Tottenham made a late attempt to sign Joao Moutinho from Porto towards the end of last summer’s transfer window as a replacement for the departing attacking midfield duo of Luka Modric to Real Madrid and Rafael van der Vaart to Hamburg. Andre Villas-Boas knows Moutinho from when the two were together at Porto, and saw the playmaker as an ideal addition to his squad. However, a move failed to materalise and the 26-year-old stayed in Portugal.
It is now being rumoured that Spurs will try for him again this summer, with Villas-Boas determined to land his man. Moutinho would still be useful at White Hart Lane as adequate replacements for Modric and van der Vaart were never really found; Gylfi Sigurdsson and Clint Dempsey have had inconsistent seasons and may even be sold this summer to fund a move for Moutinho, who they hope would help push them to that elusive fourth spot. The North Londoners may face competition from Monaco for his signature, but he’s certainly unlikely to be at Porto for much longer.
9. Andre Schurrle (Bayer Leverkusen to Chelsea)
Chelsea nearly signed this talented German winger last summer, and remain fond of his skills. A year on, his stock has risen even higher, with more fine performances in the Bundesliga, confirming him as one of the best of many talented young players coming through in Germany at the moment. The 22-year-old attacker has 11 goals and 7 assists this season and is being widely tipped to seal a move to Stamford Bridge in the coming weeks, as the club’s owners have confirmed he will be leaving.
Schurrle himself has also said himself that he has played his last game for Bayer Leverkusen, and unless someone else makes a late bid, Chelsea will surely be his destination. He will cost around £20million and looks a promising signing for the Blues, who will hope he can provide something a bit different in their attacking midfield positions, or even play upfront on occasion and prove more of a goal threat than the misfiring Fernando Torres.
8. Leighton Baines (Everton to Manchester United)
Leighton Baines has been one of the best full-backs in the Premier League for a number of years now, looking set for big things ever since impressing as a youngster at Wigan. Last season he finally looked like making a big move to Manchester United, though a deal was never completed between the two sides. He has gone on to improve even more this season, scoring 5 goals and providing 5 assists from left-back, and showing himself to be a great attacking threat with his forward runs, long range shots and teasing crosses.
With David Moyes leaving Everton to take over from Sir Alex Ferguson at Old Trafford, he is understandably keen to push a deal through this summer. United could do with strengthening at left-back, where Patrice Evra looks somewhat past his best, and backup Alexander Buttner has not looked like becoming first choice with his displays this season. Baines looks like an excellent signing, and he will surely welcome the chance to link up with Moyes once again.
7. Bacary Sagna (Arsenal to PSG)
Bacary Sagna has been something of an unsung hero for the Gunners, proving a reliable and consistent performer in his six seasons at the Emirates Stadium. However, the French right-back’s time at the club may now be coming to an end, as speculation has increased over the last few months that he will leave the club. The 30-year-old has failed to agree on a new contract after being locked in talks for much of the season, and criticised the club earlier in the year for selling key duo Robin van Persie and Alex Song last summer.
PSG have been monitoring his situation and seem his most likely destination, as he has admitted he would not rule out a move to the French capital. Sagna has one year to go on his current contract, and may leave on a free at the end of next season, though it seems more likely that Arsenal will want to cash in on him now, with PSG and others willing to offer around £12million for his services. It will be another big blow to Arsene Wenger, as he faces the inevitable exit of a key player due to a lack of ambition and progress in recent years.
6. Carlos Tevez (Manchester City to…?)
Carlos Tevez looked certain to be leaving Manchester City early last season after a major falling out with manager Roberto Mancini, when he refused to come on as a substitute against Bayern Munich in a Champions League game. The Argentine had long made it clear that he wanted to leave England to be closer to his family in Argentina, but had failed to agree a move away in the summer. A number of Italian clubs, such as AC Milan and Inter Milan, were reportedly close to signing him that January, but were perhaps not willing to pay City’s asking price due to understandable worries over the player’s attitude and discipline.
Tevez ended up staying at the club, and worked on his fitness and form to get himself back in the team towards the end of the season, aiding them in their title triumph. He continued to improve this season, playing regularly without any fuss, but is still understood to be keen on a move away. Juventus and Monaco are now said to be the main contenders to sign him, and he could be one of many players to leave the Etihad Stadium this summer as they look to make some changes to a team that gave Manchester United a fairly easy ride in winning the Premier League title this year.
5. Robert Lewandowski (Borussia Dortmund to Bayern Munich)
The Polish striker’s name has been on everyone’s lips for the last year after emerging as one of Europe’s best strikers at Borussia Dortmund. The goals have flowed once again for the 24-year-old in another superb season, and he really put himself in the shop window with an incredible four goals in his side’s 4-1 win against Real Madrid in the semi-finals of the Champions League. Manchester United wanted to sign him last summer, but ended up signing Robin van Persie from Arsenal instead.
The Red Devils are still keen on him this year, as their search for strikers continues with the likely departures of Wayne Rooney and Javier Hernandez, and Chelsea have also been linked with him. However, this transfer saga looks likely to end with Lewandowski joining Dortmund’s fierce rivals Bayern Munich. The Bundesliga champions are understood to be his preference, and that will hurt Dortmund fans, even if he can give them a parting gift with some goals against Bayern as they meet in this weekend’s Champions League final.
4. Stevan Jovetic (Fiorentina to Arsenal)
The Montenegro forward has been strongly linked with Arsenal since January, and rumours are hotting up that a deal is now close to bring him to the Emirates Stadium this summer. Manchester City have previously been linked with the 23-year-old, and Juventus have been said to be considering a late bid to hijack the deal, but it seems increasingly likely that he will be wearing an Arsenal shirt next season.
Jovetic is one of Serie A’s brightest talents, making an impact since joining Fiorentina from Partizan Belgrade as a teenager, and continuing his fine form with 13 goals and 5 assists for La Viola this season. The skilful player should slot perfectly into Arsenal’s system, and will likely be confirmed as an Arsenal player in the next few weeks.
3. Andy Carroll (Liverpool to…?)
The bizarre story of Andy Carroll’s time at Anfield should finally come to an end this summer. Despite signing for a club-record fee of £35million, the former Newcastle man has flopped spectacularly for the club and they now can’t wait to get rid of him. He barely featured for the team last season and they did their best to offload him last summer, with Newcastle supposedly keen on taking him back to St James’ Park. In the end he was farmed out on loan to West Ham, where he has done fairly well this season.
A seemingly archetypal Sam Allardyce type of player, the Hammers are keen to keep him permanently for next season, though negotiations are ongoing. Liverpool’s asking price may still be too high at £17million, as they look to make back a decent chunk of the fee they paid for him. His style of play means he is very unlikely to stay at the club under Brendan Rodgers, but it remains to be seen who will take him on next year. It’ll either be West Ham or Newcastle, though big-spending French club Monaco have also shown a surprise interest in the England international.
2. Daniele De Rossi (Roma to Manchester City)
Roberto Mancini is known to be a big fan of Roma midfielder Daniele De Rossi, and tried several times to sign him when he was at Manchester City. Though the Italian manager has now been sacked by the club, their interest in the 29-year-old remains, and it seems likely that with Gareth Barry and Javi Garcia possibly leaving the Etihad Stadium in the summer, new boss Manuel Pellegrini will bid for the Italy international again.
The 29-year-old could be available for just £10million due to a slight dip in form with Roma making him no longer considered to be such a key player, but City still see him as a better option than many of their current central midfielders. Other players of this kind have been linked with City, such as Fernandinho of Shakhtar Donetsk, though the Brazilian would be far more expensive than De Rossi. All signs point to City finally landing their man, who has spent his entire career so far in Rome.
1. Neymar (Santos to Barcelona)
Probably the best young player in the world, everyone has been waiting for Santos star Neymar to make a move to Europe ever since he burst onto the scene a few years ago as a teenager. Now 21, he has an incredible 136 goals for the Brazilian side and regularly dazzles defenders with his superb dribbling skills. He looks like being the next Lionel Messi, and could be lining up alongside the Argentine star at Barcelona next season. Barca are favourites to land him, and have been for a number of years, due to an obvious compatibility between the club and the player in terms of style of play and a philosophy at the Nou Camp of nurturing talented young players.
Neymar is said to prefer a switch to Barcelona, though recent reports suggest there could be a snag in the deal to bring him to the club, due to a disagreement between the two clubs over a transfer fee. Real Madrid may look to make a late move for him, and Chelsea and Manchester City are also monitoring the situation, but from a neutral point of view, most football fans will probably be hoping he ends up at Barcelona, as it seems the best place for him to make the most out of his talents. They will still be favourites to get him, though, and this deal, which would be one of the signings of the summer, could be completed after the Confederations Cup, in which Neymar will be representing Brazil.
Tottenham are preparing to sell a number of their squad this summer as they look to regroup after missing out on a place in next season’s Champions League according to The Mirror.
The White Hart Lane side were left heart-broken after once more finding themselves denied access to Europe’s elite club competition on the last day of the season.
But Spurs boss Andre Vilas-Boas is ready to put that right next time out and is ready to pursue an aggressive transfer policy over the coming months.
First out of the door is likely to be Manu Adebayor who has been in disappointing form for most of the season and managed a paltry tally of just five Premier League goals. Joining him is likely to be Clint Dempsey who has failed to replicate his form for Fulham at White Hart Lane.
They are likely to be replaced by one or more from Aston Villa’s Christian Benteke, Barcelona striker David Villa, Zenit St Petersburg’s Hulk or Lisandro Lopez from Lyon.
Jermain Defore is reportedly likely to have to accept a place on the bench after his manager became increasingly frustrated with his inability to hit the back of the net following the turn of the year.
Defoe still managed a respectable eleven goals but may find his role reduced to that of impact sub.
Yaya Sanogo has confirmed that he will be moving to Arsenal this summer, telling Sky Sports he is looking forward to meeting his new team-mates.
The 20-year-old is a highly rated young striker, who will become the third player in recent history to move from Auxerre to the Emirates Stadium, after Abou Diaby and Bacary Sagna.
Sanogo is a tall, strong and pacey forward who has had some troubles with injuries, but who should give the Gunners something a bit different upfront next season.
Arsene Wenger is known for having an eye for young talent and giving a chance to lesser-known players, and this will no doubt have played a part in persuading Sanogo to join the club.
“Arsenal could be a great club for me, I scored nine goals this season with Auxerre and they think I can improve my level in England,” he said.
“I am pleased to be following in the footsteps of Abou Diaby who came through from Auxerre.
“There are many teams interested in me, but Arsenal is my choice.”
Sanogo was also watched by Tottenham and Chelsea, but will become the first signing of the summer for Arsenal, though probably not the last as Wenger has reportedly been given £70million to spend in this year’s transfer window.
The likes of Fiorentina’s Stevan Jovetic and and Valencia’s Adil Rami are also long-time targets who are likely to join.
Tottenham will have to pay £15million to Wigan for their highly-rated midfielder James McCarthy, according to the Daily Mirror.
The 22-year-old has impressed for the Latics this season, attracting interest from the likes of Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea as well as Spurs, despite being unable to help Wigan avoid the drop.
McCarthy was also a key performer in the club’s shock FA Cup win over Manchester City, and Spurs are keen on bringing him in to replace the ageing Scott Parker, whom they are happy to sell to Queens Park Rangers.
The Irishman is one of a few Wigan players being eyed up by bigger clubs following their drop to the Championship, and they could also lose Franco Di Santo and Callum McManaman, as well as their manager Roberto Martinez.
In fact, it has even been rumoured that Martinez will look to sign McCarthy for Everton if he chooses to take over from David Moyes at Goodison Park.
Spurs have a number of other targets as they look to improve on their fifth place finish next season.
The 23-year-old’s future has come under speculation after Spurs failed to qualify for the Champions League, but the club’s coach is confident their star man is going nowhere
It’s end of season poll time. We will invite our readers to vote in a poll that will help us to produce a Premier League Best XI of 2012/13. Today is the turn of the central, holding or defensive midfielders. Morgan Schneiderlin (Southampton) …
This thrilling Manchester derby on the 9th of December was when the title really started to sway in United’s direction. Wayne Rooney scored two first half goals to give his side a shock 2-0 lead at the home of the champions. City then looked to be making their comeback, scoring through Yaya Toure on the hour mark, and then through Pablo Zabaleta late on in the 86th minute. With the game heading for a draw, Roberto Mancini witnessed a painful moment as his main transfer target of the summer, Robin van Persie, scored a stoppage time winner for United from a free kick. Samir Nasri earned much-deserved wrath after moving out of the way of the Dutchman’s shot, allowing it to creep in. Sir Alex Ferguson’s side had been beaten easily there just a few months earlier, but this special victory put his side six points clear at the top of the table and highlighted the cracks that were starting to appear in the City team.
Once again, these two sides produced a classic in the North London derby. Like last season, Tottenham scored first at the Emirates Stadium, with former Gunner Emmanuel Adebayor capitalising on some poor Arsenal defending to put the visitors in front. However, the match was soon turned on its head as Adebayor went from hero to villain. Shortly after giving his side the lead, the Togolese striker got himself deservedly sent off for a reckless challenge on Santi Cazorla, and Arsenal soon took total control. Per Mertesacker got forward to equalise with his first Arsenal goal – a fantastic header, and then the floodgates opened.
Arsenal found themselves 3-1 up and in control before half time, with further goals from Lukas Podolski and Olivier Giroud. Arsenal continued to dominate in the second half, going 4-1 up on the hour mark with Cazorla finishing a fine flowing move. A fine individual effort from Gareth Bale made it 4-2 and surprisingly nervy for the Gunners, as their defensive frailties were exposed. Spurs missed some good chances to make it a real contest, and eventually Theo Walcott put the game to bed in the final minute to make it 5-2, the same score as last season, and an equally breathtaking game.
This game owes everything to the very best and very worst of Luis Suarez. Before the game, interim Chelsea boss Rafael Benitez was given a warm reception by his old fans at Anfield. With Chelsea chasing a Champions League place, they scored a crucial first through Oscar, who headed home a corner in the 26th minute. The visitors led at the break, but seven minutes into the second half is when the game started to spark into life. Suarez played an exceptional first-time ball to Daniel Sturridge, who slotted home an equaliser against the side he left in January.
Just five minutes later, Suarez’s stupidity in his own box led to Chelsea getting a penalty after his needless hand ball. Eden Hazard coolly converted the spot kick and the Blues were in front again. Shortly afterwards, Suarez was again the centre of attention as he bizarrely bit Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic when the two were wrestling for the ball in the penalty area. Chelsea were furious as the referee seemed to miss the incident, and Suarez was very fortunate to avoid a red card. He then inflicted more misery on the visitors, as he stayed on to head home an equaliser for Liverpool in the very last attack of the game. Incredible drama at Anfield, albeit for the wrong reasons at times.
Newcastle are often on the wrong end of Premier League classics, and this is another perfect example. Alan Pardew’s side remarkably led three times at Old Trafford but went on to lose the game. Perch scored for the visitors after just four minutes, before Jonny Evans equalised for United. The very same player then put through his own net just three minutes later to give Newcastle the lead again. Patrice Evra equalised just before the hour mark, but Papiss Cisse scored a fine goal just ten minutes later to make it 3-2 to the Magpies. That lead lasted three minutes as Robin van Persie made it 3-3. As the game headed into stoppage time Newcastle looked at least like scraping a draw, before Javier Hernandez steered home a late winner for the home side. A good example of United’s dodgy defending on occasion this season, but also of their great attacking ability and willingness to fight til the end for results.
This was a game of exceptional technical quality, as the two sides put some wonderful attacking football on show at the Etihad Stadium. Edin Dzeko gave City the lead finishing off a neat move, before Daniel Sturridge fired home a low and powerful strike just six minutes later. In an even game, Steven Gerrard perhaps deservedly fired Liverpool ahead with a trademark dipping and swerving half volley from outside the box – a goal of the season candidate for sure from the Reds skipper. Again the lead did not last long as Sergio Aguero scored another excellent, but very different goal at the other end. The Argentine striker was forced wide by Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina, but that didn’t stop him from squeezing in an exquisite chip from the tightest of angles. This was great entertainment for the neutral, but it left Roberto Mancini’s side nine points behind leaders Manchester United.
This great comeback by Tottenham looked to be a big result that would help them towards the top four. Spurs were in the middle of a difficult patch, but took the lead at Upton Park through Gareth Bale. However, they were in trouble as Andy Carroll equalised from the spot in the 25th minute. Things got worse on 58 minutes as the Hammers’ new signing Joe Cole gave the home side the lead and looked to be condemning Spurs to another poor result. However, they were given hope with fifteen minutes to go, as Gylfi Sigurdsson stabbed home an equaliser for the visitors. Still, with time ticking away the game looked sure to be heading for a draw, before PFA Player of the Year Bale showed why he is one of the biggest talents in the world with a stunning long range strike to win the game in stoppage time. It was not the first or last time that Bale’s immense quality would decide a game this season, and this was one of his many goal-of-the-season contenders, a list he could occupy all by himself.
Despite the big scoreline, this was a close game for the most part, as Newcastle caused real problems for Arsenal at the Emirates, continuing to peg them back until a late flurry of goals from the Gunners. Theo Walcott was on fire that night, and opened the scoring on 20 minutes with a Thierry Henry-like goal. Demba Ba then equalised just before half time with a deflected free kick. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain scored a fine goal after the break to put the home side back in front, but this time the lead lasted only nine minutes as Sylvain Marveaux capitalised on some poor Arsenal defending to tap the ball home.
Five minutes later, it was 3-2 to Arsenal as Lukas Podolski headed in a scrappy goal on the line. Another five minutes passed before there was yet another goal from Newcastle, making it 3-3 with Demba Ba finishing a fine Newcastle move. This time just four minutes passed before Walcott scored his second of the night to make it 4-3. From this point on it was all Arsenal, as they ran riot with three goals in the last five minutes of the game. Substitute Olivier Giroud scored twice, one a fantastic diving header, and Walcott completed his hat trick with a solo run and cool chipped finish in stoppage time to give the game a crazy 7-3 scoreline.
Three goals in a crazy three minute spell decided the outcome of this game. Incredibly, Spurs found themselves 2-0 up at half time at a ground that they had not won at for 23 years. Jan Vertonghen scored a scrappy opener after just two minutes, before Gareth Bale scored a stunning second, running almost half the length of the pitch before slotting home with his right foot. United were in trouble, but you can never rule them out of getting a comeback, and it looked on when Nani stabbed home on 51 minutes. Then the comeback was off on 52 minutes when Clint Dempsey finished off another fine Spurs move. Then the comeback was on again on 53 minutes when Shinji Kagawa slid home for United. However, that was the end of the scoring and Spurs did well to hold on for a memorable result, ending their long Old Trafford hoodoo.
Another fine game of twists and turns involving Spurs. This early-season encounter was a thriller that ensured that this Premier League season would be as entertaining as the last. Gary Cahill gave Chelsea a half time lead, volleying home an excellent strike from a corner in the 17th minute. Spurs turned the game around at the start of the second half, with former Blues defender William Gallas making it 1-1 in the 47th minute, and Jermain Defoe firing home to give them a 2-1 lead in the 54th.
However, Chelsea showed great resilience and made a quick comeback of their own; Juan Mata equalised in the 66th minute and was the hero again just three minutes later as he scored a fine goal to make it 3-2 at White Hart Lane. Spurs pressed for a third, but were caught on the break late on as Daniel Sturridge tapped home to make it 4-2. This looked like an early example of Chelsea’s title credentials, taking them to the top of the league after a great start to the season.
Quite fittingly, Sir Alex Ferguson’s last game in charge was a thrilling high-scoring affair. However, the legendary boss will have been disappointed not to finish with a win, as his side roared into a 3-0 lead, scoring twice in the first ten minutes through Shinji Kagawa and a Jonas Olsson own goal. Alexander Buttner then finished a fine move with an emphatic finish to make it three after just half an hour, as United looked to be turning on the style in Ferguson’s final game. James Morrison pulled one back shortly before half time, though it didn’t look like having a major impact on the game. However, when Romelu Lukaku made it 3-2 on 50 minutes it was game on.
This seemed to spark United into life and they scored twice in ten minutes through Robin van Persie and Javier Hernandez to make it 5-2 and surely game over this time. However, the drama wasn’t over, as West Brom scored three goals in the last ten minutes. First Lukaku scored another to make it 5-3, Mulumbu made it 5-3, and Lukaku completed a fantastic hat trick in his last game for the club to make it 5-5. It was a deserved result for Steve Clarke’s side, who have performed above expectation for much of the season, and who provided great entertainment on the final day of the season, equaling Arsenal’s 7-3 win over Newcastle as the highest scoring match of the 2012/13 campaign.
Spurs boss impressed with Rose’s performances for Sunderland. Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas may still consider giving a first team place to left-back Danny Rose next season, after the youngster impr…
West Ham appear to have given up hope of keeping on-loan Liverpool striker Andy Carroll, and have made an approach for Sevilla’s Alvaro Negredo, according to the Daily Star.
The Hammers have been keen to land Carroll on a permanent basis beyond his loan spell this season, but it has been hinted by his team-mate Kevin Nolan that he would prefer to be playing European football.
The 24-year-old is also wanted by Newcastle and Monaco, and surely has no future at Anfield following some poor form since arriving at the club for £35million.
Nolan said: “Andy is a clever lad, he knows he has got to play football.
“If he gets offered a club in the Champions League or the Europa League, then he has got to make the decision.
“I know he has enjoyed his time here, you can see that on the pitch. He gets on well with all the lads, so we will see what happens.”
West Ham have been preparing other options in case they do not sign Carroll, and have apparently made an approach to Sevilla for striker Negredo, who has also been linked with Tottenham.
The 27-year-old has previously admitted an ambition to play in the Premier League, and came close to joining Everton in January. However, he seems likely to reject West Ham and wait for a better offer to come along.
The Hammers have also been linked with Peter Crouch of Stoke City, and a loan move for Chelsea youngster Romelu Lukaku.
So, dearest reader, here we are. The end of another season and for the second year on the spin May 19th goes down as a miserable day in the diary for those connected with Tottenham Hotspur Football Club. In any other context, in any other footballing universe, apart- rather inconveniently- from the one we find [...]
Monaco join chase for unsettled forward. Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts Big-spending Monaco could bid for Fulham’s Dimitar Berbatov this summer according to talkSPORT, as the Bulgarian seems to be looking for a move away from Craven Co…
Tottenham could allow a number of first team players to leave this summer as they plan to make wholesale changes to their squad. Emmanuel Adebayor, Clint Dempsey and Scott Parker are those who will be allowed to leave.
Pochettino confident of keeping star youngster. Check in to Osasuna vs Sevilla Southampton manager Mauricio Pochettino is confident that the club will be able to keep hold of star youngster Luke Shaw, according to the Daily Mirror. The Argentine coa…
Tottenham Hotspur manager Andre Villas-Boas has said that there is no chance of star man Gareth Bale leaving the club despite missing out on the Champions League and has insisted that the club’s future plans won’t be affected by missing out on qualifying for the competition, talkSPORT reports.
Spurs narrowly missed out on qualifying for Europe’s most elite club competition on the final day despite beating Sunderland 1-0 as Arsenal managed to pip them to the post by claiming their own single goal victory over Newcastle United.
And the Former Chelsea manager has insisted that the club’s ambitions will not be damaged by failing to qualify for the tournament and has highlighted the fact that this season has seen Spurs pick up more points in the Premier League than ever before.
“It’s disappointing and we can’t hide from that. We had expectations to go through but what we can learn is 72 points next time round might not be enough,” he said.
When asked about the future of Gareth Bale he said: ”I have told you this a hundred times and I have to say once again [he won't go]. This has been an ongoing question. We have to keep our ambitions high, hold on to our best players.
“For us to make it better in the future we have to hold on to the best.”
Tottenham’s prized asset Gareth Bale has given his North London side an ultimatum ahead of contract talks with his White Hart Lane employers.
The 23 year old has demanded a whopping £200k a week to stay at the club, who failed to secure a Champions League berth for next term.
Bale has three years to run on his current £110k a week deal but will look to secure a massive pay-rise to make up for the fact that he will once again have to do without Champions League football.
Daniel Levy is keen to avoid another lengthy transfer saga, similar to the one that saw Luka Modric push for a Tottenham exit for the best part of two years before he was finally sold to Real Madrid, however the Spurs chairman may find it hard to justify such a pay-rise.
Tottenham’s failure to secure a Champions League berth will have cost the club dear in terms of projected revenue targets and will also affect the level of player Andre Villas-Boas will be able to attract this summer.
Bale had a phenomenal season, scoring 20 Premier League goals and winning numerous accolades including both the PFA Player and Young Player of the Year awards.
Andre Villas-Boas has impressed this season, his debut as Tottenham manager, finishing on a record 72 points and taking Spurs to a Europa League quarter final. Spurs just missed out on Champions League qualification, finishing 1 point behind North Lond…
This has undoubtedly been Theo Walcott’s best season for Arsenal, with 14 goals and 10 assists in the league to help fire the Gunners to fourth place. He was really the in-form player in the country at the start of the season, with a number of man of the match displays against Tottenham and Newcastle earning him a new contract with the club.
19. Rickie Lambert (Southampton)
Along with Frank Lampard, Southampton striker Rickie Lambert is the joint top English goal scorer in the Premier League this season with 15 goals. However, the 31-year-old’s fine displays seem unlikely to earn himself an England call up, which is harsh considering his all-round impressive ability in the Saints’ passing and attack-minded game. Not bad at all considering it’s his first ever season in the top flight.
18. Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)
It’s hardly been a vintage season from Wayne Rooney, but the 27-year-old is still up there with the best players in the country, showing his quality to provide 12 goals and 10 assists for Manchester United. However, his time at Old Trafford may be up after the England star submitted a transfer request. United’s loss will be someone else’s gain, and the rush of clubs queuing up to sign him shows how valuable a player he can still be if used properly.
17. Romelu Lukaku (West Brom)
The Belgian striker has really impressed on loan at West Brom from Chelsea this season, scoring 17 league goals for the Baggies as they enjoyed an eighth place finish. The 20-year-old is certainly one of the best young players in the league, and deserves a chance at Stamford Bridge next season, though another spell on loan seems most likely. He bid farewell to the Hawthorns with a fantastic hat trick against Manchester United on the final day of the season.
16. Frank Lampard (Chelsea)
Despite his advancing years, Frank Lampard has shown his quality this season, particularly in the latter half of the campaign, scoring some crucial goals to take him to the top of the club’s all-time scoring charts and earn himself a much-deserved new contract. The 34-year-old has scored 15 times for the Blues and will still be around for at least one more year, which is bad news for the rest of the teams in the Premier League.
15. Simon Mignolet (Sunderland)
Despite Sunderland’s poor season, Belgian goalkeeper Simon Mignolet has been a real stand-out performer for the Black Cats and arguably the best ‘keeper in the Premier League this season. His eye-catching saves have caught the attention of the likes of Arsenal and Napoli, who are both keen to sign new goalkeepers this summer. He has helped keep Sunderland from dropping down to the Championship, but his strong displays will surely mean he leaves the club for bigger things in the transfer window.
14. Eden Hazard (Chelsea)
One of many talented Belgians in the Premier League at the moment, Eden Hazard was an exciting arrival to Chelsea last summer when he joined for £27million from French side Lille. The 22-year-old settled immediately, getting off to a flier with one goal and five assists in Chelsea’s opening three games. He has finished the season with 9 goals and 11 assists in the league, and was a deserved nominee for PFA Player of the Year, and he certainly looks like he could be a future winner of the award, as well as of plenty of silverware with the Blues.
13. Jan Vertonghen (Tottenham)
Four goals and three assists is a great return from Tottenham’s Jan Vertonghen, who has established himself as one of the best defenders in the country in only his first season with the club since joining from Ajax in the summer. The 26-year-old has slotted into English football perfectly and looks like being a key player for Spurs for years to come.
12. Leighton Baines (Everton)
Baines has been one of the best defenders in the country for many years now, breathing down the neck of Ashley Cole for his place in the England team, and this may be his best season to date. The attacking left-back has been a stand-out performer for Everton, causing all kinds of problems for opposition teams with his marauding forward runs, long range shots and deliveries from crosses and set pieces. The 28-year-old may even have earned himself a summer move to Manchester United, as manager David Moyes will be understandably keen to take one of his best players from Everton with him when he takes over at Old Trafford.
11. Rafael Da Silva (Manchester United)
Another defender who has had an excellent season and is deserving of some recognition is Manchester United right-back Rafael Da Silva. The 22-year-old struggled with inconsistency in his earlier years with the club but is now developing into a great talent. The Brazilian is now more reliable in defence, and providing more end product upfront as well, contributing 3 goals and 3 assists this season. Two of his goals were absolute stunners as well, one against Liverpool at Anfield, and one at Queens Park Rangers. Rafael can consider himself unlucky not to be a PFA Player of the Year candidate this season.
10. Michael Carrick (Manchester United)
The Manchester United midfielder was a surprise name for some among the PFA Player of the Year candidates, but the midfield metronome played a crucial part in United’s title win this season with his solid but unspectacular role in Sir Alex Ferguson’s midfield. The 31-year-old could now find himself back in the England team as he has shown himself to be an important player in one of the best teams in Europe. His passing ability is envied by many of his English colleagues, and he sticks to his job well, allowing other players to shine.
9. Marouane Fellaini (Everton)
The commanding Belgian midfielder played a slightly more attacking role for Everton this season, and opened his campaign with a superb individual performance against Manchester United, scoring the winning goal and terrorizing their back line throughout. This would go on to set the tone for his season, which he finished with 11 goals and 5 assists – not bad for a converted defensive midfielder. The 25-year-old has certainly been a stand-out performer for the Toffees alongside Leighton Baines and is another player said to be on David Moyes’ wish list when he leaves the club to take over at Manchester United next season. Arsenal and Chelsea are also keen on him, and it would be no surprise to see a number of clubs looking to activate his minimum release fee clause of around £25million.
8. Steven Gerrard (Liverpool)
The 32-year-old has shown that he’s still got it this season, with some memorable performances for Liverpool. Gerrard has shone in Brendan Rodgers’ new setup at the club, contributing 9 goals and 9 assists and showing himself to still be the leader and inspiration for this team. His fantastic dipping half volley away at Manchester City is certainly a contender for goal of the season, as he has confirmed he remains one of the best players in the country.
7. Christian Benteke (Aston Villa)
Behind big names like Robin van Persie, Luis Suarez and Gareth Bale in this season’s Premier League goalscoring charts is Aston Villa’s Christian Benteke. The young Belgian was virtually unheard of before this season, but now looks like one of the signings of the summer, slotting in seamlessly to Premier League life, scoring 19 goals and providing 4 assists. The strong and skillful forward has been a real handful for defences up and down the country and will no doubt earn a move to a bigger club this summer, as much as Villa will want to keep him. Still, they will surely make a very healthy profit on the £7million they spent to sign him from Genk, as he will now be worth around £20million or more as the likes of Arsenal, Tottenham and Borussia Dortmund pursue his signature.
6. Santi Cazorla (Arsenal)
An excellent debut season for the talented Spaniard signed by Arsenal from Malaga in the summer. The 28-year-old quickly established himself as the heart of the Arsenal team, showing great skill and creativity from a variety of attacking midfield positions. His 12 goals and 11 assists make him one of the stand-out performers this season, and have helped the Gunners to a crucial fourth place finish.
5. Juan Mata (Chelsea)
His first season was good, and his second was even better. Juan Mata is really showing himself to be one of the best players in the Premier League and perhaps the world with his incredible contribution of goals and assists from midfield. The 25-year-old lit up the league this season particularly in the early stages of the campaign when Chelsea looked like favourites for the title, and was another richly deserved Chelsea representative on the list of nominations for the PFA Player of the Year award. The former Valencia man finished with 12 goals and 12 assists in the league, and is a joy to watch week in, week out.
4. Michu (Swansea City)
An incredible piece of business by Swansea manager Michael Laudrup, Michu has been a revelation in the Premier League this season, scoring 18 goals and providing 2 assists after arriving from Rayo Vallecano for just £2million in the summer. The talented forward has scored a variety of goals for the Swans, including a famous double late on to seal a memorable win at the Emirates Stadium against Arsenal. This bargain buy has now caught the attention of a number of bigger clubs and could move for a very healthy profit in this summer’s transfer window, after showing himself to be one of the most accomplished finishers in the country. A call up to the Spanish national team surely beckons as well for the 27-year-old.
3. Luis Suarez (Liverpool)
Second only to Robin van Persie in the scoring charts, Luis Suarez has had a fantastic season for Liverpool this year, and would surely have scored even more if not for his suspension meaning he missed the final few games of the campaign. Unfortunately for him, his controversial bite on Chelsea’s Branislav Ivanovic has taken some of the gloss off a memorable season for the talented Uruguayan, who has shown tremendous ability in not only the quantity, but the quality of his goals. One of the most entertaining attackers in the league, without a doubt, and hopefully one who can improve next season and put aside his behavioural problems. Juventus and Bayern Munich are now being linked with him, and the Reds will probably have to get used to increased interest in their star player.
2. Robin van Persie (Manchester United)
A few eyebrows were raised when Robin van Persie made the controversial move from Arsenal to rivals Manchester United, not least by many United fans who questioned his injury record and whether he may have been something of a one-season wonder last term. However, the Dutchman has proved a fantastic signing and has topped the Premier League’s goalscoring charts for the second season in a row with his new club. A hat trick of the highest quality sealed his side’s title triumph against Aston Villa, and he has shown himself to be one of the best goal scorers in the game, looking unstoppable from a variety of angles with his powerful and deadly left foot.
1. Gareth Bale (Tottenham)
What a year it’s been for Gareth Bale. The Welsh winger now often occupies a more central role in Andre Villas-Boas’ new-look side, and this has proved a masterstroke by the Portuguese manager. Bale has scored 21 goals and provided 4 assists in this new position, and looks better with every passing game as he makes fools out of opposition defenders with his pace and dribbling skills. The 23-year-old could have a goal of the season list all to himself, and ended the campaign with another long range stunner against Sunderland, though it cruelly did not secure Champions League qualification for Spurs. Real Madrid are said to be chasing him this summer, and could offer as much as £65million for the Premier League’s best player, as voted for by his peers and by the football writers.
Southampton are rumoured to be lining up a £5million bid for Liverpool’s Jose Enrique, as they prepare for a summer exit from the club of in-demand youngster Luke Shaw.
The 17-year-old left-back has been a revelation for the Saints this season, establishing himself as one of England’s most promising young players with his displays at St Mary’s, and attracting strong interest from Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham.
The London trio are expected to bid for the youngster, who is the latest exciting young talent to come through the ranks of Southampton’s famous youth academy, following in the footsteps of the likes of Gareth Bale, Theo Waclott and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
Liverpool are not currently in for him, but are looking for a new left-back this summer, having already found themselves linked with Tottenham’s Danny Rose, who is also wanted on a permanent deal by Sunderland where he has just completed a season on loan, as well as highly rated Toulouse defender Aymen Abdennour.
This apparently suggests that Enrique is not in Brendan Rodgers’ first team plans next season, and could be available if the right offers come in for the former Newcastle man.
Southampton manager Mauricio Pochettino is keen to strengthen his squad next season, particular if star player Shaw leaves, and is said to be looking at several players from La Liga, where he has previously managed with Espanyol. However, his liking of Spanish players could also see him move for the Premier League-based Enrique.
The 27-year-old is an experienced defender, capable at the back as well as going forward and could certainly be a good signing for Southampton as they look to establish themselves in their second season since winning promotion to the Premier League.
Sadly, they are used to losing their best young players like Shaw, who will likely choose a move to Chelsea after admitting he is a boyhood Blues fan, though he may also fancy his chances of more first team football at Tottenham, who are looking for a left-back to replace Danny Rose and Benoit Assou-Ekotto, who are both likely to be sold.
Shaw would have to work his way past Ashley Cole at Stamford Bridge, which is no easy job even for a player of his ability, and the club don’t have a great recent record of handing opportunities to young players.
Andre Villas-Boas has made his and the Tottenham board’s intentions clear regarding Gareth Bale and the importance of keeping him at the club. Tottenham must keep Gareth Bale: this is not only the call from the manager but is also the general public consensus if Tottenham are to take the next step into the Champions [...]
Brilliant goals, best-forgotten predictions and matches that prompted dramatic late rewrites
Best player
Paul Doyle Luis Suárez. His dazzling turns, incessant mischief-making and much-improved finishing made him a joy to watch.
Dominic Fifield Juan Mata. Of those I watched regularly, he was the most consistently excellent, with his astonishing tally of 12 assists and 12 league goals testament to his impact at Chelsea throughout another tumultuous campaign.
Owen Gibson Hard to see beyond Gareth Bale. Not since Cristiano Ronaldo was in his pomp at Manchester United has a player demonstrated such an ability to seize a game and shape it.
Barry Glendenning A stunningly original choice here: Tottenham game-changer Gareth Bale.
Andy Hunter Robin van Persie. Signed to wrestle the title back from the wealthiest team (though not much of a team) on the planet and delivered under that pressure by February.
David Hytner Dimitar Berbatov. The best player to watch and the best player to write about.
Jamie Jackson Gareth Bale. The Welsh flyer has become the Premier League’s successor to Cristiano Ronaldo as the man who consistently scores and performs superbly.
Stuart James Gareth Bale. Just gets better and better. Almost single-handedly carried the Tottenham team and deserves to be playing Champions League football next season.
Scott Murray A toss-up between Christian Benteke and Adam Le Fondre. Hats off to your Van Persies, Bales and Suárezes (Suari?) but there’s something infinitely more romantic about those calmly pelting them in while all around is panic.
Sachin Nakrani Dimitar Berbatov. A left-field choice but then Berba is a left-field player. Languid, highly-skilled, hilariously ratty and the only man who would dare wear a “Keep calm and pass me the ball” T-shirt. Oh and he got 15 goals in his debut season with Fulham, which ain’t bad.
James Riach Gareth Bale repeatedly scored stunning, match-winning goals and spearheaded Tottenham to their biggest ever Premier League points total.
Barney Ronay Michael Carrick. Often did the job of two men in midfield for the champions. The Roy Keane of the elegant interception.
Jacob Steinberg It feels utterly ridiculous not to be picking Robin van Persie. But that’s Gareth Bale – utterly ridiculous. The quality of his goals and performances for Tottenham have been staggering.
Daniel Taylor Gareth Bale, with an honorary mention for Michu (clearly not playing for a big enough club to get many PFA votes) and Robin van Persie.
Louise Taylor Philippe Coutinho. Arsenal’s Santi Cazorla has been lovely to watch but Coutinho is the midfielder capable of making Liverpool great again.
Paul Wilson Luis Suárez. More watchable and audacious than Robin van Persie or Gareth Bale, if also more annoying and apparently more hungry.
WINNER Gareth Bale.
Best manager
Paul Doyle Michael Laudrup. Took a successful Swansea side and made them even better through smart signings and more effective attacking.
Dominic Fifield David Moyes. Everton finished sixth, above their city rivals for a second successive season, and lost only once at Goodison Park all campaign. Their squad boasts quality but not much depth, so to sustain such a challenge while others spend so heavily felt miraculous. Moyes has earned his opportunity with Manchester United.
Owen Gibson Sir Alex Ferguson. Fittingly in his final season, he marshalled his resources one last time following the bitter disappointment of the last day in 2011-12 to ease to the title.
Barry Glendenning Michael Laudrup. Prior to the start of the season, I idiotically predicted that Swansea City under his management would resemble “a car crash”.
Andy Hunter Sir Alex Ferguson. Another league title lifted by the latest Manchester United team to be spurred on by talent, naturally, but also character. A huge loss to the game.
David Hytner Rafael Benítez. Could not have done much more than win the Europa League and finish third. Moreover, he maintained his dignity at all times in the face of sustained hostility.
Jamie Jackson Michael Laudrup. As a first season in the top flight claiming the first major trophy of Swansea City’s 101-year history and finishing ninth was impressive.
Stuart James Michael Laudrup. There was a feeling Swansea were punching above their weight under Brendan Rodgers. Then Laudrup took over and won the first major trophy in the club’s history and secured a top-10 finish in the Premier League. Oh, and he also traded at a profit in the transfer market. Not bad, all in all.
Scott Murray Rafael Benítez, only the second man to win a European trophy at three different clubs (after Udo Lattek). The snipers – and it’s not just been Chelsea fans, either – can simmer down now.
Sachin Nakrani Michael Laudrup. Had the tough task of replacing Brendan Rodgers and did so with aplomb. Swansea finished two places higher than they did in 2011-12 and have become a more dangerous attacking unit.
James Riach In the face of bitter protests from Chelsea’s supporters, Rafael Benítez remained dignified and won the Europa League title as well as securing third place.
Barney Ronay Rafa Benítez. Perhaps not the obvious choice but still: a European trophy and third place in the Premier League. And all without the full support of the club’s fans or – it would seem – board.
Jacob Steinberg Michael Laudrup won Swansea their first major trophy in his first season in England, made some shrewd signings and ensured their football remained easy on the eye.
Daniel Taylor Steve Clarke. Well, probably Sir Alex Ferguson. But I owe Clarke an apology for having him to win the sack race last August.
Louise Taylor Paolo Di Canio. Not content with saving Sunderland from relegation he speaks a lot of good sense. And makes the Premier League infinitely more colourful.
Paul Wilson David Moyes. After years of not winning anything, he walks off with the top prize. Tremendous first seasons from Steve Clarke and Michael Laudrup, solid progress by Sam Allardyce and Brendan Rodgers.
Owen Gibson Van Persie v Aston Villa. Wayne Rooney’s raking 70-yard pass and the Dutchman’s skill in watching the ball drop on to his boot before volleying home was a fitting way for United to clinch the title.
Barry Glendenning Luis Suárez for Liverpool against Newcastle. Sprinting at full speed, he controlled a long ball to the edge of the penalty area with his shoulder while under pressure from Fabricio Coloccini, before taking it around Tim Krul and prodding home. In little more than a couple of seconds and with just three touches he made two very good players look like chumps.
Andy HunterRobin van Persie v Aston Villa. From the pass by Wayne Rooney to the movement, awareness and sublime technique of Van Persie’s volley; a glorious goal and a true jaw-dropping moment.
David Hytner Luis Suárez v Newcastle Utd. Speed, strength, sumptuous chest control, balance, feint, touch, finish. Genius.
Jamie Jackson Robin van Persie’s second v Aston Villa. Wayne Rooney’s sublime arcing pass placed into the path of the on-rushing Dutchman was complemented by a left-foot volley struck oh so sweetly in a game that sealed Manchester United’s 20th championship.
Stuart James A close call between Matthew Lowton’s wonderful volley for Aston Villa against Stoke and Robin van Persie’s brilliant strike against Villa. Van Persie gets the nod on the basis that he was hitting a ball dropping over his shoulder.
Sachin Nakrani Matthew Lowton against Stoke. A stunning chest-and-first-time-hit volley that ultimately won a important game for Villa, lifting them out of the relegation zone.
James Riach Robin van Persie’s fine volley against Aston Villa oozed quality. He timed his run perfectly and made the finish look ridiculously easy.
Barney RonayRomelu Lukaku versus Sunderland. Essentially a series of high-speed crash tackles, but still a rare joy to watch. The kind of goal the Hulk would score. Or a runaway cement mixer.
Jacob Steinberg I didn’t think Bale’s stabbed finish against Swansea in March really got the recognition it deserved. It was Messi-esque in its speed and inventiveness.
Daniel Taylor Luis Suárez v Newcastle. It’s the control, running, looking over his shoulder, then trapping a 40-yard pass on his chest and shimmying past Newcastle’s goalkeeper. The finish was simple; what preceded it was sublime.
Louise TaylorFernando Torres in Chelsea’s 3-1 win at Sunderland. Torres met Eden Hazard’s cross with a perfectly cushioned volley expertly directed beyond Simon Mignolet. Not bad for a striker supposedly “finished”.
Paul Wilson Van Persie’s volley from Wayne Rooney’s sumptuous pass against Aston Villa. Otherwise anything from the Bale collection.
WINNER Robin van Persie v Aston Villa.
Best match
Paul Doyle Southampton 3-1 Man City. It is always good to see hungry young slicksters batter a team of glamorous slackers.
Dominic FifieldChelsea 2-3 Manchester United in October, a game that saw the hosts reduced to nine, retrieve a two-goal deficit, then succumb to an offside winner. It was subsequently tainted with controversy after allegations were made against Mark Clattenburg by home players. Just as significantly, it proved to be the beginning of the end for Roberto Di Matteo.
Owen GibsonManchester City 2-3 Manchester United. Just as the previous year had been defined by City’s 6-1 humbling of their neighbours, so Van Persie’s last-gasp winner seemed to symbolise this season’s revenge.
Barry Glendenning Reading 3-2 West Brom will live long in my memory. I was reporting on it and three Reading goals in the final eight minutes meant a panic-stricken rewrite. It was great fun, mind.
Andy Hunter Selecting only from games attended, Liverpool 2-2 Chelsea. The Benítez sub-plot, a commanding Chelsea display, a rousing Liverpool recovery and, of course, the best and ridiculous worst of Luis Suárez. The moment it dawned he had bitten Branislav Ivanovic, and that a week of inquests and accusations of a media witch-hunt was sure to follow, was not a highlight, however.
David Hytner Chelsea 2-3 Manchester United. Great goals, a stirring fightback, red cards, contention, pulsating from start to finish. The subsequent, unproven allegations about Mark Clattenburg ought not to overshadow the memory.
Jamie Jackson Manchester City 2-3 Manchester United. In the closing moments Van Persie’s free-kick deflected off Samir Nasri, who had turned his back, to beat Joe Hart and all three points were heading to Old Trafford.
Scott Murray West Bromwich Albion 5-5 Manchester United, the nearest football’s ever got to DG Bradman, b Hollies, 0. Sport always has the last word, leaving even the geniuses wondering exactly what the hell just happened.
Sachin Nakrani Manchester City 2-3 Manchester United. Not a title decider but the moment it felt power had shifted back across Manchester. A pretty dramatic contest, too.
James RiachNewcastle United 0-3 Sunderland. This was the turning point in Sunderland’s survival bid, a gutsy performance that included three excellent goals and some incredible celebrations from Paolo Di Canio.
Barney Ronay Manchester City 2-3 Manchester United. Decided which way the seasonal Manchester momentum was heading – plus a lovely bit of soap opera in Van Persie’s free-kick and Nasri’s flinch.
Jacob Steinberg A personal highlight was West Ham’s comeback against Chelsea in December. Chelsea murdered West Ham in the first half and should have been two or three goals up at half-time. But the introduction of Mohamed Diamé changed the game and Upton Park was a very loud and enjoyable place to be by the time Modibo Maïga made it 3-1 to West Ham.
Daniel TaylorSouthampton 2-3 Manchester United. The kind of match for which Sir Alex Ferguson will be remembered: losing 2-1 until the last three minutes and then a quick one-two from Robin van Persie and some frantic rewrites in the press box.
Louise TaylorNewcastle United 3-2 Chelsea. A fantastic game filled with fabulous counter-attacking football and settled by Moussa Sissoko’s 90th-minute winner for Newcastle.
Paul Wilson Newcastle 3-2 Chelsea was a real humdinger, the one where Demba Ba took a boot to the face and got his nose splattered.
WINNER Manchester City 2-3 Manchester United.
Best signing
Paul Doyle Christian Benteke – £7m for the young striker who kept Aston Villa in the Premier League in his first season in England. A bargain.
Dominic Fifield Robin van Persie. Michu was the bargain of the season, but Van Persie ensured Manchester United eclipsed Manchester City in the title race. A player who made a difference.
Owen Gibson The still improving Christian Benteke narrowly edges Van Persie for value. He scored on his debut and didn’t stop, keeping Villa up despite his misfiring colleagues.
Barry Glendenning Michu’s transfer to Swansea City from Real Vallecano for £2.2m was an astonishing, astute bit of business … for Swansea.
Andy Hunter Michu. His form may have tailed off after the Capital One Cup final but Swansea are unlikely to hold that against him. A steal at £2m, he epitomised the style and class of Michael Laudrup’s team and the club’s historic cup win in their centenary year.
David Hytner Robin Van Persie. Took the No20 shirt at Manchester United. Made the difference in the club’s 20th title.
Jamie Jackson Van Persie. “If” is a questionable concept in sport but had the Dutchman signed instead for City would United be champions?
Stuart James Michu was an absolute bargain at £2m but Christian Benteke was also an incredible piece of business. Without Benteke’s goals (of every description) Villa would surely have been relegated.
Scott Murray Philippe Coutinho. A pocket Molby, or a Beardsley-sized Beardsley?
Sachin Nakrani Michu. Strikers who score 18 goals in their debut season for a new club in a new country are not meant to cost £2m. An incredible piece of business.
James Riach Michu is the clear choice after scoring 18 goals for Swansea City at a cost of £2m from Rayo Vallecano. An absolute bargain.
Barney Ronay Christian Benteke. A £7m signing who kept Villa up and will now probably leave for much more. In short bursts looked like the perfect centre-forward in the making.
Jacob Steinberg Swansea paid £2m Michu and got more than their money’s worth.
Daniel Taylor Michu, and if we can ignore Steve Clarke (see above) I did predict this last August.
Louise Taylor Robin van Persie. He did not come cheap but, by their standards, an arguably limited, non-vintage, Manchester United would not have won the title without the Dutch striker.
Paul Wilson Has to be Van Persie, if he really made the difference between United and City.
WINNER Michu.
Worst flop
Paul Doyle Roberto Mancini. There are professors who got PhDs from a slot machine in Blackpool who could mount better defences of their title than Manchester City managed.
Dominic Fifield Alou Diarra at West Ham, if only because I suggested back in August that he would prove to be the bargain of the campaign. He may have been free but he arrived an experienced France international, the kind of player who could take the Premier League by the scruff of the neck, but five appearances in all competitions and a loan to Rennes rather sums up his impact. Then came the allegations that he had been lured to Upton Park by “false promises”.
Owen Gibson It seems unfair to single him out amid myriad overpaid failures at Loftus Road. But at £12.5m and £100,000 a week, Christopher Samba’s admission that he wasn’t prepared for the Premier League when he arrived in January couldn’t help but grate as Queens Park Rangers went down with a whimper.
Barry Glendenning Considering the high standards he set for himself last season, the decline of Newcastle midfielder Cheick Tioté has been particularly notable.
Andy Hunter Queens Park Rangers. Every signing made last summer and in January and their two managers, Mark Hughes and Harry Redknapp. Abysmal.
David Hytner José Bosingwa. A European champion with Chelsea last May, he was tempted to QPR by the big wages and did little to justify them. Refused to take his place as a substitute against Fulham. Jeered by fans on his last appearance against Newcastle.
Jamie Jackson Chelsea fans who failed to back Rafael Benítez. What, exactly, did the Blues supporters want by not getting behind the manager? Failure? Having returned the Europa League and third place Benítez has shown the kind of manager he is.
Stuart James Hard to look beyond the Queens Park Rangers team, headed up by José Bosingwa. Probably won’t happen but would be great to see him running out at Yeovil.
Scott Murray David Moyes and Everton, after yet another craven capitulation in the Cup. Roberto Martínez and Wigan showed them how to play the glory game.
Sachin Nakrani Christopher Samba. The personification of QPR’s ill-thought-out, irresponsible and bloated transfer strategy.
James Riach Chris Samba arrived at QPR in January for a club record £12.5m. Having not played since November, the centre-half was in poor shape and has admitted he was unprepared for a Premier League return.
Barney Ronay Emmanuel Adebayor. Came to life a little towards the end of the season, but it took until May for Spurs to win their second match in which he actually scored.
Jacob Steinberg It has not quite worked out for Scott Sinclair, has it?
Daniel Taylor Queens Park Rangers, the A to Z of how not to run a coherent football club.
Louise Taylor James McClean, Sunderland. The once so promising left winger regressed alarmingly. Desperately requires the “revolution in the brain” prescribed by Paolo Di Canio.
Paul Wilson Not blaming Harry Redknapp in particular, but everyone involved at QPR must view the season as a bit of a fiasco. Wigan’s defence coach, if they actually had one, also had a season to forget.
WINNER Queens Park Rangers (particularly Christopher Samba and José Bosingwa).
Biggest gripe
Paul Doyle Lack of innovation at set-pieces: most are very predictable. Players are getting their priorities wrong when they put more thought into their goalscoring celebrations than how to actually score in the first place.
Dominic Fifield The mess that was Queens Park Rangers. Their survival last season had been celebrated but what followed was pathetic. Their stay in the top flight was a missed opportunity.
Owen Gibson Hardly original, but in a season when low level grumbling about ticket prices became loud protests, the urgency of more clubs addressing the issue can’t be overstated.
Barry Glendenning The paranoia and seething rage of some fans is tedious. Relax, it’s just football.
Andy Hunter Extortionate ticket prices that have turned some football stadiums into tourist destinations and homes for a precious, middle-aged, middle-class audience.
David Hytner Sky sources. Just because the TV channel invented the game does not give them the licence seemingly to take other outlets’ stories and information and present them as their own.
Jamie Jackson Prominent footballers who shun the media when playing, then take up jobs in the media on retirement.
Stuart James The ruthless sackings of Brian McDermott at Reading and Nigel Adkins at Southampton. Both victims of their own success.
Scott Murray Faux moral outrage, 25 hours a day, eight days a week. Life’s too short to be this annoyed.
Sachin Nakrani The FA’s disciplinary decisions. A four-match ban for racism (John Terry), a 10-match ban for biting (Luis Suárez) and no ban at all for nearly snapping someone’s leg (Callum Mcmanaman). Madness.
James Riach Giving players a voice by reporting their nonsensical comments on Twitter, particularly one converted Francophile.
Barney Ronay Get rid of the “the ref saw it so we can’t do anything” law – thereby destroying at a single stroke the gist of roughly 50% of all angry football talk radio content.
Jacob Steinberg The FA Cup final (with Budweiser; mustn’t forget the sponsors) was great entertainment but it still shouldn’t kick off at 5.15pm or be played on the same weekend as league games.
Daniel Taylor 1) goal music, 2) Brendan Rodgers never told us who were in the envelopes.
Louise Taylor Those Chelsea fans who persistently undermined Rafael Benítez and demanded his dismissal after he, quite reasonably, gave them a measured ticking off following an FA Cup win at Middlesbrough. Benítez performed splendidly; is José Mourinho really going to do better?
Paul Wilson The Premier League is tilting towards the south, even south Wales. From a position of strength a few years ago, there are only the four core north-west clubs left. Lancashire is becoming an outpost, rather than a sensible location for a football writer to base themselves.
WINNER The FA’s disciplinary process.
Change for next season
Paul Doyle Play-offs for last Champions League spot and last relegation spot. There is an obvious antidote to anti-climaxes, as followers of the Championship, League One and League Two know full well. And why should the lower leagues have better endings than the top flight?
Dominic Fifield Transfer windows for managerial changes. Chelsea can have their own one, if necessary, in late February/early March. November is far too early.
Owen Gibson They have more need than most, but it would be nice to see others follow Arsenal’s lead in introducing special cut-price areas for teenagers.
Barry Glendenning Cheaper ticket prices would be nice.
Andy Hunter Same as last season: retrospective punishment for diving.
David Hytner Sir Alex Ferguson to hold regular press conferences in his new role as a Manchester United director.
Jamie Jackson Cameras in changing rooms, please.
Stuart James That the Manchester United manager attends post-match press conferences.
Scott Murray Pitchside bats, for smashing goalline cameras into pieces so small they can be sieved through a sock. Perfection is a pipe dream and, anyway, bemoaning the occasional incorrect decision is all part of the fun.
Sachin Nakrani £20 away tickets. In January the Football Supporters’ Federation launched its “Twenty’s Plenty for Away Tickets” campaign in a bid to establish an across-the-board, affordable pricing structure for travelling fans. Its introduction would show football at the highest level retains a soul.
James Riach Retrospective punishment even if a match official has seen the incident during the game. Some blatant and ugly fouls have escaped proper scrutiny this season.
Barney Ronay Relegate five teams.
Jacob Steinberg It is understandable that the FA doesn’t want to undermine referees but it is slightly farcical that retrospective action can’t be taken over incidents – Callum McManaman’s tackle on Massadio Haïdara, say – which the officials decided not to punish during games.
Daniel Taylor Maybe the Premier League, with its £5.5bn television revenue, could give Kick It Out more than £100,000 a year operating costs (roughly the same as someone who earns £50,000 a year chucking 25p into a collection tin).
Louise Taylor Journalists reporting on Premier League teams being invited, as happens at certain European clubs, to eat training ground lunches with players as part of an obligatory extension of current weekly press conferences. With increased trust unlikely to be abused it could only erase paranoia, increase understanding and enhance coverage.
Paul Wilson Players attending finals in a suit should be made to stay in a suit, and frisked if necessary to make sure they are not carrying spare kit, boots and shin-pads.
It’s end of season poll time. Each week we will invite our readers to vote in a poll that will help us to produce a Premier League Best XI of 2012/13. Today is the turn of the creative and attacking midfielders. Steven Gerrard (Liverpool) Vete…
The London Evening Standard claims that Tottenham will be handed the boost of Gareth Bale signing a new contract with the club.
The 23-year-old has been in sensational form for the North London club this season, and finished the campaign with a wonderful solo strike against Sunderland yesterday, though it wasn’t enough to secure Champions League football at White Hart Lane next year.
It was thought that Bale would be tempted by a move away from the club to be playing at the top level in Europe, with Real Madrid and Manchester United both said to be chasing the Welshman.
However, it now seems that the former Southampton man will stick it out with Tottenham at least for the time being, putting pen to paper on a new bumper contract worth £130,000 a week.
This will come as good news for manager Andre Villas-Boas, who will want to keep his best player in a bid to challenge for the top four again next season, and made keeping Bale a priority over any other signings in this summer’s transfer window.
Real Madrid and United will now turn their attentions elsewhere as they look to add quality attacking players to their lineups next season.
Tottenham Hotspur defender Michael Dawson has admitted that he would like to extend his contract with the club to stay in north London for the foreseeable future, Sky Sports reports.
The 29-year-old almost left the club last summer after Andre Villas-Boas was set to let the defender leave, accepting a £9 million bid from cross city rivals QPR, however, Dawson turned the move down and instead set about reestablishing himself in the Spurs side and enjoying a fine season.
Spurs narrowly missed out on Champions League qualification this season but the England international captained the side for most of his 33 appearances this term following the retirement of Ledley King and he has admitted that he would like to stay at the club beyond the end of his current deal.
“I’ve got two years left and I’d love to extend that,” Dawson said.
“Hopefully if the manager and the chairman want me for that long, it would be great.”
“I never gave leaving Spurs a thought last summer, having been here for eight years.”
Dawson joined Spurs from Nottingham Forest in 2005 and has gone on to make over 250 appearances for the club during his time there.
Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers is keeping an eye of Tottenham’s Danny Rose according to The Daily Mail.
The England Under 21 star has been spent the last season out on loan with Sunderland where he has put in a number of highly impressive performances.
Black Cats boss Paolo Di Canio is keen to hold onto Rose but it is thought that the club would be unable to afford the asking price Tottenham would be looking for.
That could pave the way for Rose to move to Liverpool. Anfield boss Brendan Rodgers is keen to strengthen his squad over the coming months but knows he is somewhat hampered by budgetary constraints.
Despite having previously stated that he hopes to bring in around three or four players this summer, Liverpool officials have informed Rodgers he will have just £20 million to spend over the coming months.
The former Swansea boss is struggling to make that stretch and may well decide to cash in on the likes of Andy Carroll, Jose Enrique and Pepe Reina.
Should Rose arrive at Anfield, that could well put the brakes on any move for Blackpool starlet Tom Ince, who was strongly linked with the club during the January transfer window.
The Mackems boss believes the north London side need to hold onto PFA Player of the Year and add another goalscorer with their rivals set to reinforce this summer
A round-up of Monday’s biggest transfer rumours and gossip. Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts Andre Villas-Boas will look to strengthen his midfield this summer with the signing of Joao Moutinho from Porto, who is also a target for Monaco…
A frenzy of tears, salutes and send-offs have marked the finale of the campaign of goodbyes as the Premier League draws a line under its first defining generation
Tottenham are ready to make another move for Porto’s Joao Moutinho according to The Sun.
The White Hart Lane club are already preparing for next season, fresh from yesterday’s heart break.
Tottenham ended up losing out in the race for a Champions League spot as while they managed to beat Sunderland, Arsenal’s one nil victory over Newcastle was enough to provide the Gunners with a one point cushion over their North London rivals.
Spurs boss Andre Villas-Boas is determined not to dwell on the outcome and is looking to make a statement of intent by bringing in some high profile signings early on in the summer transfer window.
Part of the Tottenham boss’ thinking is that by doing so, he can show Gareth Bale the club’s ambitions in the hopes of persuading the player to stay.
That will see the club make a £30 million move for Moutinho, the player they unsuccessfully tried to sign last summer.
Moutinho is seen as the perfect player to provide some creative spark in the middle of the Tottenham midfield.
Big spending Monaco are also thought to be waiting in the wings and will make their move should talks between Spurs and Porto break down.
And all because of Alan Sugar… Check in to Transfer Window: Done Deal Alerts The video below records the moment a relatively large portion of White Hart Lane believed that Newcastle United had done Tottenham a massive favour and leveled against A…
Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas admits he is a big fan of Barcelona striker David Villa, and says he tried to sign him when he was manager of Chelsea, according to London 24.
The Spaniard is widely tipped to be leaving Barca this summer due to falling down the pecking order at the club, but his reputation as a world class finisher means he still has many admirers in the game.
Arsenal and Liverpool have been linked with the 31-year-old in recent months, with the Gunners in particular close to signing him in the January transfer window, but Spurs now seem in the driving seat to bring Villa to the Premier League this summer.
The club have been strongly rumoured to land the former Valencia man for around £12million, and Villas-Boas has not done much to play down these stories, praising the player and talking of his previous attempts to sign him.
“I think he’s a world-renowned striker,” he said.
“His tally of goals in Valencia was impressive. When he got to Barcelona he played off the channels because (Lionel) Messi started going through the middle, but he still had a good record of goals in his first season, until he broke his leg.
“I always had a good relationship with him. I tried to sign him for Chelsea. I think he would make an impact on English football, yes.”
Spurs are on the lookout for new strikers this summer due to the poor form of current strike partnership Emmanuel Adebayor and Jermain Defoe.
The Spurs boss is confident Europa League football will be enough to keep Gareth Bale as he prepares to bolster his squad this summer for a renewed pursuit of the top four
The Portuguese believes that his side are still capable of landing their summer targets despite missing out on Champions League qualification to Arsenal on the final day
The veteran Brazilian goalkeeper is likely to be on the move again this summer despite only arriving at QPR from Inter Milan a year ago. Arsenal are on the lookout for a goalkeeper and may turn to Cesar if they cannot land some of their other options. A return to Brazil has also been mooted for the 33-year-old, who will surely depart Loftus Road following Rangers’ relegation from the Premier League, as his manager Harry Redknapp has admitted he is too good for the Championship. Perhaps some good news at last for Rob Green!
99. Alvaro Negredo (Sevilla)
The Spanish international striker came close to joining Everton in January, and has admitted a liking for English football. Arsenal and Tottenham may move for him this summer as both are keen to sign strikers, but the 27-year-old could be persuaded to stay in Spain as Atletico Madrid are reportedly eyeing him up as a replacement for Radamel Falcao if he leaves. After showing his quality with 81 goals in the last four years with Sevilla, he may feel he has earned a chance at a bigger club next season.
98. Adil Rami (Valencia)
One of the most solid defenders in Spain, Adil Rami is on the lookout for a move to a bigger club this summer to boost his chances of a starting place in France’s squad for the 2014 World Cup. Arsenal and Manchester United are said to be the frontrunners for his signature, and he would certainly be a bargain at Valencia’s supposed asking price of just £10million.
97. Andreas Weimann (Aston Villa)
The young Austrian has been something of a revelation for Aston Villa this season, with some eye-catching displays to help Paul Lambert’s side survive relegation. The attacking midfielder, who can also play upfront, has got himself on Liverpool’s radar with his performances and his 12 goals in all competitions. His agent has admitted he is unlikely to stay at Villa Park, but wants a move to another Premier League club.
96. Aleksandar Kolarov (Manchester City)
The £16million signing from Lazio has not really looked the part for City, and could be heading back to Serie A this summer with champions Juventus showing an interest in the left-back. With City offering Gael Clichy a four-year contract, it is clear that he has become first choice on the left side of defence, as Kolarov has not shown the same defensive discipline in that role, possibly operating better as a wing back, which would suit Juventus’ 3-5-2 formation.
95. Bacary Sagna (Arsenal)
Sagna’s six-year stay with Arsenal could be coming to an end, as the right-back has reportedly refused to sign a new contract. PSG have shown the strongest interest in the 30-year-old, and he has not ruled out a move to the French giants. Monaco are also said to be interested, and Arsenal will surely choose to sell him this summer rather than risk losing him on a free next season – a similarly sticky situation to the one they found themselves in with Robin van Persie last year.
94. Dimitar Berbatov (Fulham)
The Bulgarian forward only joined Fulham from Manchester United last summer, but is reportedly unhappy at Craven Cottage already. The 32-year-old has had a good season for Martin Jol’s side, and his displays have attracted the interest of big-spending Turkish giants Galatasaray, who will to carry on their ambitious January spending which saw big names such as Wesley Sneijder and Didier Drogba join the club. Fulham may decide to take the reasonable £5million offer for an ageing player and reinvest in their squad to improve their displays next season.
93. Anders Lindegaard (Manchester United)
West Ham are said to be monitoring the situation of Manchester United’s backup goalkeeper Anders Lindegaard. The 29-year-old is unlikely to break past David de Gea in the pecking order, and could be tempted by the Hammers’ offer of first team football.
92. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (St Etienne)
This highly rated young forward has caught the eye of many top clubs with his performances for St Etienne this season. The 23-year-old has scored 20 goals in Ligue 1 and is being watched by Premier League trio Arsenal, Tottenham and Newcastle. Though the player himself has said he dreams of playing for Real Madrid.
91. Arjen Robben (Bayern Munich)
The former Chelsea winger has been a key player for Bayern Munich over the last few years, but may be on the way out this summer after falling down the club’s pecking order. However, his talents are still admired by Manchester City, who are being tipped to make a move for the speedy Dutchman.
90. Sergi Roberto (Barcelona)
This young Barcelona midfielder is reportedly holding talks over a summer switch to Tottenham, as he does not fancy his chances of breaking past the likes of Xavi and Iniesta into Barca’s vastly talented midfield.
89. Ashley Williams (Swansea City)
The Swansea captain has had another impressive season, helping his team to glory in the Capital One Cup. Arsenal and Liverpool are showing a strong interest as they look to add a centre-back to their squads this summer, and have been told by Swansea that they will have to pay £10million for the Welshman.
88. Tim Krul (Newcastle)
The talented Dutch shot stopper is being tipped to leave St James’ Park this summer after Newcastle have had a poor season fighting relegation. Roma are said to be leading the way for the 25-year-old, and AC Milan are also admirers of his. This will come as a blow to Alan Pardew, as he will also lose backup ‘keeper Steve Harper, who has made the decision to retire at the end of the season.
87. Angelo Ogbonna (Torino)
A whole host of clubs have been watching Angelo Ogbonna of Torino. The talented 24-year-old centre-back could be approached by any one of Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool or AC Milan this summer, as a big move surely beckons for the Italian international. Reports suggest he would cost around £17million.
86. Fernandinho (Shakhtar Donetsk)
The Brazilian midfielder has pleaded for Shakhtar Donetsk to lower their asking price so that he can move to Manchester City, who have made him one of their main targets for this summer’s transfer window. At the moment he could cost around £42.5million due to the release clause in his contract, but he is a top talent who could improve City’s midfield for the title race next season.
85. Leighton Baines (Everton)
With Everton manager David Moyes leaving the club to join Manchester United, he is apparently keen to take left-back Leighton Baines with him. The former Wigan man has been a stand-out performer at Goodison Park this year and would be an upgrade on Patrice Evra in United’s defence. Everton will be determined not to lose him, but he could go for around £15-20million.
84. Dani Alves (Barcelona)
The Brazilian right-back has been a world class player over the last few years at Barcelona, though his form has dipped this season. He has been linked with a summer move to PSG, and the Catlans are willing to sell the player as they make some changes to their inconsistent squad, which has been unconvincing despite their La Liga title win.
83. Alvaro Pereira (Inter Milan)
Former Porto left-back Alvaro Pereira says he will stay and fight for his place at Inter Milan, but the Serie A club may decide they’d rather let him go if interest from Tottenham and his old boss Andre Villas-Boas continues. Spurs are keen to recruit a new player to replace Benoit Assou-Ekotto and Danny Rose, who are unlikely to be kept at the club for next season.
82. Gervinho (Arsenal)
The Ivorian forward is somehow a target for Turkish giants Galatasaray, who are willing to pay an incredible £12million for the 25-year-old who has been such a flop for Arsenal. With just eight league goals in two seasons, the former Lille man does not look like Premier League quality at all, often getting himself into a muddle with his wayward dribbling and missing easy chances when they are presented to him. Arsenal will be hoping to take the money and run if Galatasaray really rate him.
81. Florian Thauvin (Lille)
This exciting 20-year-old attacking midfielder is attracting a lot of interest after his displays this season for Bastia, where he has been on loan. Arsenal, Chelsea and Newcastle are all said to have made enquiries about him in January and could move for him again as they look to strengthen their squads this summer.
80. Younes Belhanda (Montpellier)
Arsenal and Spurs target Younes Belhanda will leave Montpellier this summer, his club have confirmed. The talented 23-year-old has been a key player for the French side over the last couple of years and is said to be keen on a new challenge, with a particular liking for English football. Newcastle are also likely to show an interest given their recent liking for players from France, and Belhanda could be one of the bargains of the summer with just an £8million asking price from Montpellier.
79. Ilkay Gundogan (Borussia Dortmund)
One of many players impressing in the Bundesliga at the moment, Ilkay Gundogan’s displays for Borussia Dortmund have attracted a lot of interest from the likes of Arsenal, Manchester United and Barcelona. The 22-year-old is a skillful defensive midfielder who could add a lot of quality to any of those sides’ squads. United appear to be leading the way for his signature, as they look to improve on their current options in the middle of the park, which will be weakened with Paul Scholes’ retirement and possible departure of Anderson.
78. Esteban Granero (Queens Park Rangers)
Esteban Granero has not had the best of seasons at QPR, despite looking like a quality signing from Real Madrid. The team have struggled as a whole this season, finding themselves surprisingly relegated when they were expected to aim for a top half finish after all the money they spent. Granero is one of many big-name flops, scoring just one goal and providing just one assist. The 25-year-old is still highly rated however, and is reportedly a target for Serie A side Fiorentina.
77. Adem Ljajic (Fiorentina)
Chelsea are said to be leading the chase for Fiorentina’s Adem Ljajic, one of the best young players in Serie A. The talented 21-year-old was once a target for Manchester United when he was younger, though a move fell through. He is now hot property after developing into a fine player in Italy, and will also attract interest from Arsenal and Manchester City this summer. With 8 goals and 8 assists for La Viola in Serie A, imagine what he could do in one of the top Premier League sides.
76. Heung-Min Son (Hamburg)
One of the best young players in the Bundesliga, Hamburg forward Heung-Min Son is much in demand this summer, with Arsenal, Tottenham and Borussia Dortmund all said to be vying for his signature. Hamburg have recently said they are confident of keeping him as they have not yet received any bids for the skillful 20-year-old, but it is surely only a matter of time before the young South Korean moves on to bigger things.
75. Hernanes (Lazio)
Manchester City are said to be hot on the heals of Lazio’s Brazilian star Hernanes, and the player himself has welcomed their interest. The 27-year-old has a great reputation after moving to Serie A a few years ago, perhaps known best for his powerful long range shots, as well as his overall passing and playmaking abilities from the middle of the park. City would be lucky to have him as he could form a great midfield partnership with Yaya Toure and help get them back on track for a title challenge next season.
74. Pepe Reina (Liverpool)
Barcelona have apparently identified Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina as a top priority target this summer, as they expect Victor Valdes to leave the club. Valdes himself could make his way to the Premier League, while Reina could return to the club where he started his career. The 30-year-old’s departure may be a blessing in disguise for Reds boss Brendan Rodgers, as Reina has not been at his best for a couple of years now, and could be improved on. Liverpool could make some decent money from his sale and get someone more reliable between the posts for next season.
73. Michel Vorm (Swansea City)
Liverpool could in fact target Swansea City’s Michel Vorm if Reina leaves. The Dutch shot stopper is also another target for Barcelona, but he may be keen to reunite with Brendan Rodgers at Liverpool, after it was he that brought him to the Premier League in his time at Swansea. The 29-year-old is widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the country at the moment and is also a target for Arsenal, who are looking out for a new goalkeeper to replace or at least challenge the off-form Wojciech Szczesny for his place in the team.
72. Mohamed Diame (West Ham)
West Ham could lose Mohamed Diame this summer, just one season after they signed the Senegalese midfielder from Wigan. The 25-year-old has had an excellent season for the Hammers, and was reportedly close to joining Arsenal or Tottenham in January. The move never materialised, but his £3.5million minimum release fee clause is likely to see the North London pair sniffing around again in the summer transfer window. Both clubs could do with reinforcements in the defensive midfield position, as Arsenal are still to find a suitable replacement for Alex Song, who left for Barcelona last summer. Tottenham could also do with strengthening in that area, as Sandro and Scott Parker have had lengthy spells out with injury this season. Parker has also been linked with a move to relegated QPR. At this kind of price, a talent like Diame is unlikely to remain at West Ham.
71. Laurent Koscielny (Arsenal)
The talented French centre-back is reportedly a target for Pep Guardiola, who will be taking over as manager of Bayern Munich next season. The 27-year-old has proved a good find by Arsene Wenger since joining as a relative unknown from Lorient in 2010, establishing himself as one of the club’s best defenders. Now valued at around £20million, he would be a good addition to this strong Bayern side, though Wenger will be hoping not to lose another important and experienced member of his squad this summer. Barcelona have also been linked, as they look to strengthen in central defence after a season of injuries and poor form from Carles Puyol and Gerard Pique.
70. Tom Ince (Blackpool)
This exciting young winger is earning rave reviews after his performances in the Championship, and is wanted by his old club Liverpool, as well as Tottenham and Inter Milan. Blackpool are keen to tie down the 21-year-old to a new contract, though it seems unlikely that they will be able to fight off so much interest in their star player. Having started his career at Anfield, he could be a good addition to a squad lacking in talented wingers at the moment, and looks good value at around £7million. The son of former England captain Paul Ince is arguably a better player than Manchester United-bound Wilfried Zaha, who earned his move to Old Trafford in January after his displays for Crystal Palace.
69. Angel Di Maria (Real Madrid)
Real Madrid are planning something of a summer clear-out, and Angel Di Maria could be one to go. The talented Argentine has not had his best season this year, and may fall further down the pecking order with some of the big names that are expected to join at the Bernebeu. Manchester United are rumoured to be interested, with their need for wingers to improve on the likes of Nani and Ashley Young, and AC Milan are also said to be considering a move. He would apparently be available for around £15million and could do with a move to get his promising career back on track.
68. Marouane Fellaini (Everton)
Another player said to be leaving alongside David Moyes for Manchester United, the talented Belgian has apparently welcomed the interest from Old Trafford. Everton will be keen not to lose him as well as Leighton Baines, but the towering midfielder has been another stand-out performer this year and has expressed a desire to play in the Champions League. Chelsea and Arsenal have also been linked with him, and he has a minimum release fee clause of around £25million, which would be decent money for a player who guarantees you goals, assists, an aerial threat and good defensive work in midfield. He is a very influential player and looks to have outgrown Everton at this stage in his career.
67. Asmir Begovic (Stoke City)
The Stoke City goalkeeper has arguably been their best player this season, in a disappointing campaign for the Potters in which they fought against relegation. The Bosnian shot stopper is now on the radar of the likes of Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal. The 25-year-old would cost around £15million and prove a good option for any of those sides. He has said he is happy at Stoke, but with manager Tony Pulis already bringing in young goalkeeper Jack Butland from Birmingham City in the summer, he may be expecting Begovic to be sold, and they may not feel they are able to turn down that kind of money if the offers come in.
66. Hatem Ben Arfa (Newcastle)
After a poor season for Newcastle, it would be no surprise to see a number of key players depart, and Hatem Ben Arfa is certainly one of them. On his day the exciting French winger can win games on his own with remarkable dribbling skills and powerful long range shots. Still only 26, he would be a good investment for any top club and supposedly already has offers from Tottenham and Liverpool, with PSG also monitoring his situation. The one problem with the former Marseille star is that he has been plagued by injuries during his time in England, but it’s no surprise to see top clubs showing an interest given what he can do if he stays fit. His absence this season has played a big part in Newcastle’s worsening fortunes.
65. Kevin De Bruyne (Chelsea)
This talented Chelsea youngster has really put himself in the shop window with his displays on loan at Bundesliga side Werder Bremen this season. The Belgian still seems unlikely to force his way into the Chelsea team, so will reportedly attract a bid from Borussia Dotmund. Jurgen Klopp’s side see the 21-year-old as a good replacement for Bayern Munich-bound Mario Goetze, which is some compliment. Bayer Leverkusen may also ask for him in return for long-time Blues target Andre Schurrle, though many Bundesliga fans cannot understand why Chelsea don’t want to keep him.
64. Lukas Podolski (Arsenal)
Lukas Podolski has had a decent start to life in English football, but due to some fitness problems and recent omissions from the team, it has been suggested that he could leave the club just one season after joining from Cologne. Atletico Madrid and Juventus have been linked with the German forward, but the strongest interest seems to be coming from Galatasaray, who could make a double swoop on Arsenal as they also look to sign Gervinho from the Gunners. They will offer £12million for the 27-year-old, and Arsenal don’t have a great recent track record of keeping their big names at the club.
63. Micah Richards (Manchester City)
Micah Richards has been unfortunate to find himself out of the Manchester City team this season, after some problems with injuries and the fine form of Pablo Zabaleta. Now 24, the talented right-back needs regular first team football if he has any hope of getting back into the England squad, and it is said that Liverpool and Arsenal may come in for him this summer. Richards can also play at centre-back and deserves a chance to be playing regularly at a top club, though a high asking price of £15million may put some clubs off, due to his recent lack of regular action.
62. Burak Yilmaz (Galatasaray)
This Turkish striker has shown himself to be something of a goal machine this season for Galatasaray, in both the league and the Champions League. Arsenal and Liverpool are known to be looking for strikers this summer and have been linked with the 27-year-old, as have Manchester United and Napoli. Galatasaray have made it clear they will expect around £15million for their star striker, though they have also admitted that they don’t hold out much hope of keeping him. However, with plenty of summer spending plans of their own, they might not miss him so much.
61. Aaron Lennon (Tottenham)
The speedy Spurs winger has never quite looked like becoming the world class talent that he looked like as a youngster in his days at Leeds. The 26-year-old has been at White Hart Lane for most of his career now, but could be subject to a summer bid from Serie A giants Inter Milan. Spurs may feel it is time for the England international to move on while they pursue other targets, and Lennon could also do with a new challenge in Italy, and certainly improve this Inter side that is struggling so much at the moment.
60. Brad Guzan (Aston Villa)
West Ham’s search for a goalkeeper could see them approach Aston Villa for Brad Guzan. The Hammers, as already mentioned, are keen on Manchester United’s backup ‘keeper Anders Lindegaard, but with the Danish shot stopper supposedly happy to stay at Old Trafford, Guzan could be a good second choice. The American has been in fine form for Villa this season after replacing Shay Given as first choice at Villa Park. the 28-year-old could be sold at a very healthy profit for Villa, now valued at around £5million – not bad for a player that cost £600,000 when he was signed from MLS side Chivas in 2008.
59. Jesus Navas (Sevilla)
The Sevilla winger has been highly rated since a young age, but has spent his entire career with his boyhood club due to suffering from chronic homesickness, which also affects him when he travels with the Spanish national team. However, he continues to attract interest from top clubs as there is no doubting his quality. The skillful winger is wanted by Manchester City and Borussia Dortmund, as both sides hope to strengthen their attacking midfield options.
58. Koke (Atletico Madrid)
This talented young Atletico Madrid playmaker is one of many in this generation of impressive Spanish midfielders, and has previously been linked with Manchester United and Arsenal. Roma are now rumoured to be stepping up their interest, and other big clubs may soon follow for a 21-year-old who surely has a great future in the game.
57. Lukasz Piszczek (Borussia Dortmund)
With Bacary Sagna likely to leave Arsenal, the Gunners have been linked with Borussia Dortmund’s Polish right-back Lukasz Piszczek. The 27-year-old has emerged as a key performer for both club and country in recent years, combining great defensive work with a high work rate and ability to get forward. Piszczek won’t come cheap, but he could actually be a significant improvement on Sagna for Arsenal, as the Frenchman has not been at his best this season and is surely past his peak at the age of 30. Chelsea have also watched him in the past and with a number of players likely to leave Dortmund this summer, there could be a few clubs who try their luck with Piszczek.
56. Aymen Abdennour (Toulouse)
Arsenal, Liverpool and Barcelona have all watched this highly rated Ligue 1 defender in recent months, and it now seems Liverpool will step up their interest and table a £6million bid for the Tunisian international. The versatile 23-year-old defender can play both centre-back and left-back, and would be a very useful addition to any of these clubs, due to their current defensive problems. He has certainly established himself as one of the best defenders in the French league, and interest in him is no surprise.
55. Romelu Lukaku (Chelsea)
Romelu Lukaku will be a wanted man this summer, even if it is only on loan. The young Belgian has been in great form on loan at West Brom from Chelsea, but it seems he still won’t quite work his way into the Blues’ starting lineup next season. West Ham appear to be leading the chase for the talented 19-year-old, who will certainly help the club deal with the loss of Andy Carroll if they don’t manage to sign him permanently. Lukaku’s form has also attracted interest from Swansea, Fulham and even Italian giants Juventus, but as with Kevin De Bruyne it’s hard to understand why Chelsea can’t find a use for him – he would surely be an improvement on Fernando Torres and Demba Ba.
54. Luke Shaw (Southampton)
It’s incredible to think Luke Shaw is only 17 and playing his first season in the Southampton first team. The young left-back has slotted in seamlessly for the Saints in the Premier League this season, and looks to be the latest in the line of great players produced by the academy at St Mary’s, along with Gareth Bale, Theo Walcott and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. He has played with great maturity in defence this season, and also looks a skillful attacker going forward. Chelsea and Tottenham are the main clubs that seem to be in for him, and despite saying he’s a Chelsea fan, he is said to be torn between the two options. Arsenal have also shown an interest, and it looks like Southampton will have a big job on their hands fighting off interest in their young prodigy this summer.
53. Franco Di Santo (Wigan)
West Brom are keen to land Franco Di Santo from relegated Wigan. The 24-year-old is a free agent this summer after his deal at the DW Stadium is set to expire, and the Baggies will need a new striker as loan star Romelu Lukaku heads back to Chelsea. Shane Long could also leave the club, and want-away striker Peter Odemwingie will probably be shown the door after his antics in the January transfer window. This will leave Steve Clarke’s side desperately short of options upfront and Di Santo has shown himself as a very capable Premier League player in the last couple of seasons with Wigan, despite their regular battles with relegation and their eventual drop this year.
52. Daniele De Rossi (Roma)
If Jose Mourinho rejoins Chelsea, he has reportedly made Roma midfielder Daniele De Rossi a prime target. The Blues could do with extra options in midfield and could land the 29-year-old for just £10million after he has had a relatively disappointing season in Serie A. He has been linked with moves to the Premier League before, with both Manchester United and Manchester City showing an interest, and this could finally be the year he leaves the club he’s been with for his whole career.
51. Karim Benzema (Real Madrid)
Manchester United are known to be on the lookout for strikers this summer, and Karim Benzema could be available after falling down in the pecking order at Real Madrid. The talented French finisher still has an impressive record of 19 goals and 20 assists this season, and could surely reach world class form again if given the chance. Manchester United are currently being linked with a move for the France international who should cost around £30million.
50. Scott Sinclair (Manchester City)
Scott Sinclair’s move from Swansea to Manchester City has been nothing short of a disaster this season, as the 24-year-old has hardly featured for Roberto Mancini’s side. Mancini admitted he was unfair on him and didn’t give him enough opportunities, but even with the Italian being sacked following his side’s shock defeat to Wigan in the FA Cup final, City are sure to welcome offers for the unwanted winger. The most likely moves for him at the moment seem to be either a return to Swansea or to Liverpool where he would play under his old Swansea boss Brendan Rodgers.
49. Zlatan Ibrahimovic (PSG)
After a falling out with Leonardo at PSG, Zlatan Ibrahimovic could be set for a move back to Italy with Juventus, after just one season (and another league title in another country) in France. The talented but eccentric Swede has arguably shown the best form of his career in Serie A, originally with Juventus, and then Inter Milan and AC Milan. Juve are keen to sign some strikers this summer, and Ibrahimovic remains one of the best in the game, bringing success with him wherever he goes.
48. Thiago Alcantara (Barcelona)
Barcelona midfielder Thiago Alcantara could be a good option for a number of clubs this summer, as he remains a wasted talent at the Nou Camp. The 22-year-old is one of the club’s brightest prospects, but he has been unfortunate to be around when such star names such as Xavi and Iniesta are always going to be picked ahead of him. Manchester United are on alert after hearing he could be sold, and he has been previously linked with the likes of Manchester City and Arsenal. He’s certainly too good to be on the bench for much longer, so is sure to be on the move this summer.
47. Yohan Cabaye (Newcastle)
Yohan Cabaye has really impressed since joining Newcastle from French side Lille for what now looks like a real bargain at just £4million, and was almost immediately linked with Arsenal. The talented playmaker could now be a £20million target for Manchester United as they seek a long-term replacement for the retiring Paul Scholes. The 27-year-old could also be tempted by a move away after a difficult season of fighting relegation with Alan Pardew’s side.
46. Papiss Cisse (Newcastle)
Borussia Dortmund are on the lookout for a number of strikers this summer due to the inevitable loss of star man Robert Lewandowski, and Newcastle’s Papiss Cisse is the latest to apparently be on their shortlist. The Senegalese forward made an explosive start to life in the Premier League last season with an incredible 13 goals in 14 games – including an absolute wonder-strike against Chelsea – but has struggled somewhat this time round, albeit in a team that has been worse overall this season. He could be tempted by a return to the Bundesliga, where he first made a name for himself with Freiburg.
45. Jackson Martinez (Porto)
Borussia Dortmund may also go head-t0-head with Liverpool for in-form Porto striker Jackson Martinez. The Colombian has had a great breakthrough season in Portugal, scoring an excellent 33 goals in 38 games in his first season with the club. Manchester United and Chelsea have also been linked, though they appear to have more pressing targets.
44. Nemanja Matic (Benfica)
This former Chelsea youngster has made a real name for himself at Benfica, impressing this season in his team’s run to the Europa League final. Chelsea have been unsurprisingly linked with a return for the Serbian, though Manchester United are also keen on him to improve their midfield options this summer. He would supposedly cost around £45million, which may be a stumbling block in the deal. One of a few Benfica players who could be snapped up by bigger clubs in the upcoming transfer window.
43. Victor Valdes (Barcelona)
Barcelona goalkeeper Victor Valdes has confirmed his desire to leave Barcelona after a fantastic eleven years with the club. The Spaniard wants a new challenge and could be signed by any one of a number of interested parties. Arsenal are considering him as one of several options for a new goalkeeper, and Manchester United and PSG are also keen on the 31-year-old. His experience and history of winning things would be a great addition to any side’s dressing room, and it’s certainly Barca’s loss. They are reportedly targeting the uninspiring Pepe Reina of Liverpool as a replacement.
42. Andre Schurrle (Bayer Leverkusen)
The signing of Andre Schurrle from Bayer Leverkusen to Chelsea looked like being a done deal not so long ago, though the move hasn’t progressed from there. Still, the Blues are determined to land this long-standing target and add to their attacking midfield options next season. He should cost around £20million and looks worth every penny as another great prospect emerging from German football at the moment.
41. Callum McManaman (Wigan)
With Wigan relegated from the Premier League, a number of their best players are sure to leave for bigger clubs, and none have caught the eye more recently than Callum McManaman. The young winger played a great part in the club’s miraculous FA Cup win and is now a target for Liverpool, though boss Roberto Martinez has pleaded with him to reject a move and continue his development with Wigan in the Championship. Not sure he’ll listen to that particular piece of advice.
40. Loic Remy (Queens Park Rangers)
The January signing from Marseille has proved a hit in the Premier League, though his six goals in thirteen games have not been enough to keep Queens Park Rangers from avoiding relegation. The French striker was wanted by Arsenal and Newcastle as well in January, and they may move again this summer as he is sure to be available following Rangers’ drop to the Championship. He apparently has a minimum release fee clause of £8million and Liverpool are also keen on him, though he has described Arsenal as a ‘dream move’.
39. Joao Moutinho (Porto)
Joao Moutinho came close to joining his old Porto boss Andre Villas-Boas at Tottenham last summer, though a move didn’t materialise in the final hours of the transfer window. Spurs are expected to rekindle their interest in the Portuguese playmaker, though he is also a target for big-spending Monaco, who may be more able to offer his £33million fee than Spurs are.
38. Alex Song (Barcelona)
Alex Song has had a tough time since joining Arsenal from Barcelona, which may come as no surprise. He had a good season for the Gunners last year, but he never exactly looked capable of dislodging Sergio Busquets in Barca’s defensive midfield position. He is now understandably unhappy after a season on the bench and pining for a return to Arsenal. Arsene Wenger has ruled out a move, but he often likes to keep his cards close to his chest, and may be tempted to bring back a player he has so far failed to replace. Spurs and Manchester City have also been linked with the Cameroon international.
When you’re sitting in the pub with your mates, picking your favourites of the Premier League, the one position that has to be the hardest to choose a winner for is the right-back. It is not in any way as easy as left-back, with Ashley Cole usually taking that spot, and Leighton Baines coming through [...]
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