Manchester City have a major decision to make this summer, as elite clubs such as Real Madrid and Juventus remain on the hunt for new forwards in the transfer window. That key decision concerns the future of exciting forward, Gabriel Jesus.

The Brazilian international is heavily linked with a move away to join Cristiano Ronaldo at Juventus, and there is no doubting that Jesus could become a very attractive proposition at the Allianz Stadium. The Serie A champions are on the hunt for a long-term forward, with Lautaro Martinez and Harry Kane also reportedly on their radar.

Jesus’ agent recently stated the player won’t be leaving the Etihad any time soon, unless the club want to sell, but the longer the player remains as an understudy to Sergio Aguero, the quicker Jesus could be out the door.

How much longer will Gabriel Jesus be considered an understudy to Sergio Aguero? There’s no question, Sergio Aguero is amongst the Premier League’s most deadliest and gifted goalscorers but sadly, the Argentinian isn’t getting any younger.

After celebrating his 23rd birthday this week, Gabriel Jesus can also look back on another positive season at the Etihad, despite his position as second in command. The Brazilian is certainly making a case to become Manchester City’s main man. 16 goals in all competitions this season, 5 in 6 Champions League games and 10 goals in 24 Premier League outings shows that the Brazilian is just the striker City need now and most importantly in the future.

His career statistics since his move to the Etihad in January 2017 makes for some impressive reading:

🌃 Jesus’ City career by the numbers

• 🏟 139 appearances
• ⚽️ 63 goals
• 🎯 25 assists
• 🏆 2 Premier League titles
• 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 1 FA Cup title
• 🥇 3 League Cup titles

His stats show his predatory instincts in front of goal as no Premier League striker, not even Aguero has converted more ‘big chances’ per 90 than his 0.66. Also the Brazilian is seventh for shots per.90 (3.46), second for efforts on target (1.93) and fifth for touches in the opposition box. (7.84) {Football Whispers}. It’s remarkable the Brazilian can’t secure a starting berth.

In terms of his expected goals data, the forward is out-performing his XG score of 0.71 and has a post-shot XG per 90 of around 0.8 which no one in the English top-flight can match, implying that Jesus continues to create much impact when he’s on the pitch. The Brazilian is your archetypal penalty box predator, always in the right place at the right time because of his fantastic awareness, positioning and silky movement in the penalty box. Maybe he’s learned enough from Sergio Aguero to now finally take his seat as Manchester City’s crowning regular up-front.

When Jesus joined Manchester City, he was an unknown quantity, but since then he’s shown why is indeed the future at the Etihad and indeed Brazil’s main no.9 for years to come. Ever since his change of scenery, only Sergio Aguero (0.88) and Harry Kane (0.83) can better his goals per-90 ratio.

Against Real Madrid, in City’s ever-so impressive away win at the Bernabeu in February, Gabriel Jesus performed at his sparkling best. Lining up in an unorthodox role in off the left-hand side, Jesus showed Guardiola just why he’s the man to take the club forward. As well as scoring City’s equaliser, the Brazillian was outstanding in his defensive responsiblities, completing two tackles and two interceptions, also holding a passing accuracy of 95.2% from 3 key passes. Jesus is simply cutting edge in both his attacking and defensive contributions.

He’s not just an out-an-out goalscorer but his understanding and ability to create space and create chances means he is well on his way to becoming a much more complete and decorated forward and he’s only just turned 23. Manchester City cannot afford to let him leave, especially to a European rival in Juventus.

Jesus has certainly come on leaps and bounds, not only in his performance, but attitude. Never complains about his role, just gets on with it, taking his chances whenever the opportunity arises, and doing so with a patience and self-belief that will only serve him well moving forward. You can’t argue with the fact that Jesus is certainly making the most of his playing time, however limited it may be.

As a result, it is remarkably imperative City strengthen their stance on the forward and appreciate him for the brilliant forward he is. What’s scary is, he’s only going to get better. They’ll very much regret the decision to allow him to leave. City will need a new saviour once Aguero calls time on his Etihad career. Guardiola must make sure the Manchester City future is a Jesus-filled one.

It’s no secret of Manchester United’s strong interest in Borussia Dortmund’s high-flying winger Jadon Sancho, with various reports stating that the England international won’t think twice about joining Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s Old Trafford revolution. Also, Manchester United have been in constant contact with the forward’s agent, even as far as a couple months.

Jadon Sancho is indeed the perfect addition for Manchester United, one that can hype up and excite the crowd once again despite Daniel James’ successful first season at Old Trafford. Sancho’s trickery, pace, unpredictability in the final third is just what is needed to lift bums off seats at the Theatre of Dreams once more.

However, United must not place all their eggs in one basket. As much of a dream signing Sancho would potentially be, there is another flying talent out there also capable of bringing the Old Trafford faithful to its knees, a player well worth taking a look at:

Fiorentina’s Italian maestro Federico Chiesa.

The winger is currently attracting interest from Manchester United, Inter Milan and Juventus. It’s been reported that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has already sent scouts to watch the exciting forward ahead of a potential summer move. Providing United somehow fail to secure the signature of Jadon Sancho this summer, Federico Chiesa is indeed the perfect alternative option.

The 22-year-old has earned rave reviews and a glowing reputation in Italy, registering 6 goals and 5 assists in Serie A this season. He may not hold the same spectacular numbers as United’s top summer target, but his impact for Fiorentina is just as massive, considering that Fiorentina are not title challengers like Borussia Dortmund. It’s instances such as these that makes Chiesa’s influence so telling. It won’t be long before the winger is writing his name in the lights on the grandest stage.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7pI00l56UQI

Federico Chiesa is the son of former Fiorentina and Italy forward Enrico Chiesa, but is more suited to playing in the wider positions, in particular on the right flank. United have missed that world class presence on the flanks this season.

Not since Nani, Antonio Valencia and Cristiano Ronaldo, have United possessed a a traditional winger truly capable of raising the roof at the Theatre of Dreams. Signings such as Memphis Depay, Angel Di Maria, Henrikh Mkhitaryan, and Alexis Sanchez have all attempted to solve United’s issues but not one of them proved any sort of success.

Daniel James has undergone a stellar first season at Old Trafford. Though, the Welshman’s progress and development – as a result of a shortage of numbers in the position – has been fast-tracked which has led to some inconsistencies in his game.

It’s unclear what position Marcus Rashford is ultimately best at but he’s thrived as a left-inside forward this season, scoring 18 goals. Anthony Martial, naturally is an inside-forward too but has been trusted with the no.9 position and its clear Solskjaer needs players who are experts in their specific roles.

Federico Chiesa, like Jadon Sancho could offer him that on the right-wing. The Italian is a typical winger. Well-versed in getting to the byline through a spectacular piece of trickery and skill before putting in telling crosses to the strikers. In fact, Chiesa is more than just your typical winger, he can perform expertly marauding from his designated position to perform roles in the half-spaces, cutting in from the left or right and working well with his fellow midfielders as well as executing a perfect shot from outside the box. He’s just as good on his left in comparison to his stronger right foot.

He’s also deployed as a split striker in Fiorentina’s 3-5-2 system. While its one that may prove rigid and less proactive, its a formation that still allows Chiesa such creative freedom. He’s required to be aggressive and direct when drifting wide to pick up possession and running the channels. The role fits him perfectly because of his non-stop running, and pressing.

The Italian maestro is also devastating on the counter-attack, whether starting one or finishing one. Chiesa’s dribbling, electrifying pace and the ease in which he can beat his opponent marks him out as the most dangerous young wingers in Europe. 50% of his goals (21) for Fiorentina have come directly from counter-attacking scenarios. What also allows him to thrive is his technique, he’s a very gifted individual which allows him to maintain the ball when dribbling and also execute shots when running at speed.

His goal against Atalanta at the start of February is a perfect example of his remarkable technique. Benassi’s cross from the right is headed clear, but then Chiesa quickly moves on to the loose ball, controls it and lets fly with a dipping half-volley into the bottom corner from all of about 25-yards. A picture-perfect goal.

His stats prove his devastating efficiency and influence in Fiorentina’s attacking moves.

His XG (expected goals) per90 minutes reads at 0.37, and XA (expected assists) per90 minutes reads at 0.12, he’s also registering impressive numbers when it comes to key passes per 90 minutes, registering on average 1.38 passes into the final third {Understat}.

Chiesa is also not afraid to have a go at goal too, registering on average over 3 shots per game, and attempting 1.5 dribbles meaning Fiorentina are always guaranteed goals when the forward is on-song.

Chiesa could fit in perfectly at United, as a traditional right-winger in Solskjaer’s favoured 4-2-3-1 formation or in the split-striker role in the more rigid and compact 3-5-2 shape like he’s done so at Fiorentina. His relentless energy and determination is just the tonic Old Trafford needs.

How United could line up with Chiesa:

4-2-3-1

3-5-2

The Italian international is so unpredictable which makes him frightening to play against. However, he can be a bit rash for his own good at times, shooting when a pass to a team-mate in a dangerous position is more feasible or trying to beat one or too many defenders which means attacking opportunities are lost.

His intelligence and decision making in the final third though, are sure to increase at a rapid rate when he does eventually move to a bigger club in the near future. It’s staggering to note that the player has never graced the Champions League, its a goal that will be high on his agenda when choosing his next destination.

Whether its Manchester United, Inter Milan or Juventus, the winger is sure to be amongst the best forward players in Europe, if he isn’t already. Providing United fail in their bid to prize Sancho away from Borussia Dortmund, Federico Chiesa would certainly prove a much more thoughtful and cheaper alternative.

According to Sky Sources, Arsenal are keen on signing Valencia midfielder Carlos Soler.

Head coach Mikel Arteta is reportedly interested in the Spanish wonderkids services and is an admirer of the player. With the coronavirus pandemic bringing an uncertainty around football currently, there is also no guarantees that the transfer market will operate in the same way this summer. However, that hasn’t stopped clubs scouting and fielding out players for their squads next summer.

It’s been reported that Arteta will be planning on making signings from his native Spain, should the window go ahead as planned.

If rumours are believed to be true then Arsenal could have a so called ‘Cesc Fabregas 2.0’ on their hands.

So who is Carlos Soler and what could he bring to the Emirates?

Who is Carlos Soler? 

Born in Valencia, Spain. Soler joined hometown club Valencia CF’s youth setup in 2005 at the tender age of eight after impressing their scouts playing for his local neighbourhood team. After initially playing as a striker, he was pushed back to an attacking midfield player because of stature, physique and impressive technical skills.

Soler’s role change didn’t stop there, he was further pushed back into the central midfield areas upon his graduation to the reserves. He made his first appearance for the reserves in May 2015, a 1-0 loss to UE Cornella in the Segunda Division B.

In December that year, he finally got off the mark scoring his first goal, the second in a 2-2 draw with CF Badalona. The following year, he was rewarded with a new contract and promoted to the first team. Soler was an unused substitute in Valencia’s 2-1 home win against Atletico Bilbao in the UEFA Europa League. His first team debut finally came in La Liga, in December 2016, coming on as a second-half substitute for Mario Suarez in a 3-2 loss against Real Sociedad. He scored his first goal for the club against rivals Villareal.

Since then, the Spanish under-21 international has never looked back, becoming a key figure for both club and at international level. He’s made 20 under-21 appearances for Spain, scoring 4 goals.

Why is Soler so highly coveted? What’s his style play? 

One aspect that allows Soler to stand out, is his incredible versatility. He’s probably the only player in the Valencia camp capable of playing in a variety of positions. As a no.10, on the flanks, as a no.8 or a deep-lying no.6. His technique, vision, passing range, and remarkable ball control allows such variety in his game.

Under Albert Celades though, Soler is mostly deployed on the flanks. In Valencia’s last outing, their Champions League defeat to Italian outfit Atalanta, he lined up on the left in 4-4-2 system.

Despite being knocked out in Europe, this is a system that has rewarded Celades in La Liga with the club lying in 7th place in the La Liga standings. It is a system which allows structure as well as fluidity and most importantly, creativity, thrust and pace on the flanks mainly through Carlos Soler and Ferran Torres. The former is the creative hub, the latter is the speed maestro.

Soler isn’t your traditional winger, one who beats his marker with a piece of trickery and gets to the byline to cross it in. Not to say he can’t perform those traits, but the Spanish under-21 midfielder isn’t renowned for it. Instead, he’s more of a wide-playmaker. It is a role translated as a player who acts as the team’s primary source of creativity, drifting inside to find space in between the lines from which to play the telling pass in the final third and create a variety of chances.

His freedom to roam out from his designated area doesn’t mean he shirks from his defensive responsibilities. In a defensive scenario, the wide playmaker will take up his position on the wing to provide cover for his full-back and also to maintain a solid shape when lining up in low blocks, or in two banks of four.

These are all traits in which Soler is appointed to fulfil and he does so with such efficiency and cutting edge. Soler is a fast and fine dribbler, as well as his extraordinary vision and passing. He is perhaps more dangerous when he cuts inside or takes up positions in behind the forward two of Gamerio and Rodrigo, threading fine through balls or disrupting the flow of an opposition defence, it allows the full-backs to roam upfield and provide an extra body in attack.

However, Soler hasn’t enjoyed the best of seasons in terms of his goal contributions. In all competitions, he’s only registered 3 goals, and an assist in 25 appearances. In fact, Valencia aren’t amongst the most potent in front of goal. They’ve only scored 38 La Liga goals from 27 games, and hold a goal difference of -1. It doesn’t make for exciting reading, however, the league table doesn’t lie, they’re only 4 points from the Champions League places and they still hold a real chance of finishing in the top four.

This campaign may not be one to remember for Soler in terms of his goal contributions, however, he still adds so much more to Valencia’s traditional system. He may not be the quickest, but what he lacks in pace, he makes up for in his work-rate, tenacity and off the ball work. In La Liga, he’s averaged 0.8 tackles per game, 0.3 interceptions and has committed, rather tellingly, 1.1 fouls per game. Other than your exciting imaginative midfielder, he’s also a workhorse, a reliable performer. It’s no wonder why Celades continues to pick him week-in, week-out.

What could he offer Arsenal? 

It’s unclear how Soler will fit in at the Emirates. Arsenal do not line-up in a traditional 4-4-2 setup in order for him to line-up as he does on the flanks. However, you could see why Arteta holds an interest in the player. It’s his vision, passing, technical acumen and Spanish traits that makes him an attractive acquisition.

There is the belief that Arteta could line-up in a formation that he worked so well with at Manchester City alongside Pep Guardiola. If Arsenal lined up in that system, it won’t be foreign to Soler, he is traditionally an attacking midfielder.

How Arsenal could line-up next season if they sign reported targets:

He could line-up in a ‘free-8’ role alongside Dani Ceballos (providing he extends his loan from Real Madrid), one which lends him the opportunity to work in and around the no.10 positions while also helping out in defence too. Soler’s efficiency both in attack and defence as he has expertly shown since his breakthrough at Valencia could be a vital tool for Arteta if he lined up as shown above.

With much better performers alongside him, there’s no reason why Soler can’t become a much better performer at a bigger club.

With Euro 2020 and the Olympics suspended till 2021 due to the coronavirus outbreak, it gives many clubs the opportunity to focus their attentions on recruitment and scouting potential targets. Despite the domestic competitions around Europe set to continue into the summer as a result of the pandemic, it is unclear whether it will have much of an impact on the transfer window with UEFA working out whether there will be changes. What we do know, is that while there may be little action on the pitch, there are still a lot of rumours flying off it.

Now more than ever, it really is wonderkid season, with clubs placing a more intense focus on recruiting young (and perhaps then selling high) than ever before. Don’t expect this glowing frenzy to stop anytime soon; in fact, it’s best to arm yourself with the knowledge of which of these wonderkids is sure to be choosing greener pastures this summer, who could be signing them and why they are so highly coveted.

Here’s a list of 10 of those key individuals (outside the Premier League) with big futures and who are sure to be at the forefront of your footballing reports come June:

Kai Havertz, Bayer Leverkusen

Time is certainly running out for Kai Havertz at Bayer Leverkusen. The attacking midfielder has been around for ages, and he’s only 20 years of age. Arguably one of the most exciting attacking midfield talents in Europe currently, he really needs a bigger stage to exert himself and show that he has what it takes to dominate the game for years to come.

He’s well on his way to achieving just that.

No disrespect to Leverkusen, he won’t be able to fulfil those lofty feats if he stays at the BayArena beyond this summer.

Since the turn of the year, the German international has been in red hot form:

The rough patch he endured before Christmas is well and truly in the past. An incredibly silky, smooth, left-footed playmaker, he just seems seconds ahead of everyone else on the pitch. He plays passes without looking, chips balls into runners no one else sees and returns his fair share of goals. He’s also remarkably cool in possession, like everyone else on the pitch plays at his tempo. He’s also incredible versatile too, capable of playing anywhere across the midfield positions but its behind the striker where you’d get the most out of him. Such an elegant and joyous player to watch at times.

Kai Havertz won’t come cheap. Bayer Leverkusen, now more than ever are resigned to losing him and it is believed it would take around €90 – 100 million euros to prize him away. It may be much, but considering the rate at which he’s performing and the remarkable potential in his locker, he’ll be worth every penny.

Interested parties: Bayern Munich, Liverpool, Manchester United

Jadon Sancho, Borussia Dortmund

One of the most fearsome attacking talents in European football, and he’s just 19 years of age. It’s no secret of the tremendous talents and abilities that Jadon Sancho possesses these days. The former Manchester City starlet is enjoying an even better campaign than last at Dortmund, and the season isn’t even close to finishing just yet.

14 goals Bundesliga goals and 15 assists is truly outstanding. Rarely do you see a winger confidently and easily attempt to his beat his marker and perform it with such class and aplomb. Jadon Sancho oozes such extraordinary qualities. Wherever the player may be heading next, that lucky club will have to cherish and hold on to the player for dear life. Borussia Dortmund, currently don’t have that luxury, and like their German counterparts, Bayer Leverkusen, they are about to lose their most prized asset.

The club are looking to cash in this summer, and there are already a whole host of clubs lining up for his signature. His numbers tell its own story. Need we say more about Jadon Sancho? We do have to keep our eyes closely peeled on developments this summer, and the player himself will have to choose his next destination with much much caution.

Interested parties: Manchester United, Chelsea, Real Madrid, Liverpool 

Jude Bellingham, Birmingham City

At just 16 years of age, we must be very sensitive as to the amount of hype and pressure we put on Jude Bellingham’s young shoulders. What’s impressive about the player though, is that at his tender age, he’s already such a vital component for Pep Clotet at Birmingham City.

The midfielder is deployed in a variety of roles, because of his tireless energy, remarkably tall frame and elegant style. Traditionally a box-to-box midfielder, Bellingham has also been tasked with performing duties out wide and he has fulfilled those roles with such brilliant maturity and understanding. He’s quick, agile, technically sound and holds a fire in his belly that so few players rarely possess. 4 goals and 2 assists from 32 appearances in such a high demanding league is a testament to his character and ability at such a young age, the future really is massively bright for Bellingham.

Manchester United and Chelsea have already sounded out their interest in the player with the former inviting him and his family to take a tour of their training complex. It’s lengths such as those that indicate how highly rated he is. First-team football has to be high on his agenda, maybe spending another year at St Andrews may be best for his development.

Interested parties: Manchester United, Chelsea, Juventus, Borussia Dortmund, Bayern Munich

Timo Werner, RB Leipzig 

Yet another player enjoying an extroadinary season in the Bundesliga. RB Leipzig’s hitman Timo Werner is certainly to watch out for in future. 21 goals in 25 Bundesliga appearances, only Robert Lewandowski can better those numbers. In all competitions, he’s scored 27 goals, including 4 in this years Champions League.

Werner has been a key component this season for exciting young coach Julian Nagelsmann as the club continue their impressive pursuit of their first Bundesliga title. 5 points behind Bayern Munich, and all hopes of closing in on the Bundesliga leaders hinges on the form of their main marksman. What’s also impressive of Werner is that he rarely plays closer to goal, he mostly operating on the left-wing, right-wing or in the half-spaces, playing the role of a withdrawn striker, but its his frightening pace, movement, positional understanding in and around the penalty area which makes him so deadly.

His link-up play is fantastic too. The German number nine has also contributed 7 assists, a true sign of his all around abilities. He’s not just a regular scorer, but he can provide them too. His next destination is unclear right now, despite his preference to play at Anfield. Will he get the required game time under Jurgen Klopp? It’s unlikely.

Werner’s ongoing development must be paramount in his decision making. You can’t rule him out staying at Leipzig too. The club as a whole is growing, he could be the poster boy of their impressive revolution.

Interested parties: Chelsea, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Manchester United

Lautaro Martinez, Inter Milan

Argentinian Lautaro Martinez is amongst the finest young strikers in European football and this season, he’s shown why he has what it takes to become the best of the lot. Martinez is your typical modern-day striker. A complete forward with a fine balance of pace, strength, agility, aerial prowess and a relentless energy that makes him such a stubborn outlet in Antonio Conte’s rigid and shrewd 3-5-2 system. His partnership with Romelu Lukaku has come on leaps and bounds this season with 28 goals between them in Serie A.

If Inter still harbour any ambitions to finally knock Juventus off their perch come the end of the season, then they must keep their two strikers fit. There is also the small matter of Ciro Immobile and co at Lazio, but anything can happen once the season resumes. Lautaro Martinez’ contribution could easily swing the pendulum Inter’s way. It is unclear whether Martinez will remain at the San Siro beyond this season, and a Serie A triumph could swing his decision making. Barcelona are knocking on his door and there is no doubt that the player can become a cult hero alongside Leo Messi at the Camp Nou too.

The perfect replacement for Luis Suarez.

Interested parties: Barcelona, Real Madrid, Manchester United

Ruben Dias, Benfica

One of the most highly coveted young centre-backs in Europe right now. Benfica’s Ruben Dias is one player sure to be at the centre of much interest this summer. It’s even a surprise he’s lasted this long at the club, with many believing that the defender should have moved onto greener grass much earlier.

At 22 years of age, Ruben Dias is already in his third season as a regular. Partnered with fellow graduate Ferro, Dias is a highly influential figure in Benfica’s back-line who have just conceded 14 goals in 24 league matches this season. Benfica average 0.58 goals conceded per game, 0.12 less than any other team in the Primeira Liga or in Europe’s top five leagues.

Dias is largely to thank for this solid record. He organises the back line, is dominant both in the air & on the ground, and his calm, commanding presence is instilled across the defence. He has won 2.2 aerial duels per90, 3.4 interceptions per90 & 2/3 defensive duels on average. His ability to play out from the back is a key component too, much of Benfica’s impressive football stems from Dias and Ferro’s passing abilities from defence. Despite oppositions who typically prioritise sitting back and cutting passing lanes, Dias is patient and precise on the ball, a crucial factor in building Benfica attacks. The centre-back has completed 3.6 long balls per 90, with an overall pass success rate of 90%.

He’d be perfect for a team like Manchester City. Pep Guardiola is reportedly a big admirer also. Benfica are known for their shrewd player sales, and Ruben Dias will not come cheap.

Interested parties: Manchester City, Wolverhampton Wanderers, Arsenal, Barcelona

Boubakary Soumare, LOSC Lille

If you need any knowledge on what constitutes a typical box-to-box midfielder, then Boubakary Soumare is your man. A truly powerful, quick and domineering presence in the middle.

He is a ball recovery machine, always hoovering up attacks, starting attacks with his direct and swift passing, or duelling someone for the ball, or ripping it off them. Against Chelsea in the Champions League in December, he was a nuisance. Recovering the ball 16 times. It’s no wonder why Chelsea quickly became interested in his services soon after the game.

And there are so many teams who could do with his metronomic, athletic and powerful presence in midfield. The queue for his services this summer could be an incredibly long one.

Interested parties: Paris Saint-Germain, Newcastle, Chelsea, Manchester United, Arsenal, Everton

Sandro Tonali, Brescia 

We all miss Andrea Pirlo. A quiet and measured artist on the ball, yet his abilities and influence on the pitch was clearly noticeable from deep in midfield. Football may have lost such a decorated player, but we may have a Pirlo reincarnated on our hands in Brescia’s Sandro Tonali.

Not only does he look like the Juventus legend, but he holds similar abilities too. He plays the same deep-lying playmaker role that Pirlo helped shape into prominence, and although his club are on the verge of relegation from Serie A, he always stands out in most games.

At 19 years of age, Tonali has it all. Fantastic range of passing, vision, robust in the tackle, a good spatial awareness of his role, positional and tactical understanding and an almost inspiring trait of leading his team despite his tender age. It is just a number. He is so cool and calm on the ball, will play his way out of pressure, can dictate play with ease, scores the odd bullet from range and even has the same shaggy hair as Pirlo. He’s a bit stockier and more robust, though, and perhaps a little more mobile and two-footed, too.

Regardless of whether Brescia beat the drop or not, Tonali’s services are better served elsewhere. The footballing world needs Andrea Pirlo back, oh wait, we have the next best thing… Sandro Tonali.

Interested parties: AC Milan, Juventus, Barcelona, Inter Milan, Roma and Manchester City

Dayot Upamecano, RB Leipzig

Like Ruben Dias, Upamecano is amongst the most highly coveted young centre-backs in European football. His calling cards has always been his tremendously athletic build and his amazing dribbling abilities from the back. His recovery speed is also one of his outstanding traits, capable of matching the most quickest and skilful forwards if need be. His unique traits also makes him perfect for the high-press, high-line, modern tactical approach and his powerful build has given him the opportunity to play senior football since the age of 17.

Under Julian Nagelsmann, his passing and on-the-ball decision-making have improved dramatically, and he’s put in some immense individual defensive showings in his own box this term. Against Tottenham in the Champions League, the defender put in an outstanding performance as Leipzig quite swiftly knocked them out of the competition. Assured on the ball, strong in the tackle, and a real leader at the back.

He’s another one on the list in which potential suitors could become such a long list.

Interested parties: Barcelona, Arsenal, Chelsea

Fabian Ruiz, Napoli

Believe the upcoming hype surrounding Fabian Ruiz when it does come finally about. The Spanish international is reportedly a key target for Zinedine Zidane at Real Madrid, and the player duly deserves such recognition.

The 23-year-old has established himself as one of the most talented midfielders in Europe and within a Napoli squad which is blessed with an array of talents, he is the most influential. One of the main attractions of Ruiz is not the consistent standout performances that he puts in, nor the ease with which he seems to set himself apart from his peers, rather it is the fact he appears to have no significant weaknesses to his game. In other words, he is the complete midfielder.

Although predominantly a left-footed player, Ruiz is more than comfortable transitioning to his supposed weaker foot, and this is complemented by his ability to play anywhere across the midfield – whether being utilised as a defensive midfielder, a central pillar, a creative attacking outlet or being deployed on the left or right hand side of midfield. It’s because of this versatility, he is now a regular feature for Spain at international level too. When watching Ruiz, he is player in which much attention is required rather than a quick glance. The way in which he controls the game, aids his teammates around him and his almost telepathic understanding with the forwards.

He may not score enough goals, but when he does find the net, it does become a regular box-office on social media. Either a cute, delicate curled effort from outside the box or a scorcher, the player is blessed with such a fine and unique skill-set. In all competitions so far in the 2019/20 season, Ruiz has contributed four assists, 1.8 key passes per game, 74.8 passes per 90 mins with a passing accuracy of 89.1%.

An intricate and influential midfielder, his talents are truly served on the grandest stage.

Interested parties: Barcelona, Real Madrid, Manchester City, Liverpool