The top transfer targets at the World Cup this summer.
As the World Cup approaches, clubs the world over will have their eyes peeled for bargains, hidden gems and big stars to spend their cash on during the transfer window, and we’ve compiled a list of the best three players from every country at this year’s tournament that could tempt teams to get the chequebook out.
England
Frank Lampard – Free Agent
The veteran midfielder has enjoyed a fine, if diminished role with the Blues this season, and upon the release of the Premier League’s free agent list Lampard has yet to be offered an extension at Stamford Bridge, and as it stands he is up for grabs. A strong showing could prompt a club either in Europe or the United States to move quickly to snap him up.
James Milner – Manchester City
Milner recently said that he is looking to leave the Premier League champions this summer as he is unhappy at playing a bit part role with the club. He will have no shortage of suitors when the transfer window re-opens, but his versatility and tireless running could provide him a few more options when July roles around.
Danny Welbeck – Manchester United
The 23-year-old enjoyed one of his most productive spells in front of goal last season, but rumour has it he is unhappy at Old Trafford, and could be looking to ship out. With Louis Van Gaal coming in he could be offered a fresh start, though the Dutchman is likely to bring his own players in meaning the languid wide man could face an uncertain future.
Italy
Mattia De Sciglio – AC Milan
The young full-back has been one of the bright sparks in an otherwise dull campaign at the San Siro and his performances have naturally generated some heavy interest in England, Spain and his native Italy. Having drawn comparisons with Davide Santon, he will be hoping to build on what his compatriot has achieved by pushing on and staying at the forefront of exciting Italian talent.
Daniele De Rossi – Roma
De Rossi has been on the verge of leaving the Giallorossi for some time now, and though he has just captained the side to a strong campaign he will no doubt be the subject of some heavy interest from overseas once again. Chelsea and Real Madrid are well known admirers, and may decide to pounce for definite this time if his leadership qualities transfer to the World Cup.
Claudio Marchisio – Juventus
The 28-year-old was one of the main reasons behind Juve’s dominance this season as they romped to yet another Scudetto. His passing, vision and dribbling ability has been greatly admired in England as Manchester United were rumoured to be circling his signature. He resisted, but with a new manager and ambition to spare he may finally be tempted to try his luck away from Turin.
Uruguay
Gaston Ramirez – Southampton
The midfield maestro was Southampton’s record signing when he joined in 2012, but in two seasons at St Mary’s he has managed just 42 appearances as he has struggled to adapt to the rigours of the Premier League. However, his stock is still high in Europe, and a series of Spanish and Italian sides will be more than keep to splash the cash if he can prove that he has no hangover from his time on the south coast.
Abel Hernandez – Palermo
Hernandez was heralded as one of Serie A’s brightest stars until they were relegated in May of last year. He has since spent a year in the second tier, but has managed to maintain a serious level of interest throughout Europe. Liverpool have been heavily linked with a move for him, though they may not be alone if he can manage to get on the pitch ahead of Uruguay’s impressive strike force and make an impact.
Edinson Cavani – Paris Saint Germain
It won’t take a World Cup for teams to generate an interest in the powerful forward, but a few goals will only help to speed the process along. Having been in electric form for his club this season he no longer wants to be overshadowed by another player and has options in the shape of Chelsea, Manchester United and Real Madrid.
Costa Rica
Keylor Navas – Levante
Navas was a virtual unknown until last year when fans, critics and scouts were all alerted to his impressive displays in between the sticks for an overachieving Levante. He has since been credited as many people’s Goalkeeper of the Season in La Liga and he has even found himself as the subject of interest from the likes of Liverpool, Everton and Barcelona.
Bryan Ruiz – Fulham
The highly-rated forward may not have displayed his best form at Craven Cottage this season, but he is still very much admired in mainland Europe. Having spent the second part of the season on loan with PSV Eindhoven where he bagged five goals in 14 games, he has since returned to west London where he will surely be jettisoned in the wake of their relegation down to the Championship.
Joel Campbell – Arsenal
Due to work permit issues the speedy forward has yet to make an appearance for the Gunners and has subsequently been shipped out to sides in France, Spain and Greece. He impressed last term with Olympiakos, where he managed to showcase his ability to a wider audience during the Champions League, and now the likes of Stoke and West Brom have been queuing up for a closer look.