Five young stars that Premier League sides should spare no expense in signing.
5. Viktor Fischer – Ajax
Alongside Christian Eriksen, the 19-year-old proved himself to be one of Europe’s most exciting talents. And in Eriksen’s absence he has continued to develop into a truly wonderful player capable of taking the world on in the coming years. Primarily a left winger, he was able to make a strong contribution to the club winning another Eredivise title. Having already been scouted by the likes of Manchester United and currently champions City, now could be the time to pounce as Inter Milan and Barcelona begin to circle.
4. Julian Draxler – Schalke
For a year now Arsenal have been in hot pursuit of the talented 20-year-old, and for a year both player and club have resisted their advances. However, after picking up the FA Cup last season, Arsenal are no longer in a position to be messing around, and if they are serious about securing his signature then they need to make Schalke and Draxler offers they can’t refuse. Perhaps a decent showing at the World Cup will prompt them to get the chequebook out.
3. Luke Shaw – Southampton
First Pochettino left, then Lambert followed – these events could be the beginning of a mass exodus on the south coast, one that threatens to drag them down to the lower reaches of the leage. One such star that could be set for a move is Luke Shaw, the future of the English left flank. He has enjoyed two impressive seasons with the Saints, and has seen both Manchester United and Chelsea both take long, lingering looks at his situation. A big fee has already been mooted, and he will likely prove to be worth every penny as his acquisition could mean that whoever wins the race need not ever sign another left-back again.
2. Marquinhos – Paris Saint Germain
Poor old Marquinhos has been passed around more times than an unwanted Christmas present over the past two years, but this summer why should Barcelona get all the fun? With Chelsea’s new emphasis on youth surely he would be an ideal target for them as they look to overhaul their squad. Likely to be a huge star in the future, Premier League clubs could be left kicking themselves if they don’t even make an initial approach. Barca are a tempting prospect, sure, but they aren’t the force they were three years ago.
1. William Carvalho – Sporting Lisbon
The Portuguese giants often produce excellent players, and have been responsible for giving some world some of its finest superstars over the past 30 years, and Carvalho is evidence that they are still capable of coming up with the goods. Manchester United are known fans, having scouted him close to 20 times over the course of the campaign, but with David Moyes out the way there are question marks over whether the club are still interested. However, Louis Van Gaal would do well to send a pair of eyes over to Group G where the youngster will be featuring for his country.