8. Nicolas N’Koulou (Marseille)
Cameroon international Nicolas N’Koulou has emerged as one of the best defenders currently playing in Ligue 1, showing some excellent form this season to guide Marseille to a runners-up spot behind champions PSG. The 23-year-old is a strong, pacey and athletic defender, who can also play at right-back. He has all the qualities to succeed in England, and his versatility and youth will appeal to Mourinho as he looks to build a new team.
The player himself has admitted he is likely to leave Marseille for a bigger club this summer, and they may struggle to keep hold of him as he stalls on a new contract offer and continues to attract interest from the likes of Arsenal, who made enquiries about the player in January. Chelsea were also linked earlier in the year, though it is unknown if they would continue their interest with Mourinho at the helm.