Which players that will appear in Sunday’s 2014 FIFA World Cup final could be changing clubs this summer…
The World Cup is always a prime opportunity for players to put themselves in the shop window. With that in mind, here is our list of 10 World Cup finalists who could still make a move this summer:
Mats Hummels (Germany)
Manchester United are believed to be firm admirers of the Borussia Dortmund defender, and the Guardian believes that he would be the perfect fit at Old Trafford. The 25-year-old could cost up to £30m.
Marcos Rojo (Argentina)
Chelsea, Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester United have all been linked with this Argentine left-back. United have since added Luke Shaw, while Chelsea are closing in on Filipe Luis. However, Liverpool remain keen on a new left back, and the Sporting Lisbon man could fit the bill.
Sami Khedira (Germany)
Arsenal are keen on the Real Madrid star, who is valued at around £24m. The Daily Mail believes that Arsene Wenger wants to expand his midfield options, with Lars Bender a potential alternative if Khedira’s wage demands prove too high.
Enzo Perez (Argentina)
The Benfica midfielder was impressive in Argentina’s semi-final victory over the Netherlands, and has now been linked with a £7m move to Manchester United. Valencia were thought to be closing in on the player, but the Old Trafford club could make a late move.
Toni Kroos (Germany)
The midfield star, who scored twice in the German’s 7-1 semi-final rout of Brazil, is believed to be close to signing for Real Madrid, after Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal elected not to pursue a move setup by his predecessor, David Moyes.
Ezequiel Garay (Argentina)
One man who has already completed his transfer is Argentina defender Ezequiel Garay, who has agreed to join Andre Villas-Boas at Zenit St Petersburg, who he will move to from Benfica. Manchester United had been interested.
Julian Draxler (Germany)
Long-term Arsenal target Draxler has now been linked with a move to Tottenham, who have been reportedly preparing a £17m package for the Schalke midfielder. The 20-year-old turned down a move to Arsenal in January.
Angel Di Maria (Argentina)
Manchester United are continuing to monitor the situation regarding the Real Madrid winger, who is reportedly keen on a move. Louis Van Gaal has identified Di Maria as a key target, but could yet be put off by Madrid’s lofty asking price.
Miroslav Klose (Germany)
The World Cup’s record goal scorer has seemingly committed himself to Lazio, despite rumours linking him with Arsenal. Klose scored his 16th World Cup goal during the 7-1 semi-final victory over Brazil.
Gonzalo Higuain (Argentina)
A long-term transfer target of Arsenal, who has also been linked with Liverpool, this Argentine striker has also promised he will be remaining in Italy with Napoli next season. But could a £30m bid yet change his mind?