After Barcelona confirmed on Monday night, via their Twitter, that an agreement had been with Atletico Madrid for the sale of Arda Turan – who has been heavily linked to Chelsea and Manchester United – we’ve taken a look at five other playmakers Jose Mourinho and Louis van Gaal could target instead this summer.
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Have a read below…
5. Isco – Real Madrid
With Luka Modric and Toni Kroos set to command central midfield next season, and rumours suggesting that Gareth Bale will be handed a No.10 role at the Santiago Bernabeu, Isco may not have many chances to play in his preferred playmaker position under Rafael Benitez – which could tempt the 23-year-old into assessing his future in the Spanish capital.
The Spain international showed glimpses of magic in the previous campaign, but perhaps he needs to break free of the pressures in Madrid to fulfil his potential.
4. Mario Gotze – Bayern Munich
Pep Guardiola appears to have limited confidence in the German playmaker at the Allianz Arena, with just two assists last season suggesting that the 23-year-old is struggling to settle into the former Barcelona manager’s side.
According to comments from his agent in the Daily Star, the former Borussia Dortmund isn’t feeling the ‘support’ of the Bavarians, and perhaps now would be a fine time for suitors to pounce on his signature.
3. Kevin De Bruyne – Vfl Wolfsburg
The Belgium midfielder was simply outstanding last season – breaking the record of the most assists recorded in a Bundesliga campaign.
There are few playmakers with higher confidence than the 24-year-old at present, and after failing to impress Chelsea, he may well fancy revenge in the Premier League.
Whether De Bruyne would be open to a return to the Blues is certainly up for debate, but with Manchester City apparently after his signature [via the Manchester Evening News], could – or should – the Red Devils challenge their ‘noisy neighbours’ for the youngster?
2. Koke – Atletico Madrid
Chelsea have previously been credited with interest for the Estadio Vicente Calderon star [via The Guardian], as Mourinho eyes another summer raid on Diego Simeone’s side.
The Spain midfielder registered 14 assists last term – eight more than Atleti team-mate Arda Turan who has earned a move to Barcelona this summer – but even more impressive is his work-rate and his ability to understand when playing direct is required.
At just 23-years-old, Koke is one of the most exciting prospects in Europe, and a reunion with Diego Costa would certainly add even more grit – and quality – to Mourinho’s side.
1. Marco Verratti – Paris Saint-Germain
The Italy international enjoyed an excellent season – earning comparisons to international team-mate and Serie A legend Andrea Pirlo [via Goal.com].
Nonetheless, while possessing playmaking similarities to the now-New York City FC midfielder, Verratti is also tough in the centre of the park, which suggests that the 22-year-old could be the perfect fit for the Premier League.
