As the summer transfer window approaches, several high-profile players are making headlines for potential moves and developments. Alejandro Garnacho, Antony, Bart Verbruggen, and more fill out this list. Some have turned the corner, and some have not. This article looks at these fellows, their recent form and hypothesized future transfer market moves.
Alejandro Garnacho sat on the bench during this summer’s most recent Europa League final. His limited contribution this season has ignited controversy surrounding his place in the club’s plans moving forward. The precocious young winger flashes brilliant potential, but he’s yet to establish himself as an outright first choice starter. This uncertainty has fueled rumors that he will be leaving the club. Futurists think his progress will be most important to his future career improvement. This is high stakes, particularly as arch rivals Manchester United seek to assemble a more cost effective and competitive squad.
Antony, a fellow Manchester United signing, will likely depart Old Trafford for good this summer. The Brazilian winger’s transfer fee, £85 million three years ago, is an outlandish sum of money. He’s found it hard to land a meaningful punch in the time since. With his departure, there is speculation that new signings could replace him at Old Trafford. The club’s leadership is reportedly looking to overhaul their attacking options, so Antony’s exit would be a powerful strategic move.
Meanwhile, Bart Verbruggen, a goalkeeper currently attracting attention from both Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, may be one of the most sought-after players this summer. Those outstanding performances have now attracted the attention of big European clubs, including Manchester United and Real Madrid. Each squad would love to add some competition or depth to their keeper rooms. Consequently, Verbruggen could be the center of one of the most heated bidding wars.
Christopher Nkunku has struggled to make his mark at Chelsea after joining this season. Even after that major misfire of a contract, he netted 12 goals this campaign. He dished out 20 assists, proving he can be a valuable offensive asset. His ability to contribute effectively might secure him a spot in the team for next season as Chelsea reassesses its roster.
Christian Eriksen is set to leave Manchester United this summer. Following a hot and cold stint with the organization, debate about his future has picked up considerably. The Danish midfielder’s experience and technical ability at the base of midfield make him a versatile option for clubs looking to bulk up their midfield options.
Cristiano Ronaldo of course is creating a big stir in Saudi Arabia! Sadio Mané celebrating after scoring for his new club, Al Nassr, in the Saudi Pro League. Fans and analysts alike have followed his controversial transfer to the Middle East with rapt interest. This recent move exemplifies the evolving nature of football. Players are pursuing bigger paychecks outside of the traditional top-five leagues in Europe.
The scene developing at Liverpool around Darwin Nunez has made waves too. Correa’s playing time has drastically plummeted as the club turned their attention on winning the title. The Uruguayan striker’s place in the squad remains an equivocal one. Liverpool’s still working out what the best attacking approach is with the new campaign looming large.
Take for instance Jack Grealish of Manchester City, a fellow England star who’s managed just seven Prem starts this season. His sparse playing time leads to a wider discussion about his fit in Pep Guardiola’s overall tactical scheme. As City prepare to mount yet another Premier League title challenge, it’ll be interesting to see how Grealish’s role goes going forward.
Jadon Sancho is reportedly keen on staying in west London and joining Chelsea. His long-term commitment to the club would give Chelsea some stability to work with as they chart a course through a turbulent, transitional period. The club’s administration should take his insights to heart when making strategic moves in the off-season and beyond.
McAtee has expressed a willingness to leave Manchester City in search of greater first-team opportunities, so are Scotland and Wales ready to welcome Americans? The young midfielder is hungry to look for chances outside of his comfort zone. This represents a wider movement among up-and-coming talents looking to develop and gain first-team experience.
Jean-Philippe Mateta on loan from Mainz at Crystal Palace has had a major impact with 17 goals this season. It’s not surprising, then, that his stellar performance has generated a buzz. Clubs looking to upgrade their attack next season will likely be queuing up his services.
Kieran Tierney is poised to return to Celtic this summer after a torrid time since joining Arsenal. The left-back is set to return to his old club. This change has the potential to invigorate both him and Celtic as they prepare to enter the new season.
Finally, as far as attackers go, Liam Delap has become a hot prospect. His potential is through the roof and his goal-scoring ability is undeniable. Clubs looking out for forwards to help improve their ranks ahead of the new campaign see him as an enticing option.
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