Ten South American stars that may be playing in Europe next season.
10. Angel Correa – San Lorenzo
The speedy, two-footed second striker has been compared with compatriots Carlos Tevez and Sergio Aguero, and furthermore he has been linked with a move to Manchester City this summer as Manuel Pellegrini looks to add some more firepower to his frontline.
9. Juan Sanchez Mino – Boca Juniors
There versatile wide man is capable of playing anywhere on the left as well as in a central attacking role. Classy and fleet footed is a tireless runner and is already a member if the Argentinian national side. Several clubs in Spain have already cast admiring glances.
8. Jonathan Rodriguez – Penarol
Quick, stocky, powerful striker has been a revaluation for the Uruguayan giants since breaking onto the scene in the debt against Nacional. The 20-year-old is rumoured to be being watched by Valencia and Lazio in Serie A.
7. Doria – Botafogo
The 19-year-old has already been capped by the Selecao, and the big defender has been on Chelsea’s radar since before the January transfer window. A hulking giant who is expected to become of the world’s best defender’s is perfectly suited for the English game.
6. Wendell – Gremio
The left-back is already on his way to Europe having penned a pre-contract agreement with Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen after replacing Alex Telles when he was sold to Galatasaray.
5. Giorgian De Arrascaeta – Defensor
The Uruguayan attacking midfielder was one of the most technically gifted players at last summer’s Under-20 World Cup. Though he is still in the process of breaking into the first team with Defensor he has been watched by club’s from Germany, Turkey and France.
4. Rodrigo De Paul – Racing
The elegant Argentine attacker can be used anywhere across the front three in attack and his tendency to cut inside to unleash powerful shots have been catching the eyes of both Arsenal and Liverpool this season.
3. Luan – Gremio
The beanpole support striker has made quite the impression in what is still his first season with the club, but he may not be there for much longer as significant interest from Portugal and Italy threatens to bring him to Europe.
2. Eder Alvarez Balanta – River Plate
The classy centre-back is already making a name for himself in the Colombian national team and had garnered significant interest from Barcelona before they were slapped with a transfer ban. Reports are now suggesting that Inter Milan may swoop in now instead.
1. Everton Ribeiro – Cruzeiro
Cruzeiro have been desperate to hang on to the classy playmaker and managed to rebuff all advances during the January transfer window. However, with Man United, Liverpool and Spurs all chasing him now surely his departure is only a matter of time.