5million minimum release fee clause is likely to see the North London pair sniffing around again in the summer transfer window. Both clubs could do with reinforcements in the defensive midfield position, as Arsenal are still to find a suitable replacement for Alex Song, who left for Barcelona last summer. Tottenham could also do with strengthening in that area, as Sandro and Scott Parker have had lengthy spells out with injury this season. Parker has also been linked with a move to relegated QPR. At this kind of price, a talent like Diame is unlikely to remain at West Ham.

71. Laurent Koscielny (Arsenal)



The talented French centre-back is reportedly a target for Pep Guardiola, who will be taking over as manager of Bayern Munich next season. The 27-year-old has proved a good find by Arsene Wenger since joining as a relative unknown from Lorient in 2010, establishing himself as one of the club's best defenders. Now valued at around £20million, he would be a good addition to this strong Bayern side, though Wenger will be hoping not to lose another important and experienced member of his squad this summer. Barcelona have also been linked, as they look to strengthen in central defence after a season of injuries and poor form from Carles Puyol and Gerard Pique.

70. Tom Ince (Blackpool)



This exciting young winger is earning rave reviews after his performances in the Championship, and is wanted by his old club Liverpool, as well as Tottenham and Inter Milan. Blackpool are keen to tie down the 21-year-old to a new contract, though it seems unlikely that they will be able to fight off so much interest in their star player. Having started his career at Anfield, he could be a good addition to a squad lacking in talented wingers at the moment, and looks good value at around £7million. The son of former England captain Paul Ince is arguably a better player than Manchester United-bound Wilfried Zaha, who earned his move to Old Trafford in January after his displays for Crystal Palace.

69. Angel Di Maria (Real Madrid)



Real Madrid are planning something of a summer clear-out, and Angel Di Maria could be one to go. The talented Argentine has not had his best season this year, and may fall further down the pecking order with some of the big names that are expected to join at the Bernebeu. Manchester United are rumoured to be interested, with their need for wingers to improve on the likes of Nani and Ashley Young, and AC Milan are also said to be considering a move. He would apparently be available for around £15million and could do with a move to get his promising career back on track.

68. Marouane Fellaini (Everton)



Another player said to be leaving alongside David Moyes for Manchester United, the talented Belgian has apparently welcomed the interest from Old Trafford. Everton will be keen not to lose him as well as Leighton Baines, but the towering midfielder has been another stand-out performer this year and has expressed a desire to play in the Champions League. Chelsea and Arsenal have also been linked with him, and he has a minimum release fee clause of around £25million, which would be decent money for a player who guarantees you goals, assists, an aerial threat and good defensive work in midfield. He is a very influential player and looks to have outgrown Everton at this stage in his career.

67. Asmir Begovic (Stoke City)



The Stoke City goalkeeper has arguably been their best player this season, in a disappointing campaign for the Potters in which they fought against relegation. The Bosnian shot stopper is now on the radar of the likes of Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal. The 25-year-old would cost around £15million and prove a good option for any of those sides. He has said he is happy at Stoke, but with manager Tony Pulis already bringing in young goalkeeper Jack Butland from Birmingham City in the summer, he may be expecting Begovic to be sold, and they may not feel they are able to turn down that kind of money if the offers come in.

66. Hatem Ben Arfa (Newcastle)



After a poor season for Newcastle, it would be no surprise to see a number of key players depart, and Hatem Ben Arfa is certainly one of them. On his day the exciting French winger can win games on his own with remarkable dribbling skills and powerful long range shots. Still only 26, he would be a good investment for any top club and supposedly already has offers from Tottenham and Liverpool, with PSG also monitoring his situation. The one problem with the former Marseille star is that he has been plagued by injuries during his time in England, but it's no surprise to see top clubs showing an interest given what he can do if he stays fit. His absence this season has played a big part in Newcastle's worsening fortunes.

65. Kevin De Bruyne (Chelsea)



This talented Chelsea youngster has really put himself in the shop window with his displays on loan at Bundesliga side Werder Bremen this season. The Belgian still seems unlikely to force his way into the Chelsea team, so will reportedly attract a bid from Borussia Dotmund. Jurgen Klopp's side see the 21-year-old as a good replacement for Bayern Munich-bound Mario Goetze, which is some compliment. Bayer Leverkusen may also ask for him in return for long-time Blues target Andre Schurrle, though many Bundesliga fans cannot understand why Chelsea don't want to keep him.

64. Lukas Podolski (Arsenal)



Lukas Podolski has had a decent start to life in English football, but due to some fitness problems and recent omissions from the team, it has been suggested that he could leave the club just one season after joining from Cologne. Atletico Madrid and Juventus have been linked with the German forward, but the strongest interest seems to be coming from Galatasaray, who could make a double swoop on Arsenal as they also look to sign Gervinho from the Gunners. They will offer £12million for the 27-year-old, and Arsenal don't have a great recent track record of keeping their big names at the club.

63. Micah Richards (Manchester City)



Micah Richards has been unfortunate to find himself out of the Manchester City team this season, after some problems with injuries and the fine form of Pablo Zabaleta. Now 24, the talented right-back needs regular first team football if he has any hope of getting back into the England squad, and it is said that Liverpool and Arsenal may come in for him this summer. Richards can also play at centre-back and deserves a chance to be playing regularly at a top club, though a high asking price of £15million may put some clubs off, due to his recent lack of regular action.

62. Burak Yilmaz (Galatasaray)



This Turkish striker has shown himself to be something of a goal machine this season for Galatasaray, in both the league and the Champions League. Arsenal and Liverpool are known to be looking for strikers this summer and have been linked with the 27-year-old, as have Manchester United and Napoli. Galatasaray have made it clear they will expect around £15million for their star striker, though they have also admitted that they don't hold out much hope of keeping him. However, with plenty of summer spending plans of their own, they might not miss him so much.

61. Aaron Lennon (Tottenham)



The speedy Spurs winger has never quite looked like becoming the world class talent that he looked like as a youngster in his days at Leeds. The 26-year-old has been at White Hart Lane for most of his career now, but could be subject to a summer bid from Serie A giants Inter Milan. Spurs may feel it is time for the England international to move on while they pursue other targets, and Lennon could also do with a new challenge in Italy, and certainly improve this Inter side that is struggling so much at the moment.

60. Brad Guzan (Aston Villa)



West Ham's search for a goalkeeper could see them approach Aston Villa for Brad Guzan. The Hammers, as already mentioned, are keen on Manchester United's backup 'keeper Anders Lindegaard, but with the Danish shot stopper supposedly happy to stay at Old Trafford, Guzan could be a good second choice. The American has been in fine form for Villa this season after replacing Shay Given as first choice at Villa Park. the 28-year-old could be sold at a very healthy profit for Villa, now valued at around £5million - not bad for a player that cost £600,000 when he was signed from MLS side Chivas in 2008.

59. Jesus Navas (Sevilla)



The Sevilla winger has been highly rated since a young age, but has spent his entire career with his boyhood club due to suffering from chronic homesickness, which also affects him when he travels with the Spanish national team. However, he continues to attract interest from top clubs as there is no doubting his quality. The skillful winger is wanted by Manchester City and Borussia Dortmund, as both sides hope to strengthen their attacking midfield options.

58. Koke (Atletico Madrid)



This talented young Atletico Madrid playmaker is one of many in this generation of impressive Spanish midfielders, and has previously been linked with Manchester United and Arsenal. Roma are now rumoured to be stepping up their interest, and other big clubs may soon follow for a 21-year-old who surely has a great future in the game.

57. Lukasz Piszczek (Borussia Dortmund)



With Bacary Sagna likely to leave Arsenal, the Gunners have been linked with Borussia Dortmund's Polish right-back Lukasz Piszczek. The 27-year-old has emerged as a key performer for both club and country in recent years, combining great defensive work with a high work rate and ability to get forward. Piszczek won't come cheap, but he could actually be a significant improvement on Sagna for Arsenal, as the Frenchman has not been at his best this season and is surely past his peak at the age of 30. Chelsea have also watched him in the past and with a number of players likely to leave Dortmund this summer, there could be a few clubs who try their luck with Piszczek.

56. Aymen Abdennour (Toulouse)



Arsenal, Liverpool and Barcelona have all watched this highly rated Ligue 1 defender in recent months, and it now seems Liverpool will step up their interest and table a £6million bid for the Tunisian international. The versatile 23-year-old defender can play both centre-back and left-back, and would be a very useful addition to any of these clubs, due to their current defensive problems. He has certainly established himself as one of the best defenders in the French league, and interest in him is no surprise.

55. Romelu Lukaku (Chelsea)



Romelu Lukaku will be a wanted man this summer, even if it is only on loan. The young Belgian has been in great form on loan at West Brom from Chelsea, but it seems he still won't quite work his way into the Blues' starting lineup next season. West Ham appear to be leading the chase for the talented 19-year-old, who will certainly help the club deal with the loss of Andy Carroll if they don't manage to sign him permanently. Lukaku's form has also attracted interest from Swansea, Fulham and even Italian giants Juventus, but as with Kevin De Bruyne it's hard to understand why Chelsea can't find a use for him - he would surely be an improvement on Fernando Torres and Demba Ba.

54. Luke Shaw (Southampton)



It's incredible to think Luke Shaw is only 17 and playing his first season in the Southampton first team. The young left-back has slotted in seamlessly for the Saints in the Premier League this season, and looks to be the latest in the line of great players produced by the academy at St Mary's, along with Gareth Bale, Theo Walcott and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. He has played with great maturity in defence this season, and also looks a skillful attacker going forward. Chelsea and Tottenham are the main clubs that seem to be in for him, and despite saying he's a Chelsea fan, he is said to be torn between the two options. Arsenal have also shown an interest, and it looks like Southampton will have a big job on their hands fighting off interest in their young prodigy this summer.

53. Franco Di Santo (Wigan)



West Brom are keen to land Franco Di Santo from relegated Wigan. The 24-year-old is a free agent this summer after his deal at the DW Stadium is set to expire, and the Baggies will need a new striker as loan star Romelu Lukaku heads back to Chelsea. Shane Long could also leave the club, and want-away striker Peter Odemwingie will probably be shown the door after his antics in the January transfer window. This will leave Steve Clarke's side desperately short of options upfront and Di Santo has shown himself as a very capable Premier League player in the last couple of seasons with Wigan, despite their regular battles with relegation and their eventual drop this year.

52. Daniele De Rossi (Roma)



If Jose Mourinho rejoins Chelsea, he has reportedly made Roma midfielder Daniele De Rossi a prime target. The Blues could do with extra options in midfield and could land the 29-year-old for just £10million after he has had a relatively disappointing season in Serie A. He has been linked with moves to the Premier League before, with both Manchester United and Manchester City showing an interest, and this could finally be the year he leaves the club he's been with for his whole career.

51. Karim Benzema (Real Madrid)



Manchester United are known to be on the lookout for strikers this summer, and Karim Benzema could be available after falling down in the pecking order at Real Madrid. The talented French finisher still has an impressive record of 19 goals and 20 assists this season, and could surely reach world class form again if given the chance. Manchester United are currently being linked with a move for the France international who should cost around £30million.

50. Scott Sinclair (Manchester City)



Scott Sinclair's move from Swansea to Manchester City has been nothing short of a disaster this season, as the 24-year-old has hardly featured for Roberto Mancini's side. Mancini admitted he was unfair on him and didn't give him enough opportunities, but even with the Italian being sacked following his side's shock defeat to Wigan in the FA Cup final, City are sure to welcome offers for the unwanted winger. The most likely moves for him at the moment seem to be either a return to Swansea or to Liverpool where he would play under his old Swansea boss Brendan Rodgers.

49. Zlatan Ibrahimovic (PSG)



After a falling out with Leonardo at PSG, Zlatan Ibrahimovic could be set for a move back to Italy with Juventus, after just one season (and another league title in another country) in France. The talented but eccentric Swede has arguably shown the best form of his career in Serie A, originally with Juventus, and then Inter Milan and AC Milan. Juve are keen to sign some strikers this summer, and Ibrahimovic remains one of the best in the game, bringing success with him wherever he goes.

48. Thiago Alcantara (Barcelona)



Barcelona midfielder Thiago Alcantara could be a good option for a number of clubs this summer, as he remains a wasted talent at the Nou Camp. The 22-year-old is one of the club's brightest prospects, but he has been unfortunate to be around when such star names such as Xavi and Iniesta are always going to be picked ahead of him. Manchester United are on alert after hearing he could be sold, and he has been previously linked with the likes of Manchester City and Arsenal. He's certainly too good to be on the bench for much longer, so is sure to be on the move this summer.

47. Yohan Cabaye (Newcastle)



Yohan Cabaye has really impressed since joining Newcastle from French side Lille for what now looks like a real bargain at just £4million, and was almost immediately linked with Arsenal. The talented playmaker could now be a £20million target for Manchester United as they seek a long-term replacement for the retiring Paul Scholes. The 27-year-old could also be tempted by a move away after a difficult season of fighting relegation with Alan Pardew's side.

46. Papiss Cisse (Newcastle)



Borussia Dortmund are on the lookout for a number of strikers this summer due to the inevitable loss of star man Robert Lewandowski, and Newcastle's Papiss Cisse is the latest to apparently be on their shortlist. The Senegalese forward made an explosive start to life in the Premier League last season with an incredible 13 goals in 14 games - including an absolute wonder-strike against Chelsea - but has struggled somewhat this time round, albeit in a team that has been worse overall this season. He could be tempted by a return to the Bundesliga, where he first made a name for himself with Freiburg.

45. Jackson Martinez (Porto)



Borussia Dortmund may also go head-t0-head with Liverpool for in-form Porto striker Jackson Martinez. The Colombian has had a great breakthrough season in Portugal, scoring an excellent 33 goals in 38 games in his first season with the club. Manchester United and Chelsea have also been linked, though they appear to have more pressing targets.

44. Nemanja Matic (Benfica)



This former Chelsea youngster has made a real name for himself at Benfica, impressing this season in his team's run to the Europa League final. Chelsea have been unsurprisingly linked with a return for the Serbian, though Manchester United are also keen on him to improve their midfield options this summer. He would supposedly cost around £45million, which may be a stumbling block in the deal. One of a few Benfica players who could be snapped up by bigger clubs in the upcoming transfer window.

43. Victor Valdes (Barcelona)



Barcelona goalkeeper Victor Valdes has confirmed his desire to leave Barcelona after a fantastic eleven years with the club. The Spaniard wants a new challenge and could be signed by any one of a number of interested parties. Arsenal are considering him as one of several options for a new goalkeeper, and Manchester United and PSG are also keen on the 31-year-old. His experience and history of winning things would be a great addition to any side's dressing room, and it's certainly Barca's loss. They are reportedly targeting the uninspiring Pepe Reina of Liverpool as a replacement.

42. Andre Schurrle (Bayer Leverkusen)



The signing of Andre Schurrle from Bayer Leverkusen to Chelsea looked like being a done deal not so long ago, though the move hasn't progressed from there. Still, the Blues are determined to land this long-standing target and add to their attacking midfield options next season. He should cost around £20million and looks worth every penny as another great prospect emerging from German football at the moment.

41. Callum McManaman (Wigan)



With Wigan relegated from the Premier League, a number of their best players are sure to leave for bigger clubs, and none have caught the eye more recently than Callum McManaman. The young winger played a great part in the club's miraculous FA Cup win and is now a target for Liverpool, though boss Roberto Martinez has pleaded with him to reject a move and continue his development with Wigan in the Championship. Not sure he'll listen to that particular piece of advice.

40. Loic Remy (Queens Park Rangers)



The January signing from Marseille has proved a hit in the Premier League, though his six goals in thirteen games have not been enough to keep Queens Park Rangers from avoiding relegation. The French striker was wanted by Arsenal and Newcastle as well in January, and they may move again this summer as he is sure to be available following Rangers' drop to the Championship. He apparently has a minimum release fee clause of £8million and Liverpool are also keen on him, though he has described Arsenal as a 'dream move'.

39. Joao Moutinho (Porto)



Joao Moutinho came close to joining his old Porto boss Andre Villas-Boas at Tottenham last summer, though a move didn't materialise in the final hours of the transfer window. Spurs are expected to rekindle their interest in the Portuguese playmaker, though he is also a target for big-spending Monaco, who may be more able to offer his £33million fee than Spurs are.

38. Alex Song (Barcelona)



Alex Song has had a tough time since joining Arsenal from Barcelona, which may come as no surprise. He had a good season for the Gunners last year, but he never exactly looked capable of dislodging Sergio Busquets in Barca's defensive midfield position. He is now understandably unhappy after a season on the bench and pining for a return to Arsenal. Arsene Wenger has ruled out a move, but he often likes to keep his cards close to his chest, and may be tempted to bring back a player he has so far failed to replace. Spurs and Manchester City have also been linked with the Cameroon international.

37. Phil Jagielka (Everton)



The 30-year-old has been a reliable performer for many years now at Everton, but is the third current player who is apparently being eyed up by David Moyes as he leaves the club for Manchester United. The Red Devils could perhaps do with defensive reinforcements due to the age of Rio Ferdinand and the injury record of Nemanja Vidic, but it remains to be seen if Moyes will indeed land all three of Baines, Fellaini and Jagielka, leaving his former employers in something of a mess.

36. Christian Eriksen (Ajax)



This exceptionally gifted young player has been on the books at Ajax for many years now, and attracted interest almost as soon as he became a first team regular. Surprisingly, he has remained with the club, but that surely won't be for much longer as Liverpool are supposedly stepping up their interest in the Dane. The 21-year-old has, however, told them to hurry up about making a bid or he will renew his deal with the Dutch giants.

35. John Terry (Chelsea)



This legendary Chelsea captain could be set for a shock exit from the club this summer after a frustrating season. The 32-year-old has often found himself on the bench with Rafael Benitez prefering David Luiz, Gary Cahill and even Branislav Ivanovic at centre-back. Galatasaray are showing a strong interest in the defender. The former England international may now feel it is time to leave Stamford Bridge for a new challenge, and join former team mate Didier Drogba in Turkey.

34. Emmanuel Adebayor (Tottenham)



It's been a strange career for Emmanuel Adebayor, who has gone from being a flop at Arsenal, to being great, to being a flop at Manchester City to being great on loan at Spurs, and then finally to being a flop once again after sealing a permanent move to White Hart Lane last summer. The frustrating Togolese forward has only managed to score five league goals this season, a very poor return, and could be shown the door at the end of the season with his old club Monaco lurking. The 29-year-old could be available for just £5million and may not be the best option for the big-spending French club, but their interest does seem genuine.

33. Cristian Tello (Barcelona)



Both Arsenal and Liverpool are reportedly keen on Barcelona starlet Cristian Tello. The 21-year-old is another talented youngster that has come through the club's youth system, and is unfortunate to find the likes of Lionel Messi and Pedro Rodriguez ahead of him. The skillful forward has a bright future and will want to be playing regularly soon, so may take up an offer from the Premier League, and will certainly be tempting with a minimum release fee clause of just £8million. This Spaniard could end up being one of the bargains of the summer and should fulfill his great potential if he gets a chance.

32. Fabio Coentrao (Real Madrid)



Another player who could be cleared out by Real Madrid this summer is left-back Fabio Coentrao. The talented Portuguese international has been in and out of the side at the Bernebeu this season, and could be a good signing for Tottenham, who see him as a possible new recruit at left-back with Benoit Assou-Ekotto and Danny Rose both likely to leave for Monaco and Sunderland respectively in the upcoming transfer window.

31. Kevin-Prince Boateng (AC Milan)



The former Spurs flop has gone on to become a great performer for Serie A side AC Milan, and is being linked with a move to Manchester City. This would be the latest move in an eventful career for the Ghanian international, who failed to impress as a youngster at Spurs and Borussia Dortmund before eventually catching Milan's eye when he was at Portsmouth. He is more mature and experienced now, and certainly ready to prove a big hit in the Premier League.

30. Mirko Vucinic (Juventus)



In what would be a slightly surprising signing, Manchester United could move for Juventus forward Mirko Vucinic to boost their strikeforce. The club are likely to have other targets, but remain fans of the Montenegro international who has been a regular goal scorer in Serie A for almost his entire career. He hasn't quite replicated his Roma form at Juventus, but he is still a talented forward capable of adding something to the Premier League champions. Juve are also quite happy to let him go, as they eye up a number of strikers this summer.

29. Nani (Manchester United)



It has been a highly disappointing year for Manchester United's Nani. Despite his side's title win, the Portuguese winger has not played any significant part, scoring just one goal and providing only two assists - a very poor return for an attacking player of his potential. The 26-year-old has been inconsistent and often frustrating in his time since joining from Sporting Lisbon, and is now surprisingly wanted by both Juventus and Real Madrid.

28. Javier Hernandez (Manchester United)



Javier Hernandez is another Manchester United squad player who is for some reason wanted by Juventus and Real Madrid. The Mexican has shown a great knack for finishing chances in his time at Old Trafford, but has not shown himself to be a very complete player, and has as a result fallen behind Danny Welbeck in the team's pecking order. Atletico Madrid have also been linked with the 24-year-old, who could be a good replacement for Radamel Falcao when he surely leaves Atletico this summer.

27. Andy Carroll (Liverpool)



West Ham are determined to keep loan star Andy Carroll on a permanent deal from Liverpool this summer, though they may not be able to pay the Reds' £17million asking price. Newcastle are also interested in bringing back their former player, who seemingly has no future at Anfield, just two years after the club paid a record £35million for him. Monaco have also been linked with a surprise move for the 24-year-old, and may be more able to meet Liverpool's estimations for him.

26. Sami Khedira (Real Madrid)



Jose Mourinho is reportedly planning to take German midfield enforcer Sami Khedira with him from Real Madrid to Chelsea this summer. The Portuguese coach initially signed the 26-year-old from Stuttgart when he took over at the Bernebeu and wants to do so again if he returns to Stamford Bridge. The Blues could do with a defensive midfielder of his kind, who would be an improvement on current options John Obi Mikel and Michael Essien.

25. Xabi Alonso (Real Madrid)



The former Liverpool midfielder could be set for a popular return to Anfield this summer from Real Madrid, though Chelsea are also interested. The 31-year-old playmaker would be a decent option for incoming Blues boss Mourinho if he fails to land Sami Khedira and Daniele De Rossi, and Liverpool could certainly do with adding his quality to their team, as they arguably never replaced him when he left the club in 2009. His raking passes and long range shots made him a hit in his first spell at the club, and they haven't enjoyed the same kind of success without him dictating the tempo in the heart of their team.

24. Carlos Tevez (Manchester City)



The controversial Manchester City striker has had an improved season this time round after finally seeming to resolve his differences with the management. However, he is still said to favour a move away from England, and Juventus and Monaco are ready to pounce for him this summer. The Argentine's talent will be missed in English football, but it may be time for him to move on and fulfill his potential somewhere where he'd be happier.

23. Edin Dzeko (Manchester City)



The Bosnian has only ever impressed in fits and starts for Manchester City since joining from Wolsburg in 2011, looking mostly like a flop who misses relatively easy chances. However, he was a lethal striker in his Bundesliga days and may be lured back there by Borussia Dortmund. He is also being watched by Serie A clubs Juventus and Fiorentina, though a move to Napoli in exchange for Edinson Cavani perhaps seems the most likely of the proposed deals.

22. Claudio Marchisio (Juventus)



The Italian midfielder has been at Juventus for his whole career, but could be on the move this summer as Manchester United see him as an ideal replacement for the retiring Paul Scholes. The hard-working box-to-box player has a good record of scoring goals from midfield and could certainly be a good option to fill that void.

21. Arturo Vidal (Juventus)



Although the Chilean has pledged his future to Juventus, this talented midfielder will surely attract bids from a number of clubs this summer. Manchester United may try for him if they don't land Marchisio, and they may be joined by Bayern Munich and Arsenal. The skillful playmaker has been a key part of Juve's success in the last two seasons, and it would be great to see him strutting his stuff in the Premier League.

20. David Luiz (Chelsea)



Barcelona have identified Chelsea's David Luiz as the ideal solution to their defensive problems this summer. Although not always renowned for being the most reliable and focused defender, the Brazilian has really grown as a player and a leader for the Blues this season. The 26-year-old would certainly suit Barca's style of play, as he is a technically gifted player who likes to pass the ball on the floor and get forward. The Catalans are said to be willing to offer as much as £35million for the former Benfica man, and although Chelsea don't exactly need the money, they could be tempted to invest even more in other areas of the squad. Much of this potential transfer will surely depend on what happens with Galatasaray target John Terry.

19. Stevan Jovetic (Fiorentina)



This transfer saga has gone on for a while, but it looks increasingly likely that Arsenal will sign Fiorentina striker Stevan Jovetic this summer. There have also been rumours that Juventus could attempt to hijack their bid, but La Viola will not want to sell their star player to a Serie A rival, which should push a deal through. According to various reports, he could cost anywhere between £15million and £25million, but he'll certainly be an excellent purchase for the Gunners.

18. Christian Benteke (Aston Villa)



Aston Villa will struggle to keep hold of Christian Benteke after his excellent form this season. The summer signing from Genk has made a real name for himself in the Premier League and will now surely invite a flurry of bids from the likes of Arsenal, Liverpool, Atletico Madrid and Borussia Dortmund. Villa are determined for him to stay, but after their season fighting relegation he might want to move on to bigger things, and he has shown he could improve any of the teams that hope to make a move for him.

17. Fernando Torres (Chelsea)



The £50million flop Fernando Torres will surely be shown the door by Chelsea this summer after failing to impress in his two and a half years at Stamford Bridge. The 29-year-old has looked like shadow of his former self ever since he arrived from Liverpool, and they will have to accept that this transfer has been a failure. Former club Atletico Madrid are said to be welcome to his return, and though he wants to stay and fight for his place at the club, he may not have a choice in the matter as Roman Abramovich plots big money moves for other targets.

16. Alexis Sanchez (Barcelona)



The Chilean winger has not looked at his best during his time at Barcelona since joining from Udinese. At that point, the 24-year-old was wanted by top clubs all around Europe, but now he could move on the cheap after failing to become more than a squad player at the Nou Camp. Sanchez can also play upfront and his talents are said to be tempting Arsenal, Liverpool, Juventus and Inter Milan. A return to Serie A might be best for the attacker, as that's where he seemed to initially find his best form, but he could also add something to the Premier League if he's given more of an opportunity to be a regular at a club.

15. David Villa (Barcelona)



The veteran Barcelona forward has had a tough time with injuries in recent seasons and has now fallen down the pecking order at the Nou Camp. However, he remains a talented finisher and is on the radar of a number of Premier League clubs. Manchester City have previously been linekd with him, and he supposedly came close to joining Arsenal in January, though it now seems likely to be a two-way tussle between Tottenham and Liverpool for the Spaniard. Both clubs need a striker, and though he would only be a short term option, he deserves another chance to prove himself after some slightly unfair treatment by the Catalan giants.

14. Marco Reus (Borussia Dortmund)



Marco Reus is apparently on Manuell Pellegrini's five-player transfer target shortlist for when he takes over at Manchester City this summer. Chelsea are also interested in the German forward, but City will supposedly launch a massive £35million bid to bring the 23-year-old to the Etihad Stadium. Reus has 19 goals for Dortmund this season and is one of many talented young players coming through in Germany at the moment, and one of many who could be on the way out of Champions League finalists Dortmund this summer.

13. Luka Modric (Real Madrid)



Although he was an undisputed star at Tottenham, £33million Luka Modric was voted the worst La Liga signing of last summer after failing to establish himself as a regular at Real Madrid. The 27-year-old has been in and out of the team at the Bernebeu this season, and after Real failed to win a single trophy he could be on the way out as the club undergo a summer shake up. Inter Milan have been linked with the Croatian, as have rivals AC Milan. A transfer flop last season, but hopefully not this time round as Modric still has plenty to offer to any team that gives him a chance.

12. Stephan El Shaarawy (AC Milan)



This young forward is one of the brightest prospects in Italian football, lighting up Serie A with his displays for AC Milan this season, finding himself among the league's top scorers at only 20 years of age. Arsenal were linked with a shock bid for him in January, though he is almost certainly out of their price range. Manchester City are also admirers of his, but the player himself has said he is happy to stay at the San Siro for his whole career.

11. Isco (Malaga)



Although this exciting young talent is sought after by most of Europe's top clubs, Manchester City look set to win the race for his signature now with the news that Manuel Pellegrini will leave Malaga and attempt to bring his star player with him to the Etihad Stadium. Chelsea and PSG will be disappointed to lose out on the 21-year-old, as his talent could certainly have a major say on where the Premier League title ends up next season. Amazingly, he could cost as little as £17million, which will be a bargain for a player who could be one of the best midfielders in the world for many years to come.

10. Neymar (Santos)



Brazilian sensation Neymar seems likely to join Barcelona this summer, as the Catalans have seemed to be leading the race for his signature for the last few months. In the last few days, however,  there looked like being some disagreement over the fee, and Barca's rivals Real Madrid will hope to push through a late deal for the 21-year-old. Neymar has already scored an incredible 136 goals in the first five years of his career at Santos, and will surely go on to be a world star wherever he ends up, and it is very unlikely that the Brazilian outfit will manage to keep him for much longer.

9. Gonzalo Higuain (Real Madrid)



Rather harshly placed on the transfer list by Real Madrid, it seems that a bid of £22million could land the talented Argentinian striker in this summer's transfer window. Arsenal are currently showing the strongest interest as they look to find a replacement for Robin van Persie, but Liverpool, Manchester City and Juventus are also keen on the 25-year-old, who has a good record of 120 goals in 264 appearances for Real Madrid.

8. Robert Lewandowski (Borussia Dortmund)



The Polish striker has been in phenomenal form this season, and looks set to leave Borussia Dortmund for rivals Bayern Munich this summer - after facing them in the Champions League final at Wembley. The likes of Manchester United and Chelsea will be disappointed to miss out on the 24-year-old hitman, but it appears that he will continue to terrorise Bundesliga defences at least for a few more years, in what should be a fantastic capture for the German champions.

7. Luis Suarez (Liverpool)



Despite being favourites to land Robert Lewandowski, Bayern Munich are also reportedly keen on Liverpool star Luis Suarez. The controversial Uruguayan has been in fantastic form this season, scoring 30 goals for the Reds and standing out as their best player. His displays along Brendan Rodgers' side's failure to secure Champions League football and silverware may mean he is tempted by a move to a bigger team, though he will certainly not come cheap. Barcelona are also said to be considering him as an alternative to Neymar if that deal does fall through.

6. Cesc Fabregas (Barcelona)



Cesc Fabregas fought long and hard to secure a move back to Barcelona from Arsenal, but things haven't worked out for the Spanish midfield playmaker at the Nou Camp. He has often been played out of position for the club, playing second fiddle to the likes of Xavi and Iniesta, and is unhappy with his role in the team. He has been linked with AC Milan and with a possible reunion with Pep Guardiola at Bayern Munich, and Arsenal of course have a buy-back clause in his contract that they may try to activate. However, he could also be subject to a surprise bid from Manchester United, who may look to link up the 26-year-old with his old Arsenal team mate Robin van Persie at Old Trafford, in what could be a devastating partnership.

5. Edinson Cavani (Napoli)



Regarded as one of the best strikers in the world, Edinson Cavani has been linked with almost every one over the last year, though it now looks likely to come down to either Chelsea or Manchester City in this summer's transfer window. The Uruguayan will command around £50million and whoever signs him will be very lucky, as he will surely only score more goals in Chelsea and City's lineups, given his terrific record with Napoli.

4. Radamel Falcao (Atletico Madrid)



Monaco emerged as surprise favourites to land in-demand Atletico Madrid striker Radamel Falcao a few days ago, though it is understood his future is still somewhat up in the air. Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea and Real Madrid have all been chasing the Colombian, who is one of the most lethal finishers in the game at the moment, scoring an excellent 34 goals in 40 games in all competitions for Diego Simeone's side this season.

3. Gareth Bale (Tottenham)



Tottenham are understandably determined to hold on to their star player Gareth Bale this summer, though with the club's failure to secure Champions League football, his excquisite strike against Sunderland today could be his final action as a Spurs player. The 23-year-old winger has developed into one of the world's best players in his six years at White Hart Lane, and is attracting interest from both Manchester United and Real Madrid, with the Spanish giants particularly keen to add the Welshman to their ranks. Real could offer as much as £65million for Bale as they look to wrestle the title back off rivals Barcelona next season.

2. Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid)



In what would be one of the moves of the summer, Cristiano Ronaldo has said he would be open to a return to his old club Manchester United. The Portuguese super star has fallen out with the management and the supporters at Real Madrid, despite an incredible few years at the Bernebeu, scoring an amazing 201 goals in 199 games for the club since they bought him for a record-breaking £80million from the Red Devils. With Real determined to sign Bale, the Spurs star could be brought in as a decent replacement, as the sale of Ronaldo would surely help fund the move. They want around £60million as well as players in return, most likely to be Nani and Javier Hernandez, and this move would endear David Moyes to the United fans very quickly indeed.

1. Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)



Wayne Rooney's transfer request to Manchester United is sure to get big clubs from all over Europe swarming. Although his desire to leave was only recently announced, he has already attracted enquiries from Real Madrid, Barcelona, PSG, Bayern Munich, Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester City. Chelsea currently seems like the most likely destination for the England star, who would end a nine-year association with United if he leaves. The 27-year-old should perhaps take the opportunity to move on though, as he has become something of a utility player at Old Trafford, and his talent certainly deserves more.

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100. Julio Cesar (Queens Park Rangers)



The veteran Brazilian goalkeeper is likely to be on the move again this summer despite only arriving at QPR from Inter Milan a year ago. Arsenal are on the lookout for a goalkeeper and may turn to Cesar if they cannot land some of their other options. A return to Brazil has also been mooted for the 33-year-old, who will surely depart Loftus Road following Rangers' relegation from the Premier League, as his manager Harry Redknapp has admitted he is too good for the Championship. Perhaps some good news at last for Rob Green!

99. Alvaro Negredo (Sevilla)



The Spanish international striker came close to joining Everton in January, and has admitted a liking for English football. Arsenal and Tottenham may move for him this summer as both are keen to sign strikers, but the 27-year-old could be persuaded to stay in Spain as Atletico Madrid are reportedly eyeing him up as a replacement for Radamel Falcao if he leaves. After showing his quality with 81 goals in the last four years with Sevilla, he may feel he has earned a chance at a bigger club next season.

98. Adil Rami (Valencia)



One of the most solid defenders in Spain, Adil Rami is on the lookout for a move to a bigger club this summer to boost his chances of a starting place in France's squad for the 2014 World Cup. Arsenal and Manchester United are said to be the frontrunners for his signature, and he would certainly be a bargain at Valencia's supposed asking price of just £10million.

97. Andreas Weimann (Aston Villa)



The young Austrian has been something of a revelation for Aston Villa this season, with some eye-catching displays to help Paul Lambert's side survive relegation. The attacking midfielder, who can also play upfront, has got himself on Liverpool's radar with his performances and his 12 goals in all competitions. His agent has admitted he is unlikely to stay at Villa Park, but wants a move to another Premier League club.

96. Aleksandar Kolarov (Manchester City)



The £16million signing from Lazio has not really looked the part for City, and could be heading back to Serie A this summer with champions Juventus showing an interest in the left-back. With City offering Gael Clichy a four-year contract, it is clear that he has become first choice on the left side of defence, as Kolarov has not shown the same defensive discipline in that role, possibly operating better as a wing back, which would suit Juventus' 3-5-2 formation.

95. Bacary Sagna (Arsenal)



Sagna's six-year stay with Arsenal could be coming to an end, as the right-back has reportedly refused to sign a new contract. PSG have shown the strongest interest in the 30-year-old, and he has not ruled out a move to the French giants. Monaco are also said to be interested, and Arsenal will surely choose to sell him this summer rather than risk losing him on a free next season - a similarly sticky situation to the one they found themselves in with Robin van Persie last year.

94. Dimitar Berbatov (Fulham)



The Bulgarian forward only joined Fulham from Manchester United last summer, but is reportedly unhappy at Craven Cottage already. The 32-year-old has had a good season for Martin Jol's side, and his displays have attracted the interest of big-spending Turkish giants Galatasaray, who will to carry on their ambitious January spending which saw big names such as Wesley Sneijder and Didier Drogba join the club. Fulham may decide to take the reasonable £5million offer for an ageing player and reinvest in their squad to improve their displays next season.

93. Anders Lindegaard (Manchester United)



West Ham are said to be monitoring the situation of Manchester United's backup goalkeeper Anders Lindegaard. The 29-year-old is unlikely to break past David de Gea in the pecking order, and could be tempted by the Hammers' offer of first team football.

92. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (St Etienne)



This highly rated young forward has caught the eye of many top clubs with his performances for St Etienne this season. The 23-year-old has scored 20 goals in Ligue 1 and is being watched by Premier League trio Arsenal, Tottenham and Newcastle. Though the player himself has said he dreams of playing for Real Madrid.

91. Arjen Robben (Bayern Munich)



The former Chelsea winger has been a key player for Bayern Munich over the last few years, but may be on the way out this summer after falling down the club's pecking order. However, his talents are still admired by Manchester City, who are being tipped to make a move for the speedy Dutchman.

90. Sergi Roberto (Barcelona)



This young Barcelona midfielder is reportedly holding talks over a summer switch to Tottenham, as he does not fancy his chances of breaking past the likes of Xavi and Iniesta into Barca's vastly talented midfield.

89. Ashley Williams (Swansea City)



The Swansea captain has had another impressive season, helping his team to glory in the Capital One Cup. Arsenal and Liverpool are showing a strong interest as they look to add a centre-back to their squads this summer, and have been told by Swansea that they will have to pay £10million for the Welshman.

88. Tim Krul (Newcastle)



The talented Dutch shot stopper is being tipped to leave St James' Park this summer after Newcastle have had a poor season fighting relegation. Roma are said to be leading the way for the 25-year-old, and AC Milan are also admirers of his. This will come as a blow to Alan Pardew, as he will also lose backup 'keeper Steve Harper, who has made the decision to retire at the end of the season.

87. Angelo Ogbonna (Torino)



A whole host of clubs have been watching Angelo Ogbonna of Torino. The talented 24-year-old centre-back could be approached by any one of Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool or AC Milan this summer, as a big move surely beckons for the Italian international. Reports suggest he would cost around £17million.

86. Fernandinho (Shakhtar Donetsk)



The Brazilian midfielder has pleaded for Shakhtar Donetsk to lower their asking price so that he can move to Manchester City, who have made him one of their main targets for this summer's transfer window. At the moment he could cost around £42.5million due to the release clause in his contract, but he is a top talent who could improve City's midfield for the title race next season.

85. Leighton Baines (Everton)



With Everton manager David Moyes leaving the club to join Manchester United, he is apparently keen to take left-back Leighton Baines with him. The former Wigan man has been a stand-out performer at Goodison Park this year and would be an upgrade on Patrice Evra in United's defence. Everton will be determined not to lose him, but he could go for around £15-20million.

84. Dani Alves (Barcelona)



The Brazilian right-back has been a world class player over the last few years at Barcelona, though his form has dipped this season. He has been linked with a summer move to PSG, and the Catlans are willing to sell the player as they make some changes to their inconsistent squad, which has been unconvincing despite their La Liga title win.

83. Alvaro Pereira (Inter Milan)



Former Porto left-back Alvaro Pereira says he will stay and fight for his place at Inter Milan, but the Serie A club may decide they'd rather let him go if interest from Tottenham and his old boss Andre Villas-Boas continues. Spurs are keen to recruit a new player to replace Benoit Assou-Ekotto and Danny Rose, who are unlikely to be kept at the club for next season.

82. Gervinho (Arsenal)



The Ivorian forward is somehow a target for Turkish giants Galatasaray, who are willing to pay an incredible £12million for the 25-year-old who has been such a flop for Arsenal. With just eight league goals in two seasons, the former Lille man does not look like Premier League quality at all, often getting himself into a muddle with his wayward dribbling and missing easy chances when they are presented to him. Arsenal will be hoping to take the money and run if Galatasaray really rate him.

81. Florian Thauvin (Lille)



This exciting 20-year-old attacking midfielder is attracting a lot of interest after his displays this season for Bastia, where he has been on loan. Arsenal, Chelsea and Newcastle are all said to have made enquiries about him in January and could move for him again as they look to strengthen their squads this summer.

80. Younes Belhanda (Montpellier)



Arsenal and Spurs target Younes Belhanda will leave Montpellier this summer, his club have confirmed. The talented 23-year-old has been a key player for the French side over the last couple of years and is said to be keen on a new challenge, with a particular liking for English football. Newcastle are also likely to show an interest given their recent liking for players from France, and Belhanda could be one of the bargains of the summer with just an £8million asking price from Montpellier.

79. Ilkay Gundogan (Borussia Dortmund)



One of many players impressing in the Bundesliga at the moment, Ilkay Gundogan's displays for Borussia Dortmund have attracted a lot of interest from the likes of Arsenal, Manchester United and Barcelona. The 22-year-old is a skillful defensive midfielder who could add a lot of quality to any of those sides' squads. United appear to be leading the way for his signature, as they look to improve on their current options in the middle of the park, which will be weakened with Paul Scholes' retirement and possible departure of Anderson.

78. Esteban Granero (Queens Park Rangers)



Esteban Granero has not had the best of seasons at QPR, despite looking like a quality signing from Real Madrid. The team have struggled as a whole this season, finding themselves surprisingly relegated when they were expected to aim for a top half finish after all the money they spent. Granero is one of many big-name flops, scoring just one goal and providing just one assist. The 25-year-old is still highly rated however, and is reportedly a target for Serie A side Fiorentina.

77. Adem Ljajic (Fiorentina)



Chelsea are said to be leading the chase for Fiorentina's Adem Ljajic, one of the best young players in Serie A. The talented 21-year-old was once a target for Manchester United when he was younger, though a move fell through. He is now hot property after developing into a fine player in Italy, and will also attract interest from Arsenal and Manchester City this summer. With 8 goals and 8 assists for La Viola in Serie A, imagine what he could do in one of the top Premier League sides.

76. Heung-Min Son (Hamburg)



One of the best young players in the Bundesliga, Hamburg forward Heung-Min Son is much in demand this summer, with Arsenal, Tottenham and Borussia Dortmund all said to be vying for his signature. Hamburg have recently said they are confident of keeping him as they have not yet received any bids for the skillful 20-year-old, but it is surely only a matter of time before the young South Korean moves on to bigger things.

75. Hernanes (Lazio)



Manchester City are said to be hot on the heals of Lazio's Brazilian star Hernanes, and the player himself has welcomed their interest. The 27-year-old has a great reputation after moving to Serie A a few years ago, perhaps known best for his powerful long range shots, as well as his overall passing and playmaking abilities from the middle of the park. City would be lucky to have him as he could form a great midfield partnership with Yaya Toure and help get them back on track for a title challenge next season.

74. Pepe Reina (Liverpool)



Barcelona have apparently identified Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina as a top priority target this summer, as they expect Victor Valdes to leave the club. Valdes himself could make his way to the Premier League, while Reina could return to the club where he started his career. The 30-year-old's departure may be a blessing in disguise for Reds boss Brendan Rodgers, as Reina has not been at his best for a couple of years now, and could be improved on. Liverpool could make some decent money from his sale and get someone more reliable between the posts for next season.

73. Michel Vorm (Swansea City)



Liverpool could in fact target Swansea City's Michel Vorm if Reina leaves. The Dutch shot stopper is also another target for Barcelona, but he may be keen to reunite with Brendan Rodgers at Liverpool, after it was he that brought him to the Premier League in his time at Swansea. The 29-year-old is widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the country at the moment and is also a target for Arsenal, who are looking out for a new goalkeeper to replace or at least challenge the off-form Wojciech Szczesny for his place in the team.

72. Mohamed Diame (West Ham)



West Ham could lose Mohamed Diame this summer, just one season after they signed the Senegalese midfielder from Wigan. The 25-year-old has had an excellent season for the Hammers, and was reportedly close to joining Arsenal or Tottenham in January. The move never materialised, but his £3.5million minimum release fee clause is likely to see the North London pair sniffing around again in the summer transfer window. Both clubs could do with reinforcements in the defensive midfield position, as Arsenal are still to find a suitable replacement for Alex Song, who left for Barcelona last summer. Tottenham could also do with strengthening in that area, as Sandro and Scott Parker have had lengthy spells out with injury this season. Parker has also been linked with a move to relegated QPR. At this kind of price, a talent like Diame is unlikely to remain at West Ham.

71. Laurent Koscielny (Arsenal)



The talented French centre-back is reportedly a target for Pep Guardiola, who will be taking over as manager of Bayern Munich next season. The 27-year-old has proved a good find by Arsene Wenger since joining as a relative unknown from Lorient in 2010, establishing himself as one of the club's best defenders. Now valued at around £20million, he would be a good addition to this strong Bayern side, though Wenger will be hoping not to lose another important and experienced member of his squad this summer. Barcelona have also been linked, as they look to strengthen in central defence after a season of injuries and poor form from Carles Puyol and Gerard Pique.

70. Tom Ince (Blackpool)



This exciting young winger is earning rave reviews after his performances in the Championship, and is wanted by his old club Liverpool, as well as Tottenham and Inter Milan. Blackpool are keen to tie down the 21-year-old to a new contract, though it seems unlikely that they will be able to fight off so much interest in their star player. Having started his career at Anfield, he could be a good addition to a squad lacking in talented wingers at the moment, and looks good value at around £7million. The son of former England captain Paul Ince is arguably a better player than Manchester United-bound Wilfried Zaha, who earned his move to Old Trafford in January after his displays for Crystal Palace.

69. Angel Di Maria (Real Madrid)



Real Madrid are planning something of a summer clear-out, and Angel Di Maria could be one to go. The talented Argentine has not had his best season this year, and may fall further down the pecking order with some of the big names that are expected to join at the Bernebeu. Manchester United are rumoured to be interested, with their need for wingers to improve on the likes of Nani and Ashley Young, and AC Milan are also said to be considering a move. He would apparently be available for around £15million and could do with a move to get his promising career back on track.

68. Marouane Fellaini (Everton)



Another player said to be leaving alongside David Moyes for Manchester United, the talented Belgian has apparently welcomed the interest from Old Trafford. Everton will be keen not to lose him as well as Leighton Baines, but the towering midfielder has been another stand-out performer this year and has expressed a desire to play in the Champions League. Chelsea and Arsenal have also been linked with him, and he has a minimum release fee clause of around £25million, which would be decent money for a player who guarantees you goals, assists, an aerial threat and good defensive work in midfield. He is a very influential player and looks to have outgrown Everton at this stage in his career.

67. Asmir Begovic (Stoke City)



The Stoke City goalkeeper has arguably been their best player this season, in a disappointing campaign for the Potters in which they fought against relegation. The Bosnian shot stopper is now on the radar of the likes of Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal. The 25-year-old would cost around £15million and prove a good option for any of those sides. He has said he is happy at Stoke, but with manager Tony Pulis already bringing in young goalkeeper Jack Butland from Birmingham City in the summer, he may be expecting Begovic to be sold, and they may not feel they are able to turn down that kind of money if the offers come in.

66. Hatem Ben Arfa (Newcastle)



After a poor season for Newcastle, it would be no surprise to see a number of key players depart, and Hatem Ben Arfa is certainly one of them. On his day the exciting French winger can win games on his own with remarkable dribbling skills and powerful long range shots. Still only 26, he would be a good investment for any top club and supposedly already has offers from Tottenham and Liverpool, with PSG also monitoring his situation. The one problem with the former Marseille star is that he has been plagued by injuries during his time in England, but it's no surprise to see top clubs showing an interest given what he can do if he stays fit. His absence this season has played a big part in Newcastle's worsening fortunes.

65. Kevin De Bruyne (Chelsea)



This talented Chelsea youngster has really put himself in the shop window with his displays on loan at Bundesliga side Werder Bremen this season. The Belgian still seems unlikely to force his way into the Chelsea team, so will reportedly attract a bid from Borussia Dotmund. Jurgen Klopp's side see the 21-year-old as a good replacement for Bayern Munich-bound Mario Goetze, which is some compliment. Bayer Leverkusen may also ask for him in return for long-time Blues target Andre Schurrle, though many Bundesliga fans cannot understand why Chelsea don't want to keep him.

64. Lukas Podolski (Arsenal)



Lukas Podolski has had a decent start to life in English football, but due to some fitness problems and recent omissions from the team, it has been suggested that he could leave the club just one season after joining from Cologne. Atletico Madrid and Juventus have been linked with the German forward, but the strongest interest seems to be coming from Galatasaray, who could make a double swoop on Arsenal as they also look to sign Gervinho from the Gunners. They will offer £12million for the 27-year-old, and Arsenal don't have a great recent track record of keeping their big names at the club.

63. Micah Richards (Manchester City)



Micah Richards has been unfortunate to find himself out of the Manchester City team this season, after some problems with injuries and the fine form of Pablo Zabaleta. Now 24, the talented right-back needs regular first team football if he has any hope of getting back into the England squad, and it is said that Liverpool and Arsenal may come in for him this summer. Richards can also play at centre-back and deserves a chance to be playing regularly at a top club, though a high asking price of £15million may put some clubs off, due to his recent lack of regular action.

62. Burak Yilmaz (Galatasaray)



This Turkish striker has shown himself to be something of a goal machine this season for Galatasaray, in both the league and the Champions League. Arsenal and Liverpool are known to be looking for strikers this summer and have been linked with the 27-year-old, as have Manchester United and Napoli. Galatasaray have made it clear they will expect around £15million for their star striker, though they have also admitted that they don't hold out much hope of keeping him. However, with plenty of summer spending plans of their own, they might not miss him so much.

61. Aaron Lennon (Tottenham)



The speedy Spurs winger has never quite looked like becoming the world class talent that he looked like as a youngster in his days at Leeds. The 26-year-old has been at White Hart Lane for most of his career now, but could be subject to a summer bid from Serie A giants Inter Milan. Spurs may feel it is time for the England international to move on while they pursue other targets, and Lennon could also do with a new challenge in Italy, and certainly improve this Inter side that is struggling so much at the moment.

60. Brad Guzan (Aston Villa)



West Ham's search for a goalkeeper could see them approach Aston Villa for Brad Guzan. The Hammers, as already mentioned, are keen on Manchester United's backup 'keeper Anders Lindegaard, but with the Danish shot stopper supposedly happy to stay at Old Trafford, Guzan could be a good second choice. The American has been in fine form for Villa this season after replacing Shay Given as first choice at Villa Park. the 28-year-old could be sold at a very healthy profit for Villa, now valued at around £5million - not bad for a player that cost £600,000 when he was signed from MLS side Chivas in 2008.

59. Jesus Navas (Sevilla)



The Sevilla winger has been highly rated since a young age, but has spent his entire career with his boyhood club due to suffering from chronic homesickness, which also affects him when he travels with the Spanish national team. However, he continues to attract interest from top clubs as there is no doubting his quality. The skillful winger is wanted by Manchester City and Borussia Dortmund, as both sides hope to strengthen their attacking midfield options.

58. Koke (Atletico Madrid)



This talented young Atletico Madrid playmaker is one of many in this generation of impressive Spanish midfielders, and has previously been linked with Manchester United and Arsenal. Roma are now rumoured to be stepping up their interest, and other big clubs may soon follow for a 21-year-old who surely has a great future in the game.

57. Lukasz Piszczek (Borussia Dortmund)



With Bacary Sagna likely to leave Arsenal, the Gunners have been linked with Borussia Dortmund's Polish right-back Lukasz Piszczek. The 27-year-old has emerged as a key performer for both club and country in recent years, combining great defensive work with a high work rate and ability to get forward. Piszczek won't come cheap, but he could actually be a significant improvement on Sagna for Arsenal, as the Frenchman has not been at his best this season and is surely past his peak at the age of 30. Chelsea have also watched him in the past and with a number of players likely to leave Dortmund this summer, there could be a few clubs who try their luck with Piszczek.

56. Aymen Abdennour (Toulouse)



Arsenal, Liverpool and Barcelona have all watched this highly rated Ligue 1 defender in recent months, and it now seems Liverpool will step up their interest and table a £6million bid for the Tunisian international. The versatile 23-year-old defender can play both centre-back and left-back, and would be a very useful addition to any of these clubs, due to their current defensive problems. He has certainly established himself as one of the best defenders in the French league, and interest in him is no surprise.

55. Romelu Lukaku (Chelsea)



Romelu Lukaku will be a wanted man this summer, even if it is only on loan. The young Belgian has been in great form on loan at West Brom from Chelsea, but it seems he still won't quite work his way into the Blues' starting lineup next season. West Ham appear to be leading the chase for the talented 19-year-old, who will certainly help the club deal with the loss of Andy Carroll if they don't manage to sign him permanently. Lukaku's form has also attracted interest from Swansea, Fulham and even Italian giants Juventus, but as with Kevin De Bruyne it's hard to understand why Chelsea can't find a use for him - he would surely be an improvement on Fernando Torres and Demba Ba.

54. Luke Shaw (Southampton)



It's incredible to think Luke Shaw is only 17 and playing his first season in the Southampton first team. The young left-back has slotted in seamlessly for the Saints in the Premier League this season, and looks to be the latest in the line of great players produced by the academy at St Mary's, along with Gareth Bale, Theo Walcott and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. He has played with great maturity in defence this season, and also looks a skillful attacker going forward. Chelsea and Tottenham are the main clubs that seem to be in for him, and despite saying he's a Chelsea fan, he is said to be torn between the two options. Arsenal have also shown an interest, and it looks like Southampton will have a big job on their hands fighting off interest in their young prodigy this summer.

53. Franco Di Santo (Wigan)



West Brom are keen to land Franco Di Santo from relegated Wigan. The 24-year-old is a free agent this summer after his deal at the DW Stadium is set to expire, and the Baggies will need a new striker as loan star Romelu Lukaku heads back to Chelsea. Shane Long could also leave the club, and want-away striker Peter Odemwingie will probably be shown the door after his antics in the January transfer window. This will leave Steve Clarke's side desperately short of options upfront and Di Santo has shown himself as a very capable Premier League player in the last couple of seasons with Wigan, despite their regular battles with relegation and their eventual drop this year.

52. Daniele De Rossi (Roma)



If Jose Mourinho rejoins Chelsea, he has reportedly made Roma midfielder Daniele De Rossi a prime target. The Blues could do with extra options in midfield and could land the 29-year-old for just £10million after he has had a relatively disappointing season in Serie A. He has been linked with moves to the Premier League before, with both Manchester United and Manchester City showing an interest, and this could finally be the year he leaves the club he's been with for his whole career.

51. Karim Benzema (Real Madrid)



Manchester United are known to be on the lookout for strikers this summer, and Karim Benzema could be available after falling down in the pecking order at Real Madrid. The talented French finisher still has an impressive record of 19 goals and 20 assists this season, and could surely reach world class form again if given the chance. Manchester United are currently being linked with a move for the France international who should cost around £30million.

50. Scott Sinclair (Manchester City)



Scott Sinclair's move from Swansea to Manchester City has been nothing short of a disaster this season, as the 24-year-old has hardly featured for Roberto Mancini's side. Mancini admitted he was unfair on him and didn't give him enough opportunities, but even with the Italian being sacked following his side's shock defeat to Wigan in the FA Cup final, City are sure to welcome offers for the unwanted winger. The most likely moves for him at the moment seem to be either a return to Swansea or to Liverpool where he would play under his old Swansea boss Brendan Rodgers.

49. Zlatan Ibrahimovic (PSG)



After a falling out with Leonardo at PSG, Zlatan Ibrahimovic could be set for a move back to Italy with Juventus, after just one season (and another league title in another country) in France. The talented but eccentric Swede has arguably shown the best form of his career in Serie A, originally with Juventus, and then Inter Milan and AC Milan. Juve are keen to sign some strikers this summer, and Ibrahimovic remains one of the best in the game, bringing success with him wherever he goes.

48. Thiago Alcantara (Barcelona)



Barcelona midfielder Thiago Alcantara could be a good option for a number of clubs this summer, as he remains a wasted talent at the Nou Camp. The 22-year-old is one of the club's brightest prospects, but he has been unfortunate to be around when such star names such as Xavi and Iniesta are always going to be picked ahead of him. Manchester United are on alert after hearing he could be sold, and he has been previously linked with the likes of Manchester City and Arsenal. He's certainly too good to be on the bench for much longer, so is sure to be on the move this summer.

47. Yohan Cabaye (Newcastle)



Yohan Cabaye has really impressed since joining Newcastle from French side Lille for what now looks like a real bargain at just £4million, and was almost immediately linked with Arsenal. The talented playmaker could now be a £20million target for Manchester United as they seek a long-term replacement for the retiring Paul Scholes. The 27-year-old could also be tempted by a move away after a difficult season of fighting relegation with Alan Pardew's side.

46. Papiss Cisse (Newcastle)



Borussia Dortmund are on the lookout for a number of strikers this summer due to the inevitable loss of star man Robert Lewandowski, and Newcastle's Papiss Cisse is the latest to apparently be on their shortlist. The Senegalese forward made an explosive start to life in the Premier League last season with an incredible 13 goals in 14 games - including an absolute wonder-strike against Chelsea - but has struggled somewhat this time round, albeit in a team that has been worse overall this season. He could be tempted by a return to the Bundesliga, where he first made a name for himself with Freiburg.

45. Jackson Martinez (Porto)



Borussia Dortmund may also go head-t0-head with Liverpool for in-form Porto striker Jackson Martinez. The Colombian has had a great breakthrough season in Portugal, scoring an excellent 33 goals in 38 games in his first season with the club. Manchester United and Chelsea have also been linked, though they appear to have more pressing targets.

44. Nemanja Matic (Benfica)



This former Chelsea youngster has made a real name for himself at Benfica, impressing this season in his team's run to the Europa League final. Chelsea have been unsurprisingly linked with a return for the Serbian, though Manchester United are also keen on him to improve their midfield options this summer. He would supposedly cost around £45million, which may be a stumbling block in the deal. One of a few Benfica players who could be snapped up by bigger clubs in the upcoming transfer window.

43. Victor Valdes (Barcelona)



Barcelona goalkeeper Victor Valdes has confirmed his desire to leave Barcelona after a fantastic eleven years with the club. The Spaniard wants a new challenge and could be signed by any one of a number of interested parties. Arsenal are considering him as one of several options for a new goalkeeper, and Manchester United and PSG are also keen on the 31-year-old. His experience and history of winning things would be a great addition to any side's dressing room, and it's certainly Barca's loss. They are reportedly targeting the uninspiring Pepe Reina of Liverpool as a replacement.

42. Andre Schurrle (Bayer Leverkusen)



The signing of Andre Schurrle from Bayer Leverkusen to Chelsea looked like being a done deal not so long ago, though the move hasn't progressed from there. Still, the Blues are determined to land this long-standing target and add to their attacking midfield options next season. He should cost around £20million and looks worth every penny as another great prospect emerging from German football at the moment.

41. Callum McManaman (Wigan)



With Wigan relegated from the Premier League, a number of their best players are sure to leave for bigger clubs, and none have caught the eye more recently than Callum McManaman. The young winger played a great part in the club's miraculous FA Cup win and is now a target for Liverpool, though boss Roberto Martinez has pleaded with him to reject a move and continue his development with Wigan in the Championship. Not sure he'll listen to that particular piece of advice.

40. Loic Remy (Queens Park Rangers)



The January signing from Marseille has proved a hit in the Premier League, though his six goals in thirteen games have not been enough to keep Queens Park Rangers from avoiding relegation. The French striker was wanted by Arsenal and Newcastle as well in January, and they may move again this summer as he is sure to be available following Rangers' drop to the Championship. He apparently has a minimum release fee clause of £8million and Liverpool are also keen on him, though he has described Arsenal as a 'dream move'.

39. Joao Moutinho (Porto)



Joao Moutinho came close to joining his old Porto boss Andre Villas-Boas at Tottenham last summer, though a move didn't materialise in the final hours of the transfer window. Spurs are expected to rekindle their interest in the Portuguese playmaker, though he is also a target for big-spending Monaco, who may be more able to offer his £33million fee than Spurs are.

38. Alex Song (Barcelona)



Alex Song has had a tough time since joining Arsenal from Barcelona, which may come as no surprise. He had a good season for the Gunners last year, but he never exactly looked capable of dislodging Sergio Busquets in Barca's defensive midfield position. He is now understandably unhappy after a season on the bench and pining for a return to Arsenal. Arsene Wenger has ruled out a move, but he often likes to keep his cards close to his chest, and may be tempted to bring back a player he has so far failed to replace. Spurs and Manchester City have also been linked with the Cameroon international.

37. Phil Jagielka (Everton)



The 30-year-old has been a reliable performer for many years now at Everton, but is the third current player who is apparently being eyed up by David Moyes as he leaves the club for Manchester United. The Red Devils could perhaps do with defensive reinforcements due to the age of Rio Ferdinand and the injury record of Nemanja Vidic, but it remains to be seen if Moyes will indeed land all three of Baines, Fellaini and Jagielka, leaving his former employers in something of a mess.

36. Christian Eriksen (Ajax)



This exceptionally gifted young player has been on the books at Ajax for many years now, and attracted interest almost as soon as he became a first team regular. Surprisingly, he has remained with the club, but that surely won't be for much longer as Liverpool are supposedly stepping up their interest in the Dane. The 21-year-old has, however, told them to hurry up about making a bid or he will renew his deal with the Dutch giants.

35. John Terry (Chelsea)



This legendary Chelsea captain could be set for a shock exit from the club this summer after a frustrating season. The 32-year-old has often found himself on the bench with Rafael Benitez prefering David Luiz, Gary Cahill and even Branislav Ivanovic at centre-back. Galatasaray are showing a strong interest in the defender. The former England international may now feel it is time to leave Stamford Bridge for a new challenge, and join former team mate Didier Drogba in Turkey.

34. Emmanuel Adebayor (Tottenham)



It's been a strange career for Emmanuel Adebayor, who has gone from being a flop at Arsenal, to being great, to being a flop at Manchester City to being great on loan at Spurs, and then finally to being a flop once again after sealing a permanent move to White Hart Lane last summer. The frustrating Togolese forward has only managed to score five league goals this season, a very poor return, and could be shown the door at the end of the season with his old club Monaco lurking. The 29-year-old could be available for just £5million and may not be the best option for the big-spending French club, but their interest does seem genuine.

33. Cristian Tello (Barcelona)



Both Arsenal and Liverpool are reportedly keen on Barcelona starlet Cristian Tello. The 21-year-old is another talented youngster that has come through the club's youth system, and is unfortunate to find the likes of Lionel Messi and Pedro Rodriguez ahead of him. The skillful forward has a bright future and will want to be playing regularly soon, so may take up an offer from the Premier League, and will certainly be tempting with a minimum release fee clause of just £8million. This Spaniard could end up being one of the bargains of the summer and should fulfill his great potential if he gets a chance.

32. Fabio Coentrao (Real Madrid)



Another player who could be cleared out by Real Madrid this summer is left-back Fabio Coentrao. The talented Portuguese international has been in and out of the side at the Bernebeu this season, and could be a good signing for Tottenham, who see him as a possible new recruit at left-back with Benoit Assou-Ekotto and Danny Rose both likely to leave for Monaco and Sunderland respectively in the upcoming transfer window.

31. Kevin-Prince Boateng (AC Milan)



The former Spurs flop has gone on to become a great performer for Serie A side AC Milan, and is being linked with a move to Manchester City. This would be the latest move in an eventful career for the Ghanian international, who failed to impress as a youngster at Spurs and Borussia Dortmund before eventually catching Milan's eye when he was at Portsmouth. He is more mature and experienced now, and certainly ready to prove a big hit in the Premier League.

30. Mirko Vucinic (Juventus)



In what would be a slightly surprising signing, Manchester United could move for Juventus forward Mirko Vucinic to boost their strikeforce. The club are likely to have other targets, but remain fans of the Montenegro international who has been a regular goal scorer in Serie A for almost his entire career. He hasn't quite replicated his Roma form at Juventus, but he is still a talented forward capable of adding something to the Premier League champions. Juve are also quite happy to let him go, as they eye up a number of strikers this summer.

29. Nani (Manchester United)



It has been a highly disappointing year for Manchester United's Nani. Despite his side's title win, the Portuguese winger has not played any significant part, scoring just one goal and providing only two assists - a very poor return for an attacking player of his potential. The 26-year-old has been inconsistent and often frustrating in his time since joining from Sporting Lisbon, and is now surprisingly wanted by both Juventus and Real Madrid.

28. Javier Hernandez (Manchester United)



Javier Hernandez is another Manchester United squad player who is for some reason wanted by Juventus and Real Madrid. The Mexican has shown a great knack for finishing chances in his time at Old Trafford, but has not shown himself to be a very complete player, and has as a result fallen behind Danny Welbeck in the team's pecking order. Atletico Madrid have also been linked with the 24-year-old, who could be a good replacement for Radamel Falcao when he surely leaves Atletico this summer.

27. Andy Carroll (Liverpool)



West Ham are determined to keep loan star Andy Carroll on a permanent deal from Liverpool this summer, though they may not be able to pay the Reds' £17million asking price. Newcastle are also interested in bringing back their former player, who seemingly has no future at Anfield, just two years after the club paid a record £35million for him. Monaco have also been linked with a surprise move for the 24-year-old, and may be more able to meet Liverpool's estimations for him.

26. Sami Khedira (Real Madrid)



Jose Mourinho is reportedly planning to take German midfield enforcer Sami Khedira with him from Real Madrid to Chelsea this summer. The Portuguese coach initially signed the 26-year-old from Stuttgart when he took over at the Bernebeu and wants to do so again if he returns to Stamford Bridge. The Blues could do with a defensive midfielder of his kind, who would be an improvement on current options John Obi Mikel and Michael Essien.

25. Xabi Alonso (Real Madrid)



The former Liverpool midfielder could be set for a popular return to Anfield this summer from Real Madrid, though Chelsea are also interested. The 31-year-old playmaker would be a decent option for incoming Blues boss Mourinho if he fails to land Sami Khedira and Daniele De Rossi, and Liverpool could certainly do with adding his quality to their team, as they arguably never replaced him when he left the club in 2009. His raking passes and long range shots made him a hit in his first spell at the club, and they haven't enjoyed the same kind of success without him dictating the tempo in the heart of their team.

24. Carlos Tevez (Manchester City)



The controversial Manchester City striker has had an improved season this time round after finally seeming to resolve his differences with the management. However, he is still said to favour a move away from England, and Juventus and Monaco are ready to pounce for him this summer. The Argentine's talent will be missed in English football, but it may be time for him to move on and fulfill his potential somewhere where he'd be happier.

23. Edin Dzeko (Manchester City)



The Bosnian has only ever impressed in fits and starts for Manchester City since joining from Wolsburg in 2011, looking mostly like a flop who misses relatively easy chances. However, he was a lethal striker in his Bundesliga days and may be lured back there by Borussia Dortmund. He is also being watched by Serie A clubs Juventus and Fiorentina, though a move to Napoli in exchange for Edinson Cavani perhaps seems the most likely of the proposed deals.

22. Claudio Marchisio (Juventus)



The Italian midfielder has been at Juventus for his whole career, but could be on the move this summer as Manchester United see him as an ideal replacement for the retiring Paul Scholes. The hard-working box-to-box player has a good record of scoring goals from midfield and could certainly be a good option to fill that void.

21. Arturo Vidal (Juventus)



Although the Chilean has pledged his future to Juventus, this talented midfielder will surely attract bids from a number of clubs this summer. Manchester United may try for him if they don't land Marchisio, and they may be joined by Bayern Munich and Arsenal. The skillful playmaker has been a key part of Juve's success in the last two seasons, and it would be great to see him strutting his stuff in the Premier League.

20. David Luiz (Chelsea)



Barcelona have identified Chelsea's David Luiz as the ideal solution to their defensive problems this summer. Although not always renowned for being the most reliable and focused defender, the Brazilian has really grown as a player and a leader for the Blues this season. The 26-year-old would certainly suit Barca's style of play, as he is a technically gifted player who likes to pass the ball on the floor and get forward. The Catalans are said to be willing to offer as much as £35million for the former Benfica man, and although Chelsea don't exactly need the money, they could be tempted to invest even more in other areas of the squad. Much of this potential transfer will surely depend on what happens with Galatasaray target John Terry.

19. Stevan Jovetic (Fiorentina)



This transfer saga has gone on for a while, but it looks increasingly likely that Arsenal will sign Fiorentina striker Stevan Jovetic this summer. There have also been rumours that Juventus could attempt to hijack their bid, but La Viola will not want to sell their star player to a Serie A rival, which should push a deal through. According to various reports, he could cost anywhere between £15million and £25million, but he'll certainly be an excellent purchase for the Gunners.

18. Christian Benteke (Aston Villa)



Aston Villa will struggle to keep hold of Christian Benteke after his excellent form this season. The summer signing from Genk has made a real name for himself in the Premier League and will now surely invite a flurry of bids from the likes of Arsenal, Liverpool, Atletico Madrid and Borussia Dortmund. Villa are determined for him to stay, but after their season fighting relegation he might want to move on to bigger things, and he has shown he could improve any of the teams that hope to make a move for him.

17. Fernando Torres (Chelsea)



The £50million flop Fernando Torres will surely be shown the door by Chelsea this summer after failing to impress in his two and a half years at Stamford Bridge. The 29-year-old has looked like shadow of his former self ever since he arrived from Liverpool, and they will have to accept that this transfer has been a failure. Former club Atletico Madrid are said to be welcome to his return, and though he wants to stay and fight for his place at the club, he may not have a choice in the matter as Roman Abramovich plots big money moves for other targets.

16. Alexis Sanchez (Barcelona)



The Chilean winger has not looked at his best during his time at Barcelona since joining from Udinese. At that point, the 24-year-old was wanted by top clubs all around Europe, but now he could move on the cheap after failing to become more than a squad player at the Nou Camp. Sanchez can also play upfront and his talents are said to be tempting Arsenal, Liverpool, Juventus and Inter Milan. A return to Serie A might be best for the attacker, as that's where he seemed to initially find his best form, but he could also add something to the Premier League if he's given more of an opportunity to be a regular at a club.

15. David Villa (Barcelona)



The veteran Barcelona forward has had a tough time with injuries in recent seasons and has now fallen down the pecking order at the Nou Camp. However, he remains a talented finisher and is on the radar of a number of Premier League clubs. Manchester City have previously been linekd with him, and he supposedly came close to joining Arsenal in January, though it now seems likely to be a two-way tussle between Tottenham and Liverpool for the Spaniard. Both clubs need a striker, and though he would only be a short term option, he deserves another chance to prove himself after some slightly unfair treatment by the Catalan giants.

14. Marco Reus (Borussia Dortmund)



Marco Reus is apparently on Manuell Pellegrini's five-player transfer target shortlist for when he takes over at Manchester City this summer. Chelsea are also interested in the German forward, but City will supposedly launch a massive £35million bid to bring the 23-year-old to the Etihad Stadium. Reus has 19 goals for Dortmund this season and is one of many talented young players coming through in Germany at the moment, and one of many who could be on the way out of Champions League finalists Dortmund this summer.

13. Luka Modric (Real Madrid)



Although he was an undisputed star at Tottenham, £33million Luka Modric was voted the worst La Liga signing of last summer after failing to establish himself as a regular at Real Madrid. The 27-year-old has been in and out of the team at the Bernebeu this season, and after Real failed to win a single trophy he could be on the way out as the club undergo a summer shake up. Inter Milan have been linked with the Croatian, as have rivals AC Milan. A transfer flop last season, but hopefully not this time round as Modric still has plenty to offer to any team that gives him a chance.

12. Stephan El Shaarawy (AC Milan)



This young forward is one of the brightest prospects in Italian football, lighting up Serie A with his displays for AC Milan this season, finding himself among the league's top scorers at only 20 years of age. Arsenal were linked with a shock bid for him in January, though he is almost certainly out of their price range. Manchester City are also admirers of his, but the player himself has said he is happy to stay at the San Siro for his whole career.

11. Isco (Malaga)



Although this exciting young talent is sought after by most of Europe's top clubs, Manchester City look set to win the race for his signature now with the news that Manuel Pellegrini will leave Malaga and attempt to bring his star player with him to the Etihad Stadium. Chelsea and PSG will be disappointed to lose out on the 21-year-old, as his talent could certainly have a major say on where the Premier League title ends up next season. Amazingly, he could cost as little as £17million, which will be a bargain for a player who could be one of the best midfielders in the world for many years to come.

10. Neymar (Santos)



Brazilian sensation Neymar seems likely to join Barcelona this summer, as the Catalans have seemed to be leading the race for his signature for the last few months. In the last few days, however,  there looked like being some disagreement over the fee, and Barca's rivals Real Madrid will hope to push through a late deal for the 21-year-old. Neymar has already scored an incredible 136 goals in the first five years of his career at Santos, and will surely go on to be a world star wherever he ends up, and it is very unlikely that the Brazilian outfit will manage to keep him for much longer.

9. Gonzalo Higuain (Real Madrid)



Rather harshly placed on the transfer list by Real Madrid, it seems that a bid of £22million could land the talented Argentinian striker in this summer's transfer window. Arsenal are currently showing the strongest interest as they look to find a replacement for Robin van Persie, but Liverpool, Manchester City and Juventus are also keen on the 25-year-old, who has a good record of 120 goals in 264 appearances for Real Madrid.

8. Robert Lewandowski (Borussia Dortmund)



The Polish striker has been in phenomenal form this season, and looks set to leave Borussia Dortmund for rivals Bayern Munich this summer - after facing them in the Champions League final at Wembley. The likes of Manchester United and Chelsea will be disappointed to miss out on the 24-year-old hitman, but it appears that he will continue to terrorise Bundesliga defences at least for a few more years, in what should be a fantastic capture for the German champions.

7. Luis Suarez (Liverpool)



Despite being favourites to land Robert Lewandowski, Bayern Munich are also reportedly keen on Liverpool star Luis Suarez. The controversial Uruguayan has been in fantastic form this season, scoring 30 goals for the Reds and standing out as their best player. His displays along Brendan Rodgers' side's failure to secure Champions League football and silverware may mean he is tempted by a move to a bigger team, though he will certainly not come cheap. Barcelona are also said to be considering him as an alternative to Neymar if that deal does fall through.

6. Cesc Fabregas (Barcelona)



Cesc Fabregas fought long and hard to secure a move back to Barcelona from Arsenal, but things haven't worked out for the Spanish midfield playmaker at the Nou Camp. He has often been played out of position for the club, playing second fiddle to the likes of Xavi and Iniesta, and is unhappy with his role in the team. He has been linked with AC Milan and with a possible reunion with Pep Guardiola at Bayern Munich, and Arsenal of course have a buy-back clause in his contract that they may try to activate. However, he could also be subject to a surprise bid from Manchester United, who may look to link up the 26-year-old with his old Arsenal team mate Robin van Persie at Old Trafford, in what could be a devastating partnership.

5. Edinson Cavani (Napoli)



Regarded as one of the best strikers in the world, Edinson Cavani has been linked with almost every one over the last year, though it now looks likely to come down to either Chelsea or Manchester City in this summer's transfer window. The Uruguayan will command around £50million and whoever signs him will be very lucky, as he will surely only score more goals in Chelsea and City's lineups, given his terrific record with Napoli.

4. Radamel Falcao (Atletico Madrid)



Monaco emerged as surprise favourites to land in-demand Atletico Madrid striker Radamel Falcao a few days ago, though it is understood his future is still somewhat up in the air. Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea and Real Madrid have all been chasing the Colombian, who is one of the most lethal finishers in the game at the moment, scoring an excellent 34 goals in 40 games in all competitions for Diego Simeone's side this season.

3. Gareth Bale (Tottenham)



Tottenham are understandably determined to hold on to their star player Gareth Bale this summer, though with the club's failure to secure Champions League football, his excquisite strike against Sunderland today could be his final action as a Spurs player. The 23-year-old winger has developed into one of the world's best players in his six years at White Hart Lane, and is attracting interest from both Manchester United and Real Madrid, with the Spanish giants particularly keen to add the Welshman to their ranks. Real could offer as much as £65million for Bale as they look to wrestle the title back off rivals Barcelona next season.

2. Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid)



In what would be one of the moves of the summer, Cristiano Ronaldo has said he would be open to a return to his old club Manchester United. The Portuguese super star has fallen out with the management and the supporters at Real Madrid, despite an incredible few years at the Bernebeu, scoring an amazing 201 goals in 199 games for the club since they bought him for a record-breaking £80million from the Red Devils. With Real determined to sign Bale, the Spurs star could be brought in as a decent replacement, as the sale of Ronaldo would surely help fund the move. They want around £60million as well as players in return, most likely to be Nani and Javier Hernandez, and this move would endear David Moyes to the United fans very quickly indeed.

1. Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)



Wayne Rooney's transfer request to Manchester United is sure to get big clubs from all over Europe swarming. Although his desire to leave was only recently announced, he has already attracted enquiries from Real Madrid, Barcelona, PSG, Bayern Munich, Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester City. Chelsea currently seems like the most likely destination for the England star, who would end a nine-year association with United if he leaves. The 27-year-old should perhaps take the opportunity to move on though, as he has become something of a utility player at Old Trafford, and his talent certainly deserves more.

]]> http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/19/top-100-summer-transfer-window-targets/feed/ 0 Mark BrusSun, 19 May 13 22:45:10 +0000Top 100 players who are being targeted for moves in this summer's transfer window. http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/18/top-ten-serie-a-players-who-could-make-summer-transfers-to-the-premier-league/ http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/18/top-ten-serie-a-players-who-could-make-summer-transfers-to-the-premier-league/#comments Sat, 18 May 2013 20:40:59 +0000 Mark Brus http://www.caughtoffside.com/?p=145486 Ten players who could swap Italy for England in this summer's transfer window.

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10. Angelo Ogbonna (Torino)

The Italian centre-back has earned rave reviews for his performances with Torino this season, and as well as being chased by the bigger teams in Italy, he is said to be a target for Premier League trio Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal. The 24-year-old is a solid and competitive defender and a full Italian international, and is set for big things in the game.





9. Mathieu Flamini (AC Milan)

The former Arsenal man has had a difficult time in Italy after joining Milan on a free transfer from the Gunners. The 29-year-old could leave on a free once again, as his contract expires at the end of the season. Arsenal have unsurprisingly been linked with a return for a player who looked to be developing into a top defensive midfielder under Arsene Wenger, but his recent poor form is more likely to see him go to Aston Villa or Southampton, two clubs who are said to be showing an interest in the Frenchman.





8. Adem Ljajic (Fiorentina)

This talented 21-year-old was close to joining Manchester United from former club Partizan Belgrade in 2010, but the Red Devils pulled out of the deal and he moved to Serie A with Fiorentina. Three years later he is regarded as one of the best young players in the Italian league and is being targeted by the likes of Chelsea. The Serbian can play in a variety of attacking positions, either out wide or upfront, and could still make a move to England in the near future.





7. Alvaro Pereira (Inter Milan)

The former Porto left-back is reportedly a target for Tottenham, as manager Andre Villas-Boas worked with Pereira during their time at Porto. The 27-year-old has not been a regular for Inter Milan, and Spurs may pounce as they see him as the best replacement for Benoit Assou-Ekotto and Danny Rose, two left-sided defenders who are expected to be sold this summer. The Portuguese coach also tried to sign the Uruguayan when he was at Chelsea, so he's clearly a fan and will surely bring him to the Premier League eventually.





6. Hernanes (Lazio)

This talented Brazilian midfielder is supposedly one of Manchester City's main transfer targets this summer. The 27-year-old has a great reputation in Italy since joining Lazio in 2010, showing himself to be a great playmaker and goal-scoring midfielder, reaching double figures in each of this three seasons with the club. His thunderous shots with his powerful right foot would certainly go down a treat at the Etihad Stadium next season.





5. Claudio Marchisio (Juventus)

Manchester United are said to be keen on Claudio Marchisio as a replacement for the retiring Paul Scholes. The Italian midfielder is a similar type of box-to-box player as Scholes, and has always been a reliable source of goals during his time with Juventus. He is a key player for the Serie A champions, so he won't come cheap, but United are ready to offer around £30million for his services, and are supposedly keen on his team-mate Arturo Vidal as well.





4. Erik Lamela (Roma)

Tottenham and both Manchester clubs are watching the progress of Roma's Erik Lamela. The 21-year-old Argentine initially struggled when he moved to Serie A from Argentina's River Plate, but has hit his best form this season with 15 goals and 4 assists. This young talent can operate as a striker or just behind, and definitely has the ability to add something to both of these Premier League title challengers.





3. Kevin-Prince Boateng (AC Milan)

The German-born Ghana international has had a strange career, but is finally emerging as a top talent in Serie A with AC Milan. The 26-year-old was brought to Tottenham as an exciting prospect in 2007, but failed to make the grade at White Hart Lane. He had a failed loan spell at Borussia Dortmund and then made the move to Portsmouth, where he caught the eye in his single season with the club, helping them reach the FA Cup final. Milan then moved for him and he has slotted in well, and is now thought to be attracting Manchester City and Arsenal, so a return to the Premier League could be on the cards.





2. Stevan Jovetic (Fiorentina)

The talented 23-year-old has been linked strongly with Arsenal all summer, and could complete a move to the Gunners in the coming weeks. Manchester City were also interested in the skillful Montenegro forward, who has caught the eye over the last couple of seasons in Serie A with Fiorentina. Juventus will aim to keep him in Italy with a £25million bid, but La Viola will be keen not to sell to a rival, and should see to it that he joins Arsenal.





1. Edinson Cavani (Napoli)

Serie A's leading goal scorer is surely set for a summer exit after an impressive few years with Napoli and previously Palermo. Edinson Cavani is wanted by many of Europe's top clubs, but a move to England seems likely with Manchester City and Chelsea both desperate to secure his signature this summer. He will cost close to £50million, but looks well worth it as he could fire whoever manages to get him to the Premier League title next season. Even Sunderland have been rumoured to have made an audacious bid for him!

]]> Ten players who could swap Italy for England in this summer's transfer window.

Check in to Tottenham Hotspur vs Sunderland



10. Angelo Ogbonna (Torino)

The Italian centre-back has earned rave reviews for his performances with Torino this season, and as well as being chased by the bigger teams in Italy, he is said to be a target for Premier League trio Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal. The 24-year-old is a solid and competitive defender and a full Italian international, and is set for big things in the game.





9. Mathieu Flamini (AC Milan)

The former Arsenal man has had a difficult time in Italy after joining Milan on a free transfer from the Gunners. The 29-year-old could leave on a free once again, as his contract expires at the end of the season. Arsenal have unsurprisingly been linked with a return for a player who looked to be developing into a top defensive midfielder under Arsene Wenger, but his recent poor form is more likely to see him go to Aston Villa or Southampton, two clubs who are said to be showing an interest in the Frenchman.





8. Adem Ljajic (Fiorentina)

This talented 21-year-old was close to joining Manchester United from former club Partizan Belgrade in 2010, but the Red Devils pulled out of the deal and he moved to Serie A with Fiorentina. Three years later he is regarded as one of the best young players in the Italian league and is being targeted by the likes of Chelsea. The Serbian can play in a variety of attacking positions, either out wide or upfront, and could still make a move to England in the near future.





7. Alvaro Pereira (Inter Milan)

The former Porto left-back is reportedly a target for Tottenham, as manager Andre Villas-Boas worked with Pereira during their time at Porto. The 27-year-old has not been a regular for Inter Milan, and Spurs may pounce as they see him as the best replacement for Benoit Assou-Ekotto and Danny Rose, two left-sided defenders who are expected to be sold this summer. The Portuguese coach also tried to sign the Uruguayan when he was at Chelsea, so he's clearly a fan and will surely bring him to the Premier League eventually.





6. Hernanes (Lazio)

This talented Brazilian midfielder is supposedly one of Manchester City's main transfer targets this summer. The 27-year-old has a great reputation in Italy since joining Lazio in 2010, showing himself to be a great playmaker and goal-scoring midfielder, reaching double figures in each of this three seasons with the club. His thunderous shots with his powerful right foot would certainly go down a treat at the Etihad Stadium next season.





5. Claudio Marchisio (Juventus)

Manchester United are said to be keen on Claudio Marchisio as a replacement for the retiring Paul Scholes. The Italian midfielder is a similar type of box-to-box player as Scholes, and has always been a reliable source of goals during his time with Juventus. He is a key player for the Serie A champions, so he won't come cheap, but United are ready to offer around £30million for his services, and are supposedly keen on his team-mate Arturo Vidal as well.





4. Erik Lamela (Roma)

Tottenham and both Manchester clubs are watching the progress of Roma's Erik Lamela. The 21-year-old Argentine initially struggled when he moved to Serie A from Argentina's River Plate, but has hit his best form this season with 15 goals and 4 assists. This young talent can operate as a striker or just behind, and definitely has the ability to add something to both of these Premier League title challengers.





3. Kevin-Prince Boateng (AC Milan)

The German-born Ghana international has had a strange career, but is finally emerging as a top talent in Serie A with AC Milan. The 26-year-old was brought to Tottenham as an exciting prospect in 2007, but failed to make the grade at White Hart Lane. He had a failed loan spell at Borussia Dortmund and then made the move to Portsmouth, where he caught the eye in his single season with the club, helping them reach the FA Cup final. Milan then moved for him and he has slotted in well, and is now thought to be attracting Manchester City and Arsenal, so a return to the Premier League could be on the cards.





2. Stevan Jovetic (Fiorentina)

The talented 23-year-old has been linked strongly with Arsenal all summer, and could complete a move to the Gunners in the coming weeks. Manchester City were also interested in the skillful Montenegro forward, who has caught the eye over the last couple of seasons in Serie A with Fiorentina. Juventus will aim to keep him in Italy with a £25million bid, but La Viola will be keen not to sell to a rival, and should see to it that he joins Arsenal.





1. Edinson Cavani (Napoli)

Serie A's leading goal scorer is surely set for a summer exit after an impressive few years with Napoli and previously Palermo. Edinson Cavani is wanted by many of Europe's top clubs, but a move to England seems likely with Manchester City and Chelsea both desperate to secure his signature this summer. He will cost close to £50million, but looks well worth it as he could fire whoever manages to get him to the Premier League title next season. Even Sunderland have been rumoured to have made an audacious bid for him!

]]> http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/18/top-ten-serie-a-players-who-could-make-summer-transfers-to-the-premier-league/feed/ 0 Mark BrusSat, 18 May 13 21:40:59 +0000Ten players who could swap Italy for England in this summer's transfer window. http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/18/top-ten-most-memorable-moments-of-david-beckhams-career/ http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/18/top-ten-most-memorable-moments-of-david-beckhams-career/#comments Sat, 18 May 2013 13:25:55 +0000 Mark Brus http://www.caughtoffside.com/?p=145567 Ten highs and lows in the memorable career of David Beckham.



Check in to PSG vs Brest



Goal from half-way line against Wimbledon

Promising Manchester United youngster David Beckham announces himself to the world with a superb lob from the half way line over Wimbledon goalkeeper Neil Sullivan on the opening day of the 1996/97 season. The 21-year-old went on to establish himself as a regular in the United side that year, helping them to the Premier League title and winning PFA Young Player of the Year. His excellent strike against Wimbledon is still regarded as one of the best ever goals scored in the Premier League and has been voted number 18 in a list of 100 Greatest Sporting Moments.

His excellent technique and eye for goal with his right foot would go on to be one of the most defining qualities of his career. He was one of many exciting young players coming through at United at that point, alongside the likes of Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and the Neville brothers, though it didn't take long for him to stand out as something special and unique altogether.



Red card in 1998 World Cup

Beckham's fine form for United soon led to him being an England regular, but he made himself unpopular with the England fans after lashing out at Argentina's Diego Simeone and getting himself a red card. Glen Hoddle's side went on to lose on penalties, with Beckham taking a large share of the blame for the defeat due to his moment of madness. There was speculation following this incident that he would leave Manchester United for a move abroad, but he decided to stay, despite often being booed by fans at Premier League opposition grounds around the country.





Treble win with Manchester United

David Beckham was back to his best the following season, and formed an important part of the United side that won an historic treble in 1999. He scored an important goal in the team's FA Cup semi-final against Arsenal, and also an equaliser against Tottenham that helped United on their way to winning the league, but crucially, it was his two corner kicks that led to two stoppage time goals from Teddy Sheringham and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to turn the Champions League final against Bayern Munich on its head and seal the treble.

He had still not quite earned forgiveness from a section of England supporters at this stage, but he was soon named captain of the national side and things started to turn in his favour. He would hold this role as national team skipper until 2006.



Free kick against Greece

As well as his incredible goal against Wimbledon, this last-minute free kick against Greece to send England to the 2002 World Cup is one of the goals of his career. With England trailing 2-1 at home to Greece and needing a point to secure qualification for the World Cup in Korea and Japan, the England captain stepped up under huge pressure and won over the country's fans with a superb curling free kick. Shortly afterwards, he was voted the BBC Sports Personality of the Year for 2001. He also finished runner-up to Portugal's Luís Figo for the FIFA World Player of the Year award.





Penalty against Argentina

A fine moment in Beckham's career as he finds redemption for his red card four years earlier, driving home a penalty and winning goal in England's 1-0 win over Argentina in the 2002 World Cup group stages. This goal also meant that their rivals were condemned to a shock early exit from the competition. The England captain generally impresses during the tournament, though his side are eliminated in a close game at the quarter-final stage, losing 2-1 to eventual winners Brazil.



Fall-out with Ferguson

Beckham's long stay at Old Trafford looked under threat following a high-profile falling out with United manager Sir Alex Ferguson. The England captain bore the brunt of Fergie's aggression after a 2-0 defeat to Arsenal in the FA Cup, with the United boss allegedly kicking a boot at Beckham and leaving him with a cut above his left eye. Beckham later played down the incident, saying it was an accident. Ferguson refused to comment, but it was clear that their relationship was turning sour.

The midfielder spent much of the rest of the season on the bench for United, and speculation grew that he would leave the club in the summer. He eventually made a £25million move to Spanish giants Real Madrid, becoming the latest in the line of the club's 'Galactico' signings alongside the likes of Zinedine Zidane and Ronaldo, ending a ten-year association with Manchester United.





Wins La Liga title with Real Madrid

With the rise of Barcelona in La Liga, it took some time for Beckham to find success in Spain, but it finally came in 2007 when Real Madrid won La Liga on the final day of the season with a 3-1 win over Real Mallorca. Beckham had already made plans to leave at the end of the season, causing him to fall out favour with Real manager Fabio Capello for much of the season, though he regained his place towards the end of the campaign.

Beckham started the match against Mallorca, but it was his substitute Jose Antonio Reyes who won the game with two late goals after coming off the bench to replace the limping Beckham. His time in Spain was perhaps not as he might have wished it to have been, but Beckham ensured that his time in Spain ended in success, justifying his decision to leave United.



Makes big move to MLS

The now world-famous midfielder made a somewhat surprising move to the United States, joining MLS side LA Galaxy in a bid to raise the profile of the game in America. The then 31-year-old signed a five-year deal, reportedly worth £128million, and spent a good five years with the club, helping them to two MLS cups. He seemed to miss European football though, making two loan moves to Serie A side AC Milan and attempting to push through a permanent transfer, as he also feared for his place in the England team, due to the lower level of football in the US. He showed he still had quality with his displays in Italy, and kept himself in contention for an England place under Fabio Capello, his former boss at Real Madrid.





Misses 2010 World Cup through injury

A real low point for Beckham came in March 2010, as he suffered an injury to his Achilles tendon, putting him out for six months and meaning he would miss what would surely be his last chance of playing in a World Cup. The midfielder still joined up with the squad in the tournament in South Africa, watching from the sidelines in a kind of coaching capacity, working as a mediator between the players and the coaching staff. He would not play for the national side again, but can proudly claim to be the country's most capped outfield player, with 115 appearances and 17 goals in a memorable thirteen years with England.



Wins Ligue 1 title with PSG

Beckham's last big move came this January as he signed a five year contract with French giants PSG. He rejoined with his former Milan boss Carlo Ancelotti in Paris after his deal with LA Galaxy expired. The move saw Beckham appear in the Champions League again, putting in a strong display in the club's 2-2 quarter-final draw with Barcelona. It was thought that the former United and England star would carry on playing for one more season, but the 38-year-old announced his retirement from the game after helping the French side to the Ligue 1 title, making it four league titles in four different countries for one of the game's most famous players.

He has had some critics over the years, but there's no denying that he has brought success to wherever he has gone, and has always remained a focused and committed professional despite his superstar status off the pitch. He joins fellow legends Paul Scholes and Sir Alex Ferguson in retirement this summer, making it feel like a real end of an era in football.

]]> Ten highs and lows in the memorable career of David Beckham.



Check in to PSG vs Brest



Goal from half-way line against Wimbledon

Promising Manchester United youngster David Beckham announces himself to the world with a superb lob from the half way line over Wimbledon goalkeeper Neil Sullivan on the opening day of the 1996/97 season. The 21-year-old went on to establish himself as a regular in the United side that year, helping them to the Premier League title and winning PFA Young Player of the Year. His excellent strike against Wimbledon is still regarded as one of the best ever goals scored in the Premier League and has been voted number 18 in a list of 100 Greatest Sporting Moments.

His excellent technique and eye for goal with his right foot would go on to be one of the most defining qualities of his career. He was one of many exciting young players coming through at United at that point, alongside the likes of Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and the Neville brothers, though it didn't take long for him to stand out as something special and unique altogether.



Red card in 1998 World Cup

Beckham's fine form for United soon led to him being an England regular, but he made himself unpopular with the England fans after lashing out at Argentina's Diego Simeone and getting himself a red card. Glen Hoddle's side went on to lose on penalties, with Beckham taking a large share of the blame for the defeat due to his moment of madness. There was speculation following this incident that he would leave Manchester United for a move abroad, but he decided to stay, despite often being booed by fans at Premier League opposition grounds around the country.





Treble win with Manchester United

David Beckham was back to his best the following season, and formed an important part of the United side that won an historic treble in 1999. He scored an important goal in the team's FA Cup semi-final against Arsenal, and also an equaliser against Tottenham that helped United on their way to winning the league, but crucially, it was his two corner kicks that led to two stoppage time goals from Teddy Sheringham and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to turn the Champions League final against Bayern Munich on its head and seal the treble.

He had still not quite earned forgiveness from a section of England supporters at this stage, but he was soon named captain of the national side and things started to turn in his favour. He would hold this role as national team skipper until 2006.



Free kick against Greece

As well as his incredible goal against Wimbledon, this last-minute free kick against Greece to send England to the 2002 World Cup is one of the goals of his career. With England trailing 2-1 at home to Greece and needing a point to secure qualification for the World Cup in Korea and Japan, the England captain stepped up under huge pressure and won over the country's fans with a superb curling free kick. Shortly afterwards, he was voted the BBC Sports Personality of the Year for 2001. He also finished runner-up to Portugal's Luís Figo for the FIFA World Player of the Year award.





Penalty against Argentina

A fine moment in Beckham's career as he finds redemption for his red card four years earlier, driving home a penalty and winning goal in England's 1-0 win over Argentina in the 2002 World Cup group stages. This goal also meant that their rivals were condemned to a shock early exit from the competition. The England captain generally impresses during the tournament, though his side are eliminated in a close game at the quarter-final stage, losing 2-1 to eventual winners Brazil.



Fall-out with Ferguson

Beckham's long stay at Old Trafford looked under threat following a high-profile falling out with United manager Sir Alex Ferguson. The England captain bore the brunt of Fergie's aggression after a 2-0 defeat to Arsenal in the FA Cup, with the United boss allegedly kicking a boot at Beckham and leaving him with a cut above his left eye. Beckham later played down the incident, saying it was an accident. Ferguson refused to comment, but it was clear that their relationship was turning sour.

The midfielder spent much of the rest of the season on the bench for United, and speculation grew that he would leave the club in the summer. He eventually made a £25million move to Spanish giants Real Madrid, becoming the latest in the line of the club's 'Galactico' signings alongside the likes of Zinedine Zidane and Ronaldo, ending a ten-year association with Manchester United.





Wins La Liga title with Real Madrid

With the rise of Barcelona in La Liga, it took some time for Beckham to find success in Spain, but it finally came in 2007 when Real Madrid won La Liga on the final day of the season with a 3-1 win over Real Mallorca. Beckham had already made plans to leave at the end of the season, causing him to fall out favour with Real manager Fabio Capello for much of the season, though he regained his place towards the end of the campaign.

Beckham started the match against Mallorca, but it was his substitute Jose Antonio Reyes who won the game with two late goals after coming off the bench to replace the limping Beckham. His time in Spain was perhaps not as he might have wished it to have been, but Beckham ensured that his time in Spain ended in success, justifying his decision to leave United.



Makes big move to MLS

The now world-famous midfielder made a somewhat surprising move to the United States, joining MLS side LA Galaxy in a bid to raise the profile of the game in America. The then 31-year-old signed a five-year deal, reportedly worth £128million, and spent a good five years with the club, helping them to two MLS cups. He seemed to miss European football though, making two loan moves to Serie A side AC Milan and attempting to push through a permanent transfer, as he also feared for his place in the England team, due to the lower level of football in the US. He showed he still had quality with his displays in Italy, and kept himself in contention for an England place under Fabio Capello, his former boss at Real Madrid.





Misses 2010 World Cup through injury

A real low point for Beckham came in March 2010, as he suffered an injury to his Achilles tendon, putting him out for six months and meaning he would miss what would surely be his last chance of playing in a World Cup. The midfielder still joined up with the squad in the tournament in South Africa, watching from the sidelines in a kind of coaching capacity, working as a mediator between the players and the coaching staff. He would not play for the national side again, but can proudly claim to be the country's most capped outfield player, with 115 appearances and 17 goals in a memorable thirteen years with England.



Wins Ligue 1 title with PSG

Beckham's last big move came this January as he signed a five year contract with French giants PSG. He rejoined with his former Milan boss Carlo Ancelotti in Paris after his deal with LA Galaxy expired. The move saw Beckham appear in the Champions League again, putting in a strong display in the club's 2-2 quarter-final draw with Barcelona. It was thought that the former United and England star would carry on playing for one more season, but the 38-year-old announced his retirement from the game after helping the French side to the Ligue 1 title, making it four league titles in four different countries for one of the game's most famous players.

He has had some critics over the years, but there's no denying that he has brought success to wherever he has gone, and has always remained a focused and committed professional despite his superstar status off the pitch. He joins fellow legends Paul Scholes and Sir Alex Ferguson in retirement this summer, making it feel like a real end of an era in football.

]]> http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/18/top-ten-most-memorable-moments-of-david-beckhams-career/feed/ 0 Mark BrusSat, 18 May 13 14:25:55 +0000Ten highs and lows in the memorable career of David Beckham. http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/17/ten-highlights-of-rafael-benitezs-managerial-career/ http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/17/ten-highlights-of-rafael-benitezs-managerial-career/#comments Fri, 17 May 2013 17:12:23 +0000 Mark Brus http://www.caughtoffside.com/?p=145402 A look at the top ten achievements in the career of Rafael Benitez.



Check in to Chelsea vs Everton

Wins promotion with Spanish second division side Extremadura

Rafa's first success following spells with the Real Madrid youth team is with Spanish Segunda Division side Extremadura, whom he helps to promotion to La Liga in 1998 with a second place finish in the table. However, they lasted just won season in the top flight, losing a relegation playoff after finishing 17th the following year.

Wins another promotion to La Liga, this time with CD Tenerife


After quitting Extremadura, Benitez took some time out of the game to study, but returned in the 2000/01 season to win yet another promotion from the Segunda Division to La Liga, this time with CD Tenerife. His side finished 3rd in the table and his work attracted the interests of Valencia, who appointed him as their manager the following season to replace Hector Cuper.

First La Liga title with Valencia


Benitez brought immediate success to the Mestalla, defying the odds to win the club's first La Liga title in thirty-one years, finishing seven points ahead of Deportivo La Coruna - different times in Spanish football indeed! His side earned a reputation for playing a good brand of attacking football, with big-name players such as David Albelda, Vicente and Pablo Aimar.



Another La Liga title success

Rafa's first title win was followed up with a disappointing fifth place finish the following year, but it did not take long for the Spaniard to lead the club back to the top with his second La Liga title in the 2003/04 season, finishing five points ahead of Barcelona, who were just starting to build a team that was set to dominate for years to come.

UEFA Cup glory

Valencia added the UEFA Cup to their trophy cabinet that season as well, as Benitez's side beat a Marseille side containing Didier Drogba in the final. Despite this excellent season, Benitez quit the club following a dispute with the club's director of football Jesus Garcia Pitarch. Many top clubs were alerted after this highly-rated manager's availability.



Appointed manager of Liverpool


Liverpool were on the lookout for a new manager in 2004, and turned to Rafael Benitez after in-demand Porto boss Jose Mourinho went to Chelsea. Benitez was a popular second choice though, and he did his first job of managing to persuade star player Steven Gerrard to stay at the club. He also brought in some promising signings from La Liga, most notably Xabi Alonso from Real Sociedad, and Luis Garcia from Barcelona.



Champions League glory


After defeat to Chelsea in the Carling Cup final and an inconsistent season in the league, where they finished 5th, Liverpool needed to win the Champions League to have any hope of qualifying for it next year. Benitez's unfancied side forced their way to the final following a hard-fought semi-final win over Mourinho's Chelsea, but looked dead and buried against favourites AC Milan, trailing 3-0 at half time. However, an incredible second half comeback to make it 3-3 brought the Spaniard one of his finest hours as a manager, as his side triumphed on penalties to lift the Champions League trophy against all the odds.

Wins FA Cup with Liverpool


Benitez followed up his first season success with another trophy in 2006. Again his side showed great resilience to stage a comeback, and again it was a penalty shoot-out win after a 3-3 draw, this time with West Ham. It would be the last major silverware of his Anfield career, as he failed to live up to his early success in his following years at the club.



Appointed manager of Inter Milan

Despite finishing 7th and being sacked after a poor final season with Liverpool, Benitez was chosen by Inter Milan to replace his old rival Mourinho, who had just won an historic treble with the club. Despite two trophies (the Super Cup and Club World Cup) Benitez did not last long in the job, after turning the same set of players who had looked like world beaters just months earlier into a joke.



Wins Europa League with Chelsea

Benitez's latest success comes at Chelsea, after a difficult few months in charge of the club as interim manager. The Spaniard was an unpopular choice to replace Roberto Di Matteo due to his Liverpool connections, but in his penultimate game in charge he may have finally turned them around, with an impressive 2-1 win over Benfica in the Europa League final. He has also left them in good shape for next season, securing what is likely to be a 3rd place finish in the Premier League, meaning automatic qualification for the Champions League next year.

]]> A look at the top ten achievements in the career of Rafael Benitez.



Check in to Chelsea vs Everton

Wins promotion with Spanish second division side Extremadura

Rafa's first success following spells with the Real Madrid youth team is with Spanish Segunda Division side Extremadura, whom he helps to promotion to La Liga in 1998 with a second place finish in the table. However, they lasted just won season in the top flight, losing a relegation playoff after finishing 17th the following year.

Wins another promotion to La Liga, this time with CD Tenerife


After quitting Extremadura, Benitez took some time out of the game to study, but returned in the 2000/01 season to win yet another promotion from the Segunda Division to La Liga, this time with CD Tenerife. His side finished 3rd in the table and his work attracted the interests of Valencia, who appointed him as their manager the following season to replace Hector Cuper.

First La Liga title with Valencia


Benitez brought immediate success to the Mestalla, defying the odds to win the club's first La Liga title in thirty-one years, finishing seven points ahead of Deportivo La Coruna - different times in Spanish football indeed! His side earned a reputation for playing a good brand of attacking football, with big-name players such as David Albelda, Vicente and Pablo Aimar.



Another La Liga title success

Rafa's first title win was followed up with a disappointing fifth place finish the following year, but it did not take long for the Spaniard to lead the club back to the top with his second La Liga title in the 2003/04 season, finishing five points ahead of Barcelona, who were just starting to build a team that was set to dominate for years to come.

UEFA Cup glory

Valencia added the UEFA Cup to their trophy cabinet that season as well, as Benitez's side beat a Marseille side containing Didier Drogba in the final. Despite this excellent season, Benitez quit the club following a dispute with the club's director of football Jesus Garcia Pitarch. Many top clubs were alerted after this highly-rated manager's availability.



Appointed manager of Liverpool


Liverpool were on the lookout for a new manager in 2004, and turned to Rafael Benitez after in-demand Porto boss Jose Mourinho went to Chelsea. Benitez was a popular second choice though, and he did his first job of managing to persuade star player Steven Gerrard to stay at the club. He also brought in some promising signings from La Liga, most notably Xabi Alonso from Real Sociedad, and Luis Garcia from Barcelona.



Champions League glory


After defeat to Chelsea in the Carling Cup final and an inconsistent season in the league, where they finished 5th, Liverpool needed to win the Champions League to have any hope of qualifying for it next year. Benitez's unfancied side forced their way to the final following a hard-fought semi-final win over Mourinho's Chelsea, but looked dead and buried against favourites AC Milan, trailing 3-0 at half time. However, an incredible second half comeback to make it 3-3 brought the Spaniard one of his finest hours as a manager, as his side triumphed on penalties to lift the Champions League trophy against all the odds.

Wins FA Cup with Liverpool


Benitez followed up his first season success with another trophy in 2006. Again his side showed great resilience to stage a comeback, and again it was a penalty shoot-out win after a 3-3 draw, this time with West Ham. It would be the last major silverware of his Anfield career, as he failed to live up to his early success in his following years at the club.



Appointed manager of Inter Milan

Despite finishing 7th and being sacked after a poor final season with Liverpool, Benitez was chosen by Inter Milan to replace his old rival Mourinho, who had just won an historic treble with the club. Despite two trophies (the Super Cup and Club World Cup) Benitez did not last long in the job, after turning the same set of players who had looked like world beaters just months earlier into a joke.



Wins Europa League with Chelsea

Benitez's latest success comes at Chelsea, after a difficult few months in charge of the club as interim manager. The Spaniard was an unpopular choice to replace Roberto Di Matteo due to his Liverpool connections, but in his penultimate game in charge he may have finally turned them around, with an impressive 2-1 win over Benfica in the Europa League final. He has also left them in good shape for next season, securing what is likely to be a 3rd place finish in the Premier League, meaning automatic qualification for the Champions League next year.

]]> http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/17/ten-highlights-of-rafael-benitezs-managerial-career/feed/ 0 Mark BrusFri, 17 May 13 18:12:23 +0000A look at the top ten achievements in the career of Rafael Benitez. http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/16/chelsea-set-for-mammoth-100m-summer-spending-spree-five-main-targets/ http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/16/chelsea-set-for-mammoth-100m-summer-spending-spree-five-main-targets/#comments Thu, 16 May 2013 19:15:37 +0000 Mr Comfort http://www.caughtoffside.com/?p=145409 Five big-name players that could join Chelsea in Jose Mourinho's £100million summer spending spree.

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The Daily Mail claims that Rafa Benitez has stated that the man who follows him as Chelsea's permanent manager this summer will get a hefty £100m transfer war-chest.

The Spaniard even added that three or four targets had already been earmarked, here are five names who could well be under consideration when Roman Abramovich sits down with the next Chelsea boss, who is of course expected to be Jose Mourinho.



5. Andre Schurrle (Bayer Leverkusen)

Chelsea will probably start their summer of big spending with Germany international Andre Schurrle. Reports strongly suggest that this transfer will go through soon. The talented Bayer Leverkusen winger has been watched by Chelsea for some time and has lit up the Bundesliga with his displays this season, becoming the latest in the long line of highly rated young players coming through in German football at the moment.

The 22-year-old has 13 goals and 8 assists this season and for £20million will give Chelsea more options both out wide and upfront, where they are somewhat lacking in goals from unreliable and off-form pair Fernando Torres and Demba Ba. Chelsea youngster Kevin De Bruyne could also help move a deal along by moving in the other direction, though the attacking midfielder is also wanted by Borussia Dortmund.





4. Sami Khedira (Real Madrid)

The German midfielder has been a key performer for Real Madrid since joining the club from Stuttgart in 2010, and if Jose Mourinho takes over at Chelsea he is keen to bring the 26-year-old with him to Stamford Bridge from the Bernebeu. With the club likely to sell the injury-prone Michael Essien in the summer, they will be on the lookout for a defensive midfielder like Khedira to offer an alternative to the likes of John Obi Mikel and Ramires. He won't come cheap, but would be a good option for the team even at around £25million.

Roma's Daniele De Rossi has also been linked as the club's solution for this position, but with Mourinho preferring Khedira, it seems like the most likely move. His Real team-mate Xabi Alonso has also been linked with following Mourinho to West London, but the former Liverpool playmaker has committed his future to the Spanish giants.





3. Marouane Fellaini (Everton)

The Belgian midfielder has been in tremendous form for Everton this season, helping the club push for a top four spot with some towering displays and eleven league goals from the middle of the park. At 25 years of age is now approaching his peak and may be just the kind of physical and aggressive player that Mourinho likes.

Everton are determined to keep hold of him, and will fight off interest from David Moyes, who has just been announced as leaving the club for Manchester United and is being linked with a raid on Goodison Park for players such as Fellaini and Leighton Baines. However, Fellaini would arguably suit Chelsea's style of play better than United's, and could almost replicate the job Didier Drogba used to do for the club, albeit from a deeper position. His physical presence, hold-up play and aerial threat could be a useful alternative in a side currently consisting mostly of small and skillful players.





2. Edinson Cavani (Napoli)

The Uruguayan is one of the most sought-after players in Europe at the moment following a fine few years with Napoli. Manchester City are Chelsea's main competition for the prolific striker, but their current uncertainty over hiring a new manager could slow the process down and give Chelsea the advantage. Robert Lewandowski and Radamel Falcao had also been targets for the Blues, but both now look unavailable, with Lewandowski choosing a move to Borussia Dortmund's rivals Bayern Munich, and Falcao switching Atletico Madrid for a big-money move to French outfit Monaco.

Cavani is now the club's main target to replace £50million flop Fernando Torres, who will surely leave the club in the summer after failing to rediscover his best form at Stamford Bridge. Cavani would cost close to the same as Roman Abramovich paid for Torres, but is coming at the peak of his game and seems far less likely to disappoint. The lethal finisher should have a good time finding the back of the net in the Premier League, feeding off the great service from creative players Juan Mata, Eden Hazard and Oscar behind him.





1. Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)

In what would be a sensational move, the biggest rumours at the moment now point to Chelsea being the next destination of unwanted Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney. If the Blues miss out on their main target Edinson Cavani, they could turn to the England striker to be their long-term Didier Drogba replacement. Bayern had been linked with the 27-year-old, but then denied the rumours, and there aren't many other clubs that could afford his high wages.

Although United would rather not sell to another English club, they are certainly not planning on keeping Rooney after some poor displays this season and his submitted transfer request. This would be something of a shock, but it who better to get one of the most talked about names in football back to his best than Jose Mourinho? Due to his problems at United, he could come surprisingly cheap as well, with £25million being a great price for a player of such potential.


]]> Five big-name players that could join Chelsea in Jose Mourinho's £100million summer spending spree.

Check in to Chelsea vs Everton

The Daily Mail claims that Rafa Benitez has stated that the man who follows him as Chelsea's permanent manager this summer will get a hefty £100m transfer war-chest.

The Spaniard even added that three or four targets had already been earmarked, here are five names who could well be under consideration when Roman Abramovich sits down with the next Chelsea boss, who is of course expected to be Jose Mourinho.



5. Andre Schurrle (Bayer Leverkusen)

Chelsea will probably start their summer of big spending with Germany international Andre Schurrle. Reports strongly suggest that this transfer will go through soon. The talented Bayer Leverkusen winger has been watched by Chelsea for some time and has lit up the Bundesliga with his displays this season, becoming the latest in the long line of highly rated young players coming through in German football at the moment.

The 22-year-old has 13 goals and 8 assists this season and for £20million will give Chelsea more options both out wide and upfront, where they are somewhat lacking in goals from unreliable and off-form pair Fernando Torres and Demba Ba. Chelsea youngster Kevin De Bruyne could also help move a deal along by moving in the other direction, though the attacking midfielder is also wanted by Borussia Dortmund.





4. Sami Khedira (Real Madrid)

The German midfielder has been a key performer for Real Madrid since joining the club from Stuttgart in 2010, and if Jose Mourinho takes over at Chelsea he is keen to bring the 26-year-old with him to Stamford Bridge from the Bernebeu. With the club likely to sell the injury-prone Michael Essien in the summer, they will be on the lookout for a defensive midfielder like Khedira to offer an alternative to the likes of John Obi Mikel and Ramires. He won't come cheap, but would be a good option for the team even at around £25million.

Roma's Daniele De Rossi has also been linked as the club's solution for this position, but with Mourinho preferring Khedira, it seems like the most likely move. His Real team-mate Xabi Alonso has also been linked with following Mourinho to West London, but the former Liverpool playmaker has committed his future to the Spanish giants.





3. Marouane Fellaini (Everton)

The Belgian midfielder has been in tremendous form for Everton this season, helping the club push for a top four spot with some towering displays and eleven league goals from the middle of the park. At 25 years of age is now approaching his peak and may be just the kind of physical and aggressive player that Mourinho likes.

Everton are determined to keep hold of him, and will fight off interest from David Moyes, who has just been announced as leaving the club for Manchester United and is being linked with a raid on Goodison Park for players such as Fellaini and Leighton Baines. However, Fellaini would arguably suit Chelsea's style of play better than United's, and could almost replicate the job Didier Drogba used to do for the club, albeit from a deeper position. His physical presence, hold-up play and aerial threat could be a useful alternative in a side currently consisting mostly of small and skillful players.





2. Edinson Cavani (Napoli)

The Uruguayan is one of the most sought-after players in Europe at the moment following a fine few years with Napoli. Manchester City are Chelsea's main competition for the prolific striker, but their current uncertainty over hiring a new manager could slow the process down and give Chelsea the advantage. Robert Lewandowski and Radamel Falcao had also been targets for the Blues, but both now look unavailable, with Lewandowski choosing a move to Borussia Dortmund's rivals Bayern Munich, and Falcao switching Atletico Madrid for a big-money move to French outfit Monaco.

Cavani is now the club's main target to replace £50million flop Fernando Torres, who will surely leave the club in the summer after failing to rediscover his best form at Stamford Bridge. Cavani would cost close to the same as Roman Abramovich paid for Torres, but is coming at the peak of his game and seems far less likely to disappoint. The lethal finisher should have a good time finding the back of the net in the Premier League, feeding off the great service from creative players Juan Mata, Eden Hazard and Oscar behind him.





1. Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)

In what would be a sensational move, the biggest rumours at the moment now point to Chelsea being the next destination of unwanted Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney. If the Blues miss out on their main target Edinson Cavani, they could turn to the England striker to be their long-term Didier Drogba replacement. Bayern had been linked with the 27-year-old, but then denied the rumours, and there aren't many other clubs that could afford his high wages.

Although United would rather not sell to another English club, they are certainly not planning on keeping Rooney after some poor displays this season and his submitted transfer request. This would be something of a shock, but it who better to get one of the most talked about names in football back to his best than Jose Mourinho? Due to his problems at United, he could come surprisingly cheap as well, with £25million being a great price for a player of such potential.


]]> http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/16/chelsea-set-for-mammoth-100m-summer-spending-spree-five-main-targets/feed/ 0 Mr ComfortThu, 16 May 13 20:15:37 +0000Five big-name players that could join Chelsea in Jose Mourinho's £100million summer spending spree. http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/16/top-five-possible-next-destinations-for-sacked-man-city-boss-roberto-mancini/ http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/16/top-five-possible-next-destinations-for-sacked-man-city-boss-roberto-mancini/#comments Thu, 16 May 2013 15:00:19 +0000 Mark Brus http://www.caughtoffside.com/?p=145353 Where next for sacked City boss?

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5. Napoli

Napoli are being linked with the recently-sacked Roberto Mancini, as they are likely to lose their current manager Walter Mazzarri to Inter Milan this summer. Mancini is said to welcome a return to Italy, but it might be a bit culture shock moving to a club without the financial power of City that is sure to sell star player Edinson Cavani this summer.

4. Inter Milan

Inter are said to be considering the future of current manager Andrea Stramaccioni after a poor season in Serie A. Currently 9th in the table, they are said to be lining up a move for Napoli manager Walter Mazzarri, who has done well to guide his team to 2nd in the table. However, with the promise of Champions League football next season, there's no guarantee Mazzarri would necessarily accept a switch to the struggling San Siro side, so they could turn to Mancini, who enjoyed great success in his time at Inter between 2004 and 2008.

3. Borussia Dortmund

With Jurgen Klopp impressing so many with his work at Borussia Dortmund over the last few years, the German coach could be a target for a number of top clubs this summer - as have been many of his players. With a summer of change ahead at Dortmund, perhaps Mancini could be a candidate to keep Dortmund competitive in the Bundesliga.

2. Monaco

Perhaps the favourites to attain his services at the moment are big-spending Monaco. Claudio Ranieri has guided the team to promotion from Ligue 2, but may not be seen as the man to take the club to the next level in the French top flight next term. Mancini would also bring the bonus of having worked with Monaco player targets Carlos Tevez and Edin Dzeko.

1. PSG

There is likely to be a managerial vacancy at PSG this summer, with Carlo Ancelotti being approached by Real Madrid as a replacement for Chelsea-bound Jose Mourinho. Mancini would likely fancy the chance to inherit a strong team with a great deal of financial power, as he did at City. However, he will be expected to build quickly on the success brought by Ancelotti, who delivered the Ligue 1 title this season. A repeat of his failure to spend money well and deliver trophies at City would certainly not be welcomed in Paris.


]]> Where next for sacked City boss?

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5. Napoli

Napoli are being linked with the recently-sacked Roberto Mancini, as they are likely to lose their current manager Walter Mazzarri to Inter Milan this summer. Mancini is said to welcome a return to Italy, but it might be a bit culture shock moving to a club without the financial power of City that is sure to sell star player Edinson Cavani this summer.

4. Inter Milan

Inter are said to be considering the future of current manager Andrea Stramaccioni after a poor season in Serie A. Currently 9th in the table, they are said to be lining up a move for Napoli manager Walter Mazzarri, who has done well to guide his team to 2nd in the table. However, with the promise of Champions League football next season, there's no guarantee Mazzarri would necessarily accept a switch to the struggling San Siro side, so they could turn to Mancini, who enjoyed great success in his time at Inter between 2004 and 2008.

3. Borussia Dortmund

With Jurgen Klopp impressing so many with his work at Borussia Dortmund over the last few years, the German coach could be a target for a number of top clubs this summer - as have been many of his players. With a summer of change ahead at Dortmund, perhaps Mancini could be a candidate to keep Dortmund competitive in the Bundesliga.

2. Monaco

Perhaps the favourites to attain his services at the moment are big-spending Monaco. Claudio Ranieri has guided the team to promotion from Ligue 2, but may not be seen as the man to take the club to the next level in the French top flight next term. Mancini would also bring the bonus of having worked with Monaco player targets Carlos Tevez and Edin Dzeko.

1. PSG

There is likely to be a managerial vacancy at PSG this summer, with Carlo Ancelotti being approached by Real Madrid as a replacement for Chelsea-bound Jose Mourinho. Mancini would likely fancy the chance to inherit a strong team with a great deal of financial power, as he did at City. However, he will be expected to build quickly on the success brought by Ancelotti, who delivered the Ligue 1 title this season. A repeat of his failure to spend money well and deliver trophies at City would certainly not be welcomed in Paris.


]]> http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/16/top-five-possible-next-destinations-for-sacked-man-city-boss-roberto-mancini/feed/ 0 Mark BrusThu, 16 May 13 16:00:19 +0000Where next for sacked City boss? http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/15/20-transfers-we-think-are-likely-to-happen-this-summer/ http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/15/20-transfers-we-think-are-likely-to-happen-this-summer/#comments Wed, 15 May 2013 22:38:38 +0000 Mark Brus http://www.caughtoffside.com/?p=145328 20 transfer rumours that look likely to happen in the summer transfer window.



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Andre Schurrle from Bayer Leverkusen to Chelsea.

Reports strongly suggest that this transfer will happen soon enough. The talented Bayer Leverkusen winger has lit up the Bundesliga with his displays this season and is one of many highly rated young players coming through in German football at the moment. The 22-year-old has 13 goals and 8 assists this season and for £20million will give Chelsea more options both out wide and upfront, where they are somewhat lacking in goals from unreliable and off-form pair Fernando Torres and Demba Ba. There's always potential for late snags to derail a deal, but this looks as close as possible to being a certainty. 9/10.





Carlos Tevez from Manchester City to Monaco.

It's been a relatively quiet year in the eventful career of Carlos Tevez, and it would not be surprising to see something come of the rumours that he is being lined up by big-spending Monaco, who will look to strengthen their team for a challenge in Ligue 1 next season. The Argentinian striker was close to leaving City last season after a falling out with Roberto Mancini, and remains keen on a move away from England, despite getting back to close to his best form at the Etihad Stadium this season. There aren't many clubs who could afford his enormous wages, so a move to billionaire-owned Monaco makes sense. 8/10.





David Villa from Barcelona to Tottenham.

One of the most composed finishers of the last ten years, David Villa would be an excellent signing for Tottenham if they can do it. The Barcelona forward has still managed 15 goals at the Nou Camp this season despite limited playing time, showing he hasn't lost the goal scoring touch. With Spurs' shortage of goals from Emmanuel Adebayor and Jermain Defoe, a new striker is a must for Andre Villas-Boas in the upcoming transfer window. At 31 years of age and with recent injury problems, Barca are willing to let the former Valencia striker leave, but if he goes on the cheap he could be a smart move for Spurs. He has also been linked with Arsenal and they would love to beat their North London rivals to the Spaniard. 8/10.





Fernandinho from Shakhtar Donetsk to Manchester City.

Manchester City are looking for new midfielders to improve on their current options of Gareth Barry and Javi Garcia, and have identified Shakhtar's Fernandinho as a prime target after some impressive displays for the Ukranian side this season. The 28-year-old is also keen on a move to the Premier League as he looks to catch the eye of Brazilian national team manager Luiz Felipe Scolari in time for next summer's World Cup. 8/10.





Cristian Tello from Barcelona to Liverpool.

Liverpool are keen to sign this talented young forward from Barcelona to take some of the weight of Luis Suarez's shoulders next season. With Barcelona also keen on Reds goalkeeper Pepe Reina, rumour has it that a swap deal could take place between the two sides. Either that, or Liverpool and a few other clubs may look into activating his relatively cheap £8.5million minimum release fee clause. The offer of first-team football could lure the Spaniard away from the Nou Camp. 7/10.





Nani from Manchester United to Juventus.

The Portuguese winger has been an inconsistent performer this season for United, simply failing to do his job in providing enough goals and assists from the flanks. However, Juventus are said to be willing to offer him a lifeline in Serie A, as they look so strengthen their title-winning squad for a better challenge in the Champions League next year. Sir Alex Ferguson recently denied rumours that Nani would be sold, but he won't be in charge next season and new United boss David Moyes may have other plans. An exit seems likely, though it remains yet to be seen if it will be Juventus he ends up at. 6/10.





Claudio Marchisio from Juventus to Manchester United.

In the other direction, Manchester United have been linked with a couple of Juventus midfielders. Arturo Vidal probably won't be moving, after saying he is happy at the club. However, Claudio Marchisio has also been lined up by United as possible replacement for the retiring Paul Scholes. The Italian is an experienced and combative box-to-box player who would give the Red Devils some much-needed bite in the middle of the park alongside Michael Carrick. Marchisio is highly valued by Juventus though, and won't come cheap, which could prove a stumbling block in a potential deal. 5/10.





Edin Dzeko from Manchester City to Napoli.

Napoli appear to be leading the chase for out-of-favour Manchester City striker Edin Dzeko. The Bosnian striker is surely on his way out of the Etihad Stadium this summer after an inconsistent couple of years with the club. Despite the occasional scoring streak, the former Wolsburg man has not looked worth the £28million City paid for him, and they will look to make a number of changes to their strike force after a disappointing season in which they failed to win a trophy. City's interest in landing Napoli's Edinson Cavani could push the deal through. 7/10.





Edinson Cavani from Napoli to Manchester City.

If the deal above goes through, then Manchester City will surely be favourites to land their long-term target Edinson Cavani. The Uruguayan striker has been in tremendous form for Napoli over the last couple of seasons and City will hope to be able to offer the most money to both him and his club to fight off other suitors such as Chelsea and Real Madrid. This world class talent would give City a big edge in regaining the Premier League title next season. 7/10.





Gonzalo Higuain from Real Madrid to Arsenal.

Arsenal have apparently been told by Real Madrid that an offer of £22million would get them Gonzalo Higuain. The talented Argentine has been placed on the transfer list at the Bernebeu as the Spanish giants hope to raise some money for some summer spending of their own. Arsenal are in need of a striker to fill the void left by Robin van Persie, which Olivier Giroud and Lukas Podolski have not quite managed to fill so far. However, with Higuain also wanted by Juventus and Tottenham, will Arsenal really fancy their chances of winning a bidding war for the 25-year-old? 5/10.





Leighton Baines from Everton to Manchester United.

The England left-back has been one of Everton's stand-out performers this season, and departing manager David Moyes is apparently understandably keen to take the 28-year-old with him to Manchester United. With current United left-back Patrice Evra looking past his best, this move would make a great deal of sense, and Baines will be keen to play Champions League football at this point in his career, feeling he has probably given all he can to Everton. 8/10.





Robert Lewandowski from Borussia Dortmund to Bayern Munich.

Borussia Dortmund are likely to be dealt the blow of losing their star striker to rivals Bayern Munich this summer. The 24-year-old has been in lethal form for the Bundesliga side over the last couple of seasons, attracting interest from Manchester United and Chelsea, but the Polish striker himself seems to favour a move to the current Bundesliga champions, and could play his final game for Dortmund against his future employers in this season's Champions League final. Mario Goetze has already been confirmed as making the same move, and all rumours suggest Lewandowski will follow his team-mate. 9/10.





Christian Benteke from Aston Villa to Borussia Dortmund.

Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke has enjoyed a great first season in English football, scoring 19 goals and providing 4 assists in the league to help his side fight relegation from the Premier League. The talented youngster's form has not gone unnoticed, attracting interest from the likes of Arsenal and Tottenham, and also Dortmund, who will need to replace the goals of Bayern-bound Robert Lewandowski. Villa will struggle to hold on to such a talent, but would prefer not to lose him to a rival English club, which may give the Bundesliga giants an edge in landing their target. 7/10.





Zlatan Irahimovic from PSG to Juventus.

The enigmatic Swedish striker has just won Ligue 1 with PSG, adding yet another league title in another country to his fine collection. However, the team's title celebrations were marred by Ibrahimovic getting into a heated argument with club director Leonardo, fueling speculation that he could return to old club Juventus this summer. The 31-year-old has spent most his career in Serie A and would welcome a return to a Juventus team that look like going places in the next couple of years. However, the Italian giants have not been known to splash out huge amounts of money in recent years, which could make this deal tricky, given Ibrahimovic's high wages in Paris. 6/10.





Gareth Bale from Tottenham to Real Madrid.

One of the biggest stories of the last few months is that in-demand Spurs star Gareth Bale will make a big-money move to Real Madrid this summer. The Spanish giants are known for their 'galactico' signings and are prepared to offer as much as £65million for the talented Welsh winger. Spurs are keen to hold on to him, but may understandably feel they cannot turn down such a big offer. Real tend to get their way in the transfer market, and it will be harder for Bale to say no if there is no offer of Champions League football at White Hart Lane next season. 8/10.





Neymar from Santos to Barcelona.

One of the most sought-after young talents in the world looks to have agreed a deal to join Barcelona this summer. Manchester City, Chelsea and Real Madrid were all keen on him, but despite rumours of a late effort from Real, he is keen to link up with the likes of Lionel Messi and Andres Iniesta at the Nou Camp next season. The deal is expected to be confirmed in the coming weeks. 9/10.





Isco from Malaga to Manchester City.

Isco has earned rave reviews for his performances in La Liga with Malaga this season, getting himself onto the radar of many top clubs. Chelsea were known to be keen on him, but with Malaga manager Manuel Pellegrini looking the likely candidate to replace Roberto Mancini as manager at Manchester City next season, it seems he will bring his star player with him to the Etihad Stadium. The 21-year-old would prove an excellent addition to the squad and City will be glad to bring in a big name such as him to help them in their title quest next season. 8/10.





Javier Hernandez from Manchester United to Atletico Madrid.

With Atletico Madrid certain to lose star striker Radamel Falcao this summer, they have reportedly identified Manchester United's Javier Hernandez as a decent replacement. Although the Mexican has struggled for games at United, his finishing ability is obvious and he will feel he is deserving of more first team opportunities. United could let him leave for £12million, and it looks a good piece of business by the La Liga outfit. 8/10.





Radamel Falcao from Atletico Madrid to Monaco.

In the last couple of days, Monaco have emerged as the surprise favourites to sign Atletico Madrid's in-demand striker Radamel Falcao. The Colombian's fine form this season has attracted interest from Manchester City, Manchester United, Chelsea and Real Madrid, but he now looks likely to be tempted by the big money on offer at the newly-promoted French club. It is a blow for the others, but a massive boost for Monaco as they look to wrestle for the Ligue 1 title with fellow big-spenders PSG. 8/10.





Wayne Rooney from Manchester United to Chelsea.

In what would be a sensational move, all signs now point to unwanted Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney joining rivals Chelsea. Chelsea currently look like missing out on their other main targets, with Cavani going to City, Falcao going to Monaco and Lewandowski going to Bayern, meaning they could turn to the England striker to be their long-term Didier Drogba replacement. Bayern had been linked with the 27-year-old, but then denied the rumours, and there aren't many other clubs that could afford his high wages. Although United would rather not sell to another English club, they are certainly not planning on keeping Rooney after some poor displays this season and his submitted transfer request. This would be something of a shock, but it seems ever more likely that it will happen. 7/10.

]]> 20 transfer rumours that look likely to happen in the summer transfer window.



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Andre Schurrle from Bayer Leverkusen to Chelsea.

Reports strongly suggest that this transfer will happen soon enough. The talented Bayer Leverkusen winger has lit up the Bundesliga with his displays this season and is one of many highly rated young players coming through in German football at the moment. The 22-year-old has 13 goals and 8 assists this season and for £20million will give Chelsea more options both out wide and upfront, where they are somewhat lacking in goals from unreliable and off-form pair Fernando Torres and Demba Ba. There's always potential for late snags to derail a deal, but this looks as close as possible to being a certainty. 9/10.





Carlos Tevez from Manchester City to Monaco.

It's been a relatively quiet year in the eventful career of Carlos Tevez, and it would not be surprising to see something come of the rumours that he is being lined up by big-spending Monaco, who will look to strengthen their team for a challenge in Ligue 1 next season. The Argentinian striker was close to leaving City last season after a falling out with Roberto Mancini, and remains keen on a move away from England, despite getting back to close to his best form at the Etihad Stadium this season. There aren't many clubs who could afford his enormous wages, so a move to billionaire-owned Monaco makes sense. 8/10.





David Villa from Barcelona to Tottenham.

One of the most composed finishers of the last ten years, David Villa would be an excellent signing for Tottenham if they can do it. The Barcelona forward has still managed 15 goals at the Nou Camp this season despite limited playing time, showing he hasn't lost the goal scoring touch. With Spurs' shortage of goals from Emmanuel Adebayor and Jermain Defoe, a new striker is a must for Andre Villas-Boas in the upcoming transfer window. At 31 years of age and with recent injury problems, Barca are willing to let the former Valencia striker leave, but if he goes on the cheap he could be a smart move for Spurs. He has also been linked with Arsenal and they would love to beat their North London rivals to the Spaniard. 8/10.





Fernandinho from Shakhtar Donetsk to Manchester City.

Manchester City are looking for new midfielders to improve on their current options of Gareth Barry and Javi Garcia, and have identified Shakhtar's Fernandinho as a prime target after some impressive displays for the Ukranian side this season. The 28-year-old is also keen on a move to the Premier League as he looks to catch the eye of Brazilian national team manager Luiz Felipe Scolari in time for next summer's World Cup. 8/10.





Cristian Tello from Barcelona to Liverpool.

Liverpool are keen to sign this talented young forward from Barcelona to take some of the weight of Luis Suarez's shoulders next season. With Barcelona also keen on Reds goalkeeper Pepe Reina, rumour has it that a swap deal could take place between the two sides. Either that, or Liverpool and a few other clubs may look into activating his relatively cheap £8.5million minimum release fee clause. The offer of first-team football could lure the Spaniard away from the Nou Camp. 7/10.





Nani from Manchester United to Juventus.

The Portuguese winger has been an inconsistent performer this season for United, simply failing to do his job in providing enough goals and assists from the flanks. However, Juventus are said to be willing to offer him a lifeline in Serie A, as they look so strengthen their title-winning squad for a better challenge in the Champions League next year. Sir Alex Ferguson recently denied rumours that Nani would be sold, but he won't be in charge next season and new United boss David Moyes may have other plans. An exit seems likely, though it remains yet to be seen if it will be Juventus he ends up at. 6/10.





Claudio Marchisio from Juventus to Manchester United.

In the other direction, Manchester United have been linked with a couple of Juventus midfielders. Arturo Vidal probably won't be moving, after saying he is happy at the club. However, Claudio Marchisio has also been lined up by United as possible replacement for the retiring Paul Scholes. The Italian is an experienced and combative box-to-box player who would give the Red Devils some much-needed bite in the middle of the park alongside Michael Carrick. Marchisio is highly valued by Juventus though, and won't come cheap, which could prove a stumbling block in a potential deal. 5/10.





Edin Dzeko from Manchester City to Napoli.

Napoli appear to be leading the chase for out-of-favour Manchester City striker Edin Dzeko. The Bosnian striker is surely on his way out of the Etihad Stadium this summer after an inconsistent couple of years with the club. Despite the occasional scoring streak, the former Wolsburg man has not looked worth the £28million City paid for him, and they will look to make a number of changes to their strike force after a disappointing season in which they failed to win a trophy. City's interest in landing Napoli's Edinson Cavani could push the deal through. 7/10.





Edinson Cavani from Napoli to Manchester City.

If the deal above goes through, then Manchester City will surely be favourites to land their long-term target Edinson Cavani. The Uruguayan striker has been in tremendous form for Napoli over the last couple of seasons and City will hope to be able to offer the most money to both him and his club to fight off other suitors such as Chelsea and Real Madrid. This world class talent would give City a big edge in regaining the Premier League title next season. 7/10.





Gonzalo Higuain from Real Madrid to Arsenal.

Arsenal have apparently been told by Real Madrid that an offer of £22million would get them Gonzalo Higuain. The talented Argentine has been placed on the transfer list at the Bernebeu as the Spanish giants hope to raise some money for some summer spending of their own. Arsenal are in need of a striker to fill the void left by Robin van Persie, which Olivier Giroud and Lukas Podolski have not quite managed to fill so far. However, with Higuain also wanted by Juventus and Tottenham, will Arsenal really fancy their chances of winning a bidding war for the 25-year-old? 5/10.





Leighton Baines from Everton to Manchester United.

The England left-back has been one of Everton's stand-out performers this season, and departing manager David Moyes is apparently understandably keen to take the 28-year-old with him to Manchester United. With current United left-back Patrice Evra looking past his best, this move would make a great deal of sense, and Baines will be keen to play Champions League football at this point in his career, feeling he has probably given all he can to Everton. 8/10.





Robert Lewandowski from Borussia Dortmund to Bayern Munich.

Borussia Dortmund are likely to be dealt the blow of losing their star striker to rivals Bayern Munich this summer. The 24-year-old has been in lethal form for the Bundesliga side over the last couple of seasons, attracting interest from Manchester United and Chelsea, but the Polish striker himself seems to favour a move to the current Bundesliga champions, and could play his final game for Dortmund against his future employers in this season's Champions League final. Mario Goetze has already been confirmed as making the same move, and all rumours suggest Lewandowski will follow his team-mate. 9/10.





Christian Benteke from Aston Villa to Borussia Dortmund.

Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke has enjoyed a great first season in English football, scoring 19 goals and providing 4 assists in the league to help his side fight relegation from the Premier League. The talented youngster's form has not gone unnoticed, attracting interest from the likes of Arsenal and Tottenham, and also Dortmund, who will need to replace the goals of Bayern-bound Robert Lewandowski. Villa will struggle to hold on to such a talent, but would prefer not to lose him to a rival English club, which may give the Bundesliga giants an edge in landing their target. 7/10.





Zlatan Irahimovic from PSG to Juventus.

The enigmatic Swedish striker has just won Ligue 1 with PSG, adding yet another league title in another country to his fine collection. However, the team's title celebrations were marred by Ibrahimovic getting into a heated argument with club director Leonardo, fueling speculation that he could return to old club Juventus this summer. The 31-year-old has spent most his career in Serie A and would welcome a return to a Juventus team that look like going places in the next couple of years. However, the Italian giants have not been known to splash out huge amounts of money in recent years, which could make this deal tricky, given Ibrahimovic's high wages in Paris. 6/10.





Gareth Bale from Tottenham to Real Madrid.

One of the biggest stories of the last few months is that in-demand Spurs star Gareth Bale will make a big-money move to Real Madrid this summer. The Spanish giants are known for their 'galactico' signings and are prepared to offer as much as £65million for the talented Welsh winger. Spurs are keen to hold on to him, but may understandably feel they cannot turn down such a big offer. Real tend to get their way in the transfer market, and it will be harder for Bale to say no if there is no offer of Champions League football at White Hart Lane next season. 8/10.





Neymar from Santos to Barcelona.

One of the most sought-after young talents in the world looks to have agreed a deal to join Barcelona this summer. Manchester City, Chelsea and Real Madrid were all keen on him, but despite rumours of a late effort from Real, he is keen to link up with the likes of Lionel Messi and Andres Iniesta at the Nou Camp next season. The deal is expected to be confirmed in the coming weeks. 9/10.





Isco from Malaga to Manchester City.

Isco has earned rave reviews for his performances in La Liga with Malaga this season, getting himself onto the radar of many top clubs. Chelsea were known to be keen on him, but with Malaga manager Manuel Pellegrini looking the likely candidate to replace Roberto Mancini as manager at Manchester City next season, it seems he will bring his star player with him to the Etihad Stadium. The 21-year-old would prove an excellent addition to the squad and City will be glad to bring in a big name such as him to help them in their title quest next season. 8/10.





Javier Hernandez from Manchester United to Atletico Madrid.

With Atletico Madrid certain to lose star striker Radamel Falcao this summer, they have reportedly identified Manchester United's Javier Hernandez as a decent replacement. Although the Mexican has struggled for games at United, his finishing ability is obvious and he will feel he is deserving of more first team opportunities. United could let him leave for £12million, and it looks a good piece of business by the La Liga outfit. 8/10.





Radamel Falcao from Atletico Madrid to Monaco.

In the last couple of days, Monaco have emerged as the surprise favourites to sign Atletico Madrid's in-demand striker Radamel Falcao. The Colombian's fine form this season has attracted interest from Manchester City, Manchester United, Chelsea and Real Madrid, but he now looks likely to be tempted by the big money on offer at the newly-promoted French club. It is a blow for the others, but a massive boost for Monaco as they look to wrestle for the Ligue 1 title with fellow big-spenders PSG. 8/10.





Wayne Rooney from Manchester United to Chelsea.

In what would be a sensational move, all signs now point to unwanted Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney joining rivals Chelsea. Chelsea currently look like missing out on their other main targets, with Cavani going to City, Falcao going to Monaco and Lewandowski going to Bayern, meaning they could turn to the England striker to be their long-term Didier Drogba replacement. Bayern had been linked with the 27-year-old, but then denied the rumours, and there aren't many other clubs that could afford his high wages. Although United would rather not sell to another English club, they are certainly not planning on keeping Rooney after some poor displays this season and his submitted transfer request. This would be something of a shock, but it seems ever more likely that it will happen. 7/10.

]]> http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/15/20-transfers-we-think-are-likely-to-happen-this-summer/feed/ 0 Mark BrusWed, 15 May 13 23:38:38 +000020 transfer rumours that look likely to happen in the summer transfer window. http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/15/top-ten-worst-roberto-mancini-manchester-city-signings/ http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/15/top-ten-worst-roberto-mancini-manchester-city-signings/#comments Wed, 15 May 2013 12:54:54 +0000 Mark Brus http://www.caughtoffside.com/?p=145269 Ten signings that really did the Etihad Stadium boss no favours.



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10. Jerome Boateng

The £10million signing from Hamburg arrived as a great prospect, but failed to adapt to English football. The 24-year-old has since gone on to establish himself as a regular for both Bayern Munich and Germany, despite only making 16 appearances in a disappointing spell for City. A talented player no doubt, but not a signing that worked out for Roberto Mancini.



9. Owen Hargreaves

This controversial move did not turn out to be worth it for Roberto Mancini. Brought to City on a free transfer from rivals Manchester United, it was hoped that the former England midfielder could revive his career after an injury-plagued few years at Old Trafford. However, he made just one league appearance for the club and was released again immediately after. The 32-year-old has not since managed to find a new club, which suggests this project by Mancini was a big waste of everyone's time.



8. Stefan Savic

The young defender was signed from Partizan Belgrade for just £6million, but ended up looking a total flop at Manchester City. He spent just one season at the club in their title-winning year, but made a number of poor individual errors that saw him quickly shipped out of the club at the end of the season. One positive to come from this move was that City then included him as part of a swap deal to bring the far more talented Matija Nastasic to the club from Fiorentina.



7. Edin Dzeko

Despite the occasional good run of form in front of goal, the former Wolsburg striker has definitely not looked worth the £27million that Mancini paid for him in 2011. The highlight of the Bosnian's career at City will no doubt be his four-goal haul against Tottenham at White Hart Lane, but more than anything he will be remembered for looking slow, sluggish and missing a number of easy sitters in front of goal.



6. Maicon

The Brazilian defender was a great player for a few years at Mancini's old club Inter Milan, which presumably moved the Italian coach to sign him for City, but it came a few years too late as the 31-year-old is clearly past his best form. He has been unable to force his way past Pablo Zabaleta in City's staring lineup, and has looked a strange and unnecessary signing.



5. Scott Sinclair

Roberto Mancini admits himself that he got this one wrong. The Italian signed the winger from Swansea on the back of a good season at the Liberty Stadium, but has hardly given him a chance to impress at all. The 24-year-old has made just 11 league appearances, mostly short cameos from the bench, and no one really knows what Mancini had in mind with this transfer at all.



4. Jack Rodwell

The 22-year-old seemed a strange signing from Everton. The young midfielder undoubtedly has talent, but was a poor choice by Roberto Mancini considering his terrible injury record. These fitness problems have followed him from Goodison Park to the Etihad Stadium and he has made just 10 appearances for the club this season, which is not a great return when you spend £15million on a player.



3. Aleksandar Kolarov

The £16million signing from Lazio has to go down as a poor piece of business by Mancini. Despite his knack for free-kicks and long range shots with his powerful left foot, the Serbian has not looked up to coping with the pace of the English game, and is not really good enough defensively. He has found himself mostly behind Gael Clichy in the pecking order this season, and will probably move back to Serie A this summer.



2. Samir Nasri

Definitely a mistake that has gone on to haunt Mancini - £25million for Samir Nasri from Arsenal has not been worth it at all, with the French winger showing a tendency to hide away in big games and generally be unreliable in providing the numbers of goals and assists you would expect from an attacking midfielder. Arsenal fans are laughing, and on this occasion they certainly were the winners despite what seemed like another high-profile departure from the club.



1. Mario Balotelli

The controversial Italian may have scored 13 goals in their title-winning campaign last season, including two important strikes in the memorable 6-1 thrashing of rivals Manchester United at Old Trafford, but the £20million signing from Inter Milan will be remembered more for his disciplinary problems on and off the pitch, which often infuriated his team-mates and manager. Mancini finally gave up on him this January, selling him to AC Milan, but it definitely took him too long to realise Balotelli was a lost cause.


]]> Ten signings that really did the Etihad Stadium boss no favours.



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10. Jerome Boateng

The £10million signing from Hamburg arrived as a great prospect, but failed to adapt to English football. The 24-year-old has since gone on to establish himself as a regular for both Bayern Munich and Germany, despite only making 16 appearances in a disappointing spell for City. A talented player no doubt, but not a signing that worked out for Roberto Mancini.



9. Owen Hargreaves

This controversial move did not turn out to be worth it for Roberto Mancini. Brought to City on a free transfer from rivals Manchester United, it was hoped that the former England midfielder could revive his career after an injury-plagued few years at Old Trafford. However, he made just one league appearance for the club and was released again immediately after. The 32-year-old has not since managed to find a new club, which suggests this project by Mancini was a big waste of everyone's time.



8. Stefan Savic

The young defender was signed from Partizan Belgrade for just £6million, but ended up looking a total flop at Manchester City. He spent just one season at the club in their title-winning year, but made a number of poor individual errors that saw him quickly shipped out of the club at the end of the season. One positive to come from this move was that City then included him as part of a swap deal to bring the far more talented Matija Nastasic to the club from Fiorentina.



7. Edin Dzeko

Despite the occasional good run of form in front of goal, the former Wolsburg striker has definitely not looked worth the £27million that Mancini paid for him in 2011. The highlight of the Bosnian's career at City will no doubt be his four-goal haul against Tottenham at White Hart Lane, but more than anything he will be remembered for looking slow, sluggish and missing a number of easy sitters in front of goal.



6. Maicon

The Brazilian defender was a great player for a few years at Mancini's old club Inter Milan, which presumably moved the Italian coach to sign him for City, but it came a few years too late as the 31-year-old is clearly past his best form. He has been unable to force his way past Pablo Zabaleta in City's staring lineup, and has looked a strange and unnecessary signing.



5. Scott Sinclair

Roberto Mancini admits himself that he got this one wrong. The Italian signed the winger from Swansea on the back of a good season at the Liberty Stadium, but has hardly given him a chance to impress at all. The 24-year-old has made just 11 league appearances, mostly short cameos from the bench, and no one really knows what Mancini had in mind with this transfer at all.



4. Jack Rodwell

The 22-year-old seemed a strange signing from Everton. The young midfielder undoubtedly has talent, but was a poor choice by Roberto Mancini considering his terrible injury record. These fitness problems have followed him from Goodison Park to the Etihad Stadium and he has made just 10 appearances for the club this season, which is not a great return when you spend £15million on a player.



3. Aleksandar Kolarov

The £16million signing from Lazio has to go down as a poor piece of business by Mancini. Despite his knack for free-kicks and long range shots with his powerful left foot, the Serbian has not looked up to coping with the pace of the English game, and is not really good enough defensively. He has found himself mostly behind Gael Clichy in the pecking order this season, and will probably move back to Serie A this summer.



2. Samir Nasri

Definitely a mistake that has gone on to haunt Mancini - £25million for Samir Nasri from Arsenal has not been worth it at all, with the French winger showing a tendency to hide away in big games and generally be unreliable in providing the numbers of goals and assists you would expect from an attacking midfielder. Arsenal fans are laughing, and on this occasion they certainly were the winners despite what seemed like another high-profile departure from the club.



1. Mario Balotelli

The controversial Italian may have scored 13 goals in their title-winning campaign last season, including two important strikes in the memorable 6-1 thrashing of rivals Manchester United at Old Trafford, but the £20million signing from Inter Milan will be remembered more for his disciplinary problems on and off the pitch, which often infuriated his team-mates and manager. Mancini finally gave up on him this January, selling him to AC Milan, but it definitely took him too long to realise Balotelli was a lost cause.


]]> http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/15/top-ten-worst-roberto-mancini-manchester-city-signings/feed/ 0 Mark BrusWed, 15 May 13 13:54:54 +0000Ten signings that really did the Etihad Stadium boss no favours. http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/13/top-five-keepers-arsenal-should-target-this-summer/ http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/13/top-five-keepers-arsenal-should-target-this-summer/#comments Mon, 13 May 2013 20:50:17 +0000 Mark Brus http://www.caughtoffside.com/?p=145194 Five goalkeepers Arsene Wenger should consider signing this summer to replace Wojciech Szczesny.



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5. Asmir Begovic (Stoke City)

The Bosnian shot-stopper is a target for a number of top clubs this summer, and Stoke seem to be preparing for his exit with the signing of Birmingham City goalkeeper Jack Butland. The 25-year-old has been one of the Premier League's best 'keepers this season and it would be a big boost for Arsenal to beat the likes of Chelsea and Manchester United to his signature.



4. Victor Valdes (Barcelona)

The Barcelona goalkeeper has declared that he wants to leave the club at the end of the season for a new challenge, and has expressed a liking for English football. After winning everything there is to win in his time at the Nou Camp, his experience could be of great use to Arsene Wenger's young and inexperienced Arsenal side, which has won nothing for eight years. The 31-year-old is also a target for Liverpool to aid their goalkeeping problems.



3. Michel Vorm (Swansea City)

The Dutchman has been a great signing for Swansea, attracting interest from Arsenal, Liverpool and Barcelona. The 29-year-old has exceptional reflexes and shot-stopping abilities, and would certainly cut out the errors at the back that have cost the Gunners on so many occasions over the last few years.



2. Tim Krul (Newcastle)

After a surprisingly poor season at St James' Park, the highly-rated Tim Krul has been targeted by the likes of AC Milan and Roma. At 25 years of age, Arsenal should act fast to sign this 'keeper who could be a long term solution between the sticks at the Emirates Stadium.



1. Simon Mignolet (Sunderland)

Arguably the stand-out goalkeeper in the Premier League this season, the 25-year-old Belgian should be top of Arsene Wenger's shopping list this summer. Sunderland are unlikely to be able to hold on to Mignolet after a poor season fighting relegation, with him to thank for some outstanding saves helping them stay in many games this year. The Black Cats could still go down, and this talented 'keeper would surely be one of the first big names to go.

]]> Five goalkeepers Arsene Wenger should consider signing this summer to replace Wojciech Szczesny.



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5. Asmir Begovic (Stoke City)

The Bosnian shot-stopper is a target for a number of top clubs this summer, and Stoke seem to be preparing for his exit with the signing of Birmingham City goalkeeper Jack Butland. The 25-year-old has been one of the Premier League's best 'keepers this season and it would be a big boost for Arsenal to beat the likes of Chelsea and Manchester United to his signature.



4. Victor Valdes (Barcelona)

The Barcelona goalkeeper has declared that he wants to leave the club at the end of the season for a new challenge, and has expressed a liking for English football. After winning everything there is to win in his time at the Nou Camp, his experience could be of great use to Arsene Wenger's young and inexperienced Arsenal side, which has won nothing for eight years. The 31-year-old is also a target for Liverpool to aid their goalkeeping problems.



3. Michel Vorm (Swansea City)

The Dutchman has been a great signing for Swansea, attracting interest from Arsenal, Liverpool and Barcelona. The 29-year-old has exceptional reflexes and shot-stopping abilities, and would certainly cut out the errors at the back that have cost the Gunners on so many occasions over the last few years.



2. Tim Krul (Newcastle)

After a surprisingly poor season at St James' Park, the highly-rated Tim Krul has been targeted by the likes of AC Milan and Roma. At 25 years of age, Arsenal should act fast to sign this 'keeper who could be a long term solution between the sticks at the Emirates Stadium.



1. Simon Mignolet (Sunderland)

Arguably the stand-out goalkeeper in the Premier League this season, the 25-year-old Belgian should be top of Arsene Wenger's shopping list this summer. Sunderland are unlikely to be able to hold on to Mignolet after a poor season fighting relegation, with him to thank for some outstanding saves helping them stay in many games this year. The Black Cats could still go down, and this talented 'keeper would surely be one of the first big names to go.

]]> http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/05/13/top-five-keepers-arsenal-should-target-this-summer/feed/ 0 Mark BrusMon, 13 May 13 21:50:17 +0000Five goalkeepers Arsene Wenger should consider signing this summer to replace Wojciech Szczesny.