Transfer Updates

Arsene Wenger surprised a few on Monday night when he opted to switch Arsenal to a 3-man defence. He hoped that the decision would see similar success to Antonio Conte’s.

Chelsea were struggling in the early stages under Conte but after changing to a 3-man defence they produced stunning form that will surely see them lift the title. Title challenging manager Pochettino has also demonstrated tactical flexibility, successfully implementing 3-man defence on several occasions. Arsenal won against Boro on Monday in the new formation, but they didn’t flatter. It’s clear that if Wenger wants to implement this system in the long-term then Arsenal need to make some signings. According to The Mirror, this is exactly what Wenger wants to do, and he’s willing to heavily invest in a special Premier League talent to do just that. The player said to tickle Wenger’s fancy is Southampton defender Virgil van Dijk, a player widely considered amongst the best in his position in the league, however his club value him at £50million. With the likes of Chelsea interested, Arsenal may have to pay close to that amount as a summer bidding war is likely.

But if Arsenal are to seriously compete for major honours, they need to start winning these bidding wars. If van Dijk is the player the club want and the player the club need, then they should do everything in their power to sign him. Laurent Koscielny, Shkodran Mustafi, Rob Holding and even Calum Chambers all have the potential to be successful in a 3-man defence, but there is something that Arsenal don’t currently have amongst their rank of central defenders and that is a strong, aerially dominant centre-half. Van Dijk ticks those boxes and also has a lot of technical ability – something that would make him well suited to Arsenal’s style of play and also a great spearhead for the defensive 3.

He’s a good age to invest in too, at 25 years old he has established himself in the league as a top player and still has his prime years ahead of him.

Van Dijk has won on average 4.7 aerial duels per game won in the league this season – greater than Mustafi (3.8) and Koscielny (3.7). The Dutchman’s 6ft 4’ presence will be one of the biggest additions to the Arsenal back line if he were to arrive. Arsenal have lost too many points this season via a lack of defensive authority, particularly in aerial duels and with organisation. A back three of Mustafi, van Dijk and Koscielny would make Arsenal very hard to beat and certainly aid their title challenge next season.

Southampton will be reluctant to sell another top class player this summer, but there must be a reluctance to some degree that van Dijk will want to move on and play European football next season. Will Arsenal flex their financial muscle and beat Chelsea to this signing though? It seems the Gunners missed out on N’Golo Kante for financial reasons and they will not want to let another top quality Premier League established player join a title rival.

Whilst Arsenal might be having managerial problems, they are also having some consistent problems on the pitch. With the end of the season approaching, Arsenal cannot afford to dither in the market and allow rivals to sign quality talent ahead of them. It seems that despite all the noise around Wenger’s future, he and the club have already managed to sign a very highly rated Bundesliga talent…

Left-back has been an area of concern all season, with the previously consistent Nacho Monreal falling out of form. Kieran Gibbs, Arsenal’s current backup option also hasn’t managed to offer much in terms of quality and I am sure that a new left back will have been high on the wish list for many fans this summer. It seems Arsenal may have already bagged a top talent in this position. With Schalke defender Sead Kolasinac’s contract set to expire at the end of the season, many of Europe’s top clubs have been lining up to agree a pre-contract deal with him. Arsenal appear to have won that race, with Juventus and Everton amongst the clubs who reportedly missed out.

Kolasinac is considered to be a very good player at both ends of the pitch. Defensively he is solid and known for his good tackling. He stands at over 6ft and is good in aerial duels, a rare trait for a full back and something Arsenal need. He has averaged 2.9 tackles, 2.1 clearances and 3.6 interceptions per 90 minutes this season – a very impressive set of defensive statistics.

In an attacking sense he’s scored 3 goals and assisted 5 in 21 Bundesliga appearances this season, a phenomenal return for a full-back.

Another poor performance from Monreal against Middlesbrough just fueled the fans thirst for a new left back. Here’s some reaction to the Kolasinac news…

Cant wait for Kolasinac.
Cant watch Monreal anymore, he'll be a terrible wing back

— Römeo (@Arsenal490304) April 17, 2017

Can't wait till Monreal is sold this summer. Main man Kolašinac coming next season

— Najyah (@ClassicArsxnal) April 17, 2017

Kolasinac wouldn't have let Downing cross

— renato (@rehnato) April 17, 2017

It's a shame he can't make overlapping runs, too old and immobile for that. Kolasinac would offer us a great improvement in that aspect. https://t.co/4RXO9H3ygb

— M'A8 (@mezzalaEN) April 17, 2017

Kolasinac is a decent signing for Arsenal. Huge improvement on Monreal

— ryan (@KeenanAndKeI) April 14, 2017

In my opinion this is a really good signing for Arsenal. Wenger showed he could switch to a wing back system in the game against Middlesbrough, and Kolasinac would thrive in such a system. You can see from the goals and assists he’s produced this season that Kolasinac has the potential to tt

Arsenal’s managerial uncertainty hasn’t stopped them making moves in the transfer market, with the latest reports suggesting that the Gunners are closing in on the signing of a new left-back.

Left-back is certainly one of many areas where Arsenal will be looking to improve over the summer and Schalke full-back Sead Kolasinac could be set to join the club for free, with Goal reporting that the Gunners are confident of landing the Bosnian defender.

The 23-year-old is primarily a left-back, but can also fill in as a central defender or in defensive midfield, so his versatility will certainly be attractive. Juventus are one of a number of top clubs that have been linked with a move for Kolasinac, whose contract expires at the end of the season.

Arsenal and other foreign clubs will have been allowed to negotiate a pre-contract with the player since January due to the Bosman rule.

Kieran Gibbs and Nacho Monreal have struggled to consistently convince in the left-back role, and it has been a long time since either put in a memorable attacking or defensive performance. Gibbs is one of a number of squad players that could be set to leave the club in the summer. He has been at the club for some time now but with just one year remaining on his contract and the player not able to hold down a

Gibbs is one of a number of squad players that could be set to leave Arsenal in the summer. He has been at the club for some time now but with just one year remaining on his contract and the player not able to hold down a first-team spot, he could be allowed to leave should a suitable offer arrive.

How good is he?

The calibre of club showing an interest in Kolasinac show that he is a very talented player. Is he what Arsenal need?

Despite being just 23, Kolasinac has been an ever-present in the Schalke XI for some time, making over 100 senior appearances for the club. Kolasinac is considered to be a very good player at both ends of the pitch. Defensively he is solid and known for his good tackling. He stands at over 6ft and is good in aerial duels, a rare trait for a full back and something Arsenal

Kolasinac is considered to be a very good player at both ends of the pitch. Defensively he is solid and known for his good tackling. He stands at over 6ft and is good in aerial duels, a rare trait for a full back and something Arsenal need. He has averaged 2.9 tackles, 2.1 clearances and 3.6 interceptions per 90 minutes this season - a very impressive set of defensive statistics.

In an attacking sense he’s scored 3 goals and assisted 5 in 21 Bundesliga appearances this season, a phenomenal return for a full-back.

He’s nowhere near the speed of Hector Bellerin, but he is deceptively quick for a man of his size and strength - from what I’ve seen he is quicker than Arsenal’s current first choice left back, Monreal.

Of course as a free signing there is little risk involved here and the Gunners could even sign another left back on top of Kolasinac if they wanted to replace both Monreal and Gibbs. The Gunners need to invest a lot of money in their team this summer and the chance to make a first team improvement for free would be brilliant.

Chelsea are having a brilliant season on the pitch, but off the pitch it looks like they may have some issues to deal with come the summer. Here are three players that could reportedly be leaving the club in the summer…

1 - Diego Costa

Costa started the season in brilliant form but since the rumours of a move away started in January, he has struggled to score consistently. There have been rumours he is not happy in London and these appear to have been confirmed in his latest quotes.

Costa revealed after his team beat Bournemouth at the weekend: “I am happy at Chelsea, I am not necessarily saying that I am happy with my life in London. But that is something totally different.”

Costa is a player who plays with emotion and when his head is not in a good place, his performance certainly suffers. At his best and his most focussed, in my opinion, he is one of the best number 9’s in the world. It will be very hard to replace him, but the likes of Lukaku have been linked.

The latest Premier League odds for relegation continue to fluctuate. Yet, where Swansea City AFC is concerned, the outlook remains bleaker than a cold front in November across the Gower peninsula.

Unlike the condemned duo beneath them (Sunderland and Middlesbrough), the Swans do remain in realistic contention for survival after a traumatic season. However, a 3-1 home defeat to Tottenham on April 5, provided further illustration of the guile and assertiveness that the Swansea XI sorely lacks on home turf.

Another Swansea defeat at the weekend, 1-0 at the London Stadium, represented a paltry return of one point from the last twelve for Paul Clement’s men. That is prime relegation form by any measure, but more especially so at this stage of the season.

Without the endeavour and diligence of set-piece expert Gylfi Sigurdsson, Paul Clement’s ailing Swansea side would already be consigned to certain relegation. Regardless of Swansea’s Premier League status (or lack thereof) in 2017/18, the Icelandic midfielder will be a wanted man by clubs across the continent this summer.

Blue is the Colour, is Chelsea the Name?

Relegation for Swansea would merely serve to make the probable inevitable. For Sigurdsson, a move to Stamford Bridge would represent just reward for seasons of hard graft with a Swansea squad that, it could be argued, no longer deserves his services.

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte is now mere weeks away from winning the Premier League title on his first attempt. As a front three, Eden Hazard, Diego Costa and Pedro have proven to be unplayable at times this season, with Hazard particularly emerging as Chelsea’s most dangerous all-rounder after a poor season in 2015/16.

With Chelsea’s attacking potency taken into account, it is difficult to see how exactly Sigurdsson would fit into Conte’s setup on a regular basis. There will, however, be the additional distraction of Champions League football for Conte and his battling blues next season, which at least makes Sigurdsson’s entry into the starting XI via squad rotation a possibility.

Additionally, Sigurdsson’s ability from set pieces could be an asset when it comes to stealing away goals, at Europe’s most famous fortresses, in the knockout phase.

‘Nil Satis Nisi Optimum’ for Sigurdsson?

Curiously, most bookmakers believe that Goodison Park is by far the likeliest destination for Sigurdsson, with such a move priced at around 4/1.

Everton striker Romelu Lukaku appears all but bound for a summer departure, and on current form, his value should easily hit the £60 million mark. This return on investment, combined with the wealth of Iranian billionaire shareholder Farhad Moshiri, represents a summer of unprecedented opportunity for the blue half of Merseyside.

In the event of his arrival at Goodison Park, Sigurdsson will likely contest the so-called “Number Ten” role with boyhood blue Ross Barkley.

Amongst Everton fans, opinions of Barkley remain mixed. However, Barkley’s omission in favour of a new face could well destroy what is currently a good dressing room spirit, but there is also room for great improvement at set pieces. While the aging Leighton Baines is a certified maestro from the penalty spot, it is also worth noting that Everton have been deprived of a true set piece specialist since the departure of Mikel Arteta in 2011.

The only feasible way in which Sigurdsson could play alongside Barkley would be at the centre of a ‘false nine’, in front of a solid defensive midfield trio of Davies, Schneiderlin and Gana. Ronald Koeman would, however, consider many other alternatives before even dreaming of resorting to a ‘false nine’.

Ultimately, developments around this particular move are worth watching. However, the move itself is not necessarily one to back as of yet.

A fine claret?

With a Chelsea move considered unlikely by bookmakers, Sigurdsson may find solace at another London club. Following in the footsteps of former Swansea teammate Andre Ayew, Sigurdsson would find himself a highly-valued part of an intriguing project at the London Stadium.

In Robert Snodgrass, Slaven Bilic already has a set piece expert at his disposal. Undeniably, the combination of Snodgrass and Sigurdsson in the same starting XI would see West Ham reach peak capability in the centre of the park. Yet, without adequate strengthening in the wide areas, West Ham will continue to experience barren runs of form next season.

In the wing play department, Michael Antonio arguably remains West Ham’s MVP, but like Sigurdsson, he is not without his suitors. Should Antonio depart, Sigurdsson’s task of stabilising West Ham’s playing style could be greatly complicated by the presence of an unknown quantity in the wide area.

Though second-favourites to sign Sigurdsson, at around 7/1, West Ham can offer him a relatively easy transition from Swansea. Whether Bilic can take the initiative is quite another matter.

There’s no doubt that West Ham need reinforcements in the summer, no matter who their manager may be. One area that certainly needs strengthening is attack. Several players have been linked in recent weeks. We take a look at three of the latest, and how realistic a move for them could be.

1 - Alvaro Morata

West Ham have approached Real Madrid and made an enquiry as to the availability of striker Alvaro Morata according to Don Balon. He was brought back to Madrid from Juventus but despite good goalscoring form, he has not been given the game time that he wants and perhaps deserves. With interest in Monaco’s Mbappe, Madrid could well be open to selling Morata this summer - but would West Ham have a realistic chance of signing him, or would it be a waste of time? Reports suggest he would cost in excess of £50million and demands in excess of £100,000 per week. Add that to the fact that clubs with European football are interested and it looks extremely unlikely that West Ham would be able to tempt Morata to the club. Especially with the way this season is finishing.

Despite the money Jose Mourinho has spent in his first season at Manchester United, his team still look a long way from title challengers. A long unbeaten run in the league has papered over cracks in all honesty, with several home draws in recent weeks frustrating the fans.

Instead of battling for the title, United now find themselves in a struggle to finish in the top four. There’s a very real possibility that they will miss out on Champions League football again. The United attack is ageing and is struggling to make the difference week in week out. Wayne Rooney and Zlatan Ibrahimovic could leave the club this summer, and that would free up significant funds for United to go and invest in new attacking midfielders and forwards. We take a look at 3 top quality players United could bring in with an investment of around £200million…

1 - Robert Lewandowski

According to DonBalon, a Spanish source, Mourinho may not choose to extend the contract of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, or at least, he may look to sign a new first-choice striker. According to the same report, Lewandowski of Bayern Munich tops the list. I don’t need to write about what type of player he is, or his statistics in recent years, it goes without saying that adding him to the team would be a significant improvement.

Convincing Munich to sell will not be easy. They have no obvious back up to Lewandowski, and world class strikers are hard to find on the market. A bid in excess of £60million would surely be needed to convince the German’s to part way with the deadly Polish striker.

Manchester United are eyeing big changes this summer and it’s likely that Jose Mourinho will splash the cash heavily once again, despite the astronomical figure spent last summer.

The Red Devils have been linked with a host of top-class players ahead of the upcoming transfer window but a new name has now been thrown into the mix, as Don Balon state Mourinho is eyeing a swoop for Bayern Munich ace Robert Lewandowski.

United’s interest comes amidst growing concerns on Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s future at Old Trafford, as the veteran striker has consistently been linked with an exit despite only arriving on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain less than a year ago.

With prime target Antoine Griezmann regularly knocking back claims he will leave Atletico Madrid for a switch to the Premier League, Mourinho has been forced to identify alternative options and Lewandowski tops his short-list.

Would Lewandowski move?

Manchester United would have to pay an astonishing sum to land Robert Lewandowski from Bayern Munich but they have no problem with paying high prices, as shown last summer by their £89m capture of Paul Pogba.

However, the Red Devils would have to secure Champions League football to bring the Polish striker to the Premier League, as he’s determined to continue playing at the highest level, and the Red Devils chances of securing a top-four finish look bleak. That said, a place in Europe’s elite competition could come with success in the Europa League.

As for Bayern, the Bavarian giants are aware they cannot compete with the prices of the Premier League and a sale of Lewandowski would hand them ample funds to find the right sort of replacement, although filling the gap left by the former Borussia Dortmund man wouldn’t be easy.

Will Ibrahimovic leave?

Manchester United are keen to keep Ibrahimovic at Old Trafford, following his tremendous performances in his debut season in English football, but the Swede has had his head turned by offers elsewhere- with one of the most recent reports suggesting he’ll join LA Galaxy.

A return to Italy to join Napoli has also been highly discussed by his agent Mino Raiola and the Swedish striker could seek a fresh challenge, especially as he aspires to be the star-man in the squad and that may not be possible if the signature of a player like Griezmann was to be secured.

Chelsea boss Antonio Conte is not resting on his laurels this summer and is expected to go big in the transfer market to help establish the Blues as contenders for Champions League glory.

Whilst his West London side have stood as the frontrunners in the Premier League title chase throughout the season, and look set to win their second league trophy in three years, the squad at Conte’s disposal does need improving in particular areas.

Conte is determined to boost his options in attack, with Diego Costa struggling for form since the new year and facing question marks on his own future, and it seems a major deal is edging towards completion- and it could be a club-record deal.

Quoted by Metro, Italian journalist Massimo Marianello told Sky Italia that Romelu Lukaku’s return to Stamford Bridge is almost complete.

What was said?

‘I think many big players will join Chelsea in the summer as Conte wants the Blues to become credible contenders for the Champions League win,’

‘I can say Lukaku’s Chelsea move is almost done deal and reports in England claim Alexis Sanchez will also play for Chelsea next season. Many other players could also arrive [at Chelsea].’

Will it happen?

Romelu Lukaku made it clear he would not extend his deal at Goodison Park but he has spoken recently about his desire to make history with the Toffees. However, the Belgian is unlikely to stay if a lucrative offer comes in.

Everton, for there part, don’t want to sell but a reported price-tag of around £70m would be extremely difficult to turn down and would allow Ronald Koeman to have plenty of room to recruit in the transfer market.

Incidentally, a figure that high would also set a club-record fee for Chelsea, surpassing the £50m they paid Liverpool for Fernando Torres, and would stand as one of the highest fees in Premier League history- although still a way off the £89m Manchester United paid for Paul Pogba.

Arsene Wenger has suggested that the best players in the world are coming from France, with that in mind, if he is still the manager of Arsenal in the summer, who should he sign?

We take a look at 5 internationals that Arsenal should be in the market for…

1 - Kingsley Coman

The 20-year-old has had a fantastic start to his career and is widely regarded as one of the best young wide players in the world. He’s a fantastic talent but he is only being used sparingly by Carlo Ancelotti, leading many to believe he could be available this summer, despite Bayern having an option to buy. Coman has the right to refuse a move to Bayern, even if they activate the clause. According to Telefoot in France, Arsenal have made an enquiry. Coman would more than likely come in and play on the left wing, possibly as a replacement for Alexis Sanchez.

Manchester United’s transfer charge this summer could see them eye a move closer to home, with a sensational report being reported in South America.

As reported by Metro, Chile’s ‘El Show de Prensafutbol’ claims that Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho has contacted Alexis Sanchez over the phone to try and persuade the 28-year-old to move to Old Trafford this summer.

Two-time Copa America winner Alexis is facing an uncertain future in North London, as he rapidly approaches the final 12 months of his contract with no progress of an extension being made- and reports widely suggest he’ll move on this summer.

Whilst there is a wealth of interest in the Premier League, Arsenal would naturally prefer to sell their star-man to a side elsewhere in Europe- although that could be difficult if Alexis decides he wants to stay within English football.

How likely is a deal?

As mentioned, Arsenal will be determined not to sell to a direct rival and will likely block any move for Alexis Sanchez to Manchester United. On top of that though, it’s difficult to see where exactly Alexis Sanchez would fit-in at Old Trafford.

Mourinho’s side already boast the talents of Anthony Martial, Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Jesse Lingard out wide, whilst Marcus Rashford has often been deployed on the wings this season and the Red Devils have been heavily linked with a move for Antoine Griezmann, who could also be deployed out-wide if United stick with their current formation.

Money is not a problem for the Red Devils though and Arsenal would likely earn a club-record sum for the sale of Alexis Sanchez, although it may not be worth it if the South American starlet was to wear the colours of United on a weekly basis.

Who else is keen?

The report also mentions interest from Manchester City, as it states Pep Guardiola has also held talks with Alexis Sanchez. On top of that, Chelsea are also heavily interested in the services of the South American- but Arsenal will still attempt to block any transfer to a Premier League rival.

Elsewhere in Europe, Serie A leaders Juventus are keen on bringing the former Udinese man back to Italian football, whilst oil-rich Paris Saint-Germain want to make the Chilean their star signing- having failed to replace Zlatan Ibrahimovic last summer.

There has also been talk of a potential move to Bayern Munich, where Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery are approaching the end of their careers, whilst a reunion with Jorge Sampaoli at Sevilla has also been mentioned- although the former Chile boss is unlikely to remain at the Andalusian side for too long, having been linked with Barcelona.

Jaap Stam has been linked with a move to West Ham this summer, with uncertainty growing over the future of Slaven Bilic at the club. Whilst West Ham have publically backed Bilic, poor results for the rest of the season would surely give the club no choice but to look at other managers.

Here’s a look at how the Hammers could line-up under Stam, who is having a fantastic season at Reading currently.

GK - Darren Randolph

Randolph has worked his way into the West Ham team ahead of Adrian and in my opinion, will keep his place in the West Ham team next season. He’s earned the right to play a full season as the Hammers keeper. He’s had some games to forget (Man City), but also some to remember (vs. Southampton and Bournemouth). West Ham would be better off spending their budget on other areas of the pitch and leave Adrian to compete with Randolph for the goalkeeper spot.

Manchester United have a lot of work to do under Jose Mourinho this summer and the Portuguese boss is preparing for another flurry of transfer window activity.

Amidst all the deals that could bring fresh faces to Old Trafford, Manchester United will also be wary of losing key assists to other top sides in Europe- and goalkeeper David De Gea is one player in particular they’ll have to fend off interest in.

The Spaniard continues to attract a wealth of interest from Zinedine Zidane’s Real Madrid but United have a back-up plan if he does seal a move to the Santiago Bernabeu, with The Manchester Evening News stating Jan Oblak is keen on a switch to the Premier League giants.

Conceding just 18 goals in La Liga last season, 24-year-old Oblak is widely regarded to be one of the best goalkeepers in the world but Manchester United would have to face a huge sum to land his signature- likely one that would eclipse the world-record fee paid for a goalkeeper, which currently stands at the £33m Juventus paid for Gianluigi Buffon in 2001.

Money is not a problem for United though and the comments from a source close to the player will give the Red Devils a real boost if they elect to pursue Oblak’s signature.

What’s been said?

A source told The Manchester Evening News:

“I think for every player it is an honour to come to the UK and play for clubs like this one. A lot of top clubs from Europe wants the best goalkeeper in the world. In the UK, there are three of them who show an interest regarding Jan Oblak.”

“If De Gea goes back to Spain, everything is possible.”

How expensive would a deal be?

With a release-clause of £85m, and with Atletico Madrid having no intention to sell, securing Jan Oblak’s signature may be difficult. However, Atleti are set for a summer of change as they leave the Vicente Calderon and they could lose the services of key-men like Antoine Griezmann.

Oblak is close to both Griezmann and Jose Gimenez, both of whom have been linked with a move to Manchester United, and he may feel this summer is the right time to leave Atletico- with Real Madrid and Barcelona halting their rise in Spanish football.

On the continent, Atletico are going strong and are set to face Leicester City in the quarter-finals of the Champions League but the Spaniards have lost in the final in two of the last three seasons, so Oblak may feel his best chance of continental glory lies elsewhere.

That said, Manchester United may not be able to offer Champions League football and that could throw a spanner in the works of any potential deal.

Arsenal face a difficult summer ahead of them as the Gunners risk missing out on Champions League football, whilst there could also be a wealth of departures from the first-team.

Amongst the stars tipped to move away from the Emirates Stadium this summer is two-time Copa America winner Alexis Sanchez, who is rapidly approaching the final 12 months of his contract with the Gunners and seems increasingly unlikely to pen a new deal.

His situation has attracted a wealth of interest in his services and French outlet RMC Sport has stated Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain have opened negotiations with the Chilean, whilst The Daily Telegraph adds Alexis would prefer a move to Stamford Bridge.

Naturally, Arsenal would prefer not to sell to a Premier League rival but Alexis’ contract situation does not put them in a strong bargaining position and any reluctance to sell could leave the door open for the 28-year-old to leave on a free transfer next summer.

Who leads the battle?

As mentioned, Chelsea are keen to bring Alexis Sanchez across London and the Chilean prefers a move to Stamford Bridge. However, the Blues’ strong rivalry with Arsenal makes a deal unlikely- and the same can be said for Manchester City.

In Europe, the likes of Juventus, Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Milan have been linked with the Chilean’s signature, whilst there has also been a mention of interest from Sevilla, but Alexis’ likely demands for Champions League football could rule Inter out of the race.

That would leave Juventus and PSG as the big-hitters for Alexis’ signature and a move to the French capital would seem more likely, as the oil-rich club have far more weight to throw about in the transfer market than their Turin counterparts.

Is there any chance of Alexis staying?

Alexis Sanchez could still stay at Arsenal but his decision is unlikely to come down to money and will instead to built around what he believes he can achieve with a transfer. If he were to stay in North London, Arsenal would need to show significant improvements.

Finishing the season strongly would be unlikely to be enough to convince Alexis to stay and they’d have to show the Chilean they’re determined to turn things around- which could involve a major squad overhaul, replacing Arsene Wenger or going all-out in the transfer market.

Arsenal spent over £110m last summer but don’t have too much to show for it performance wise, so any persuasion on the transfer front would likely come from the calibre of players signed rather than the money spent.

Liverpool have made good progress under the guidance of Jurgen Klopp but there is still a lot of work to be done if the Reds are to end their long wait for league glory.

Klopp’s side are likely to be very active in the transfer market this summer and the Reds are eyeing top-quality youngsters to bolster their ranks, with a specific focus on midfielders. Having seen long-term target Mahmoud Dahoud seal a move to Borussia Dortmund, the Merseyside outfit will be keen to identify an alternative option.

The Reds will have therefore been worried by suggestions that Julian Brandt had agreed a move from Bayer Leverkusen to Bayern Munich but The Liverpool Echo reports that the German ace’s father has denied such an agreement exists, leaving the Reds still pursuing a deal.

A clause in Brandt’s contract indicates he can move for just €12.5m in the summer of 2018 but his father, who also acts as his agent, disputed the claim that a deal worth that figure was in place for the upcoming summer window.

What was said?

Speaking to Kicker and quoted by The Liverpool Echo, Jurgen Brandt said:

“It is fake news that Julian has agreed terms with Bayern. Julian has never been in the situation where he had to - or wanted to - make a decision on his future.”

However, he did admit interest in his client was high. In comments made to Sky Deutchsland, he said:

“There isn’t any trend nor any agreement. Julian will speak to Leverkusen about the season and his future in the summer. There have been enquiries from Bayern as well as others - but only to me. I collect these but there’s nothing concrete yet.”

“Julian hasn’t made any decision as to his future yet. He hasn’t spoken with any of those responsible at Bayern such as (Karl-Heinz) Rummenigge, (Uli) Hoeness or (Michael) Reschke, nor has he spoken to (Carlo) Ancelotti.”

Can Liverpool do a deal?

Regardless of whether a deal with Bayern Munich has been agreed yet, Liverpool will still face a huge test to land Brandt’s signature- especially as German players have a strong record of making transfers to other Bundesliga sides.

With Bayern Munich also losing the services of veteran midfielder Xabi Alonso this summer to retirement, the Bavarian giants have a hole in their midfield to fill and Brandt could be the ideal fit. Moving to the Allianz Arena could also bolster his chances of making Germany’s World Cup squad next summer and that may play into a decision.

For Liverpool, securing a Champions League finish will be decisive to any hope they have of landing Brandt’s signature and Jurgen Klopp will have a lot of work to do to demonstrate Liverpool are a side capable of going toe-to-toe with Europe’s elite.

Arsenal and Manchester United could look to swoop and secure the signature of a Leicester City ace this summer, with the Foxes fearful they’ll have to fend-off interest in their midfielder.

Wilfred Ndidi only arrived at the King Power Stadium in January, for a fee around £17m, but the Foxes are concerned he could jump ship in the summer as both Arsenal and Manchester United eye a move, as reported by The Daily Mirror.

Signed by the Foxes to fill the void left by N’Golo Kante’s summer move to Premier League leaders Chelsea, Ndidi has impressed and the 20-year-old, who snubbed interest from Arsenal last summer, could find himself on the move again.

Where would he fit in?

Both Manchester United and Arsenal are seeking midfield improvements this summer and both Premier League giants face the prospect of replacing long-serving members of their squad in the not-too-distant future.

The Red Devils are likely to wave goodbye to Michael Carrick at the end of the season and need a combative midfielder to fill that void, whilst Arsenal continue to seek a long-term replacement for Santi Cazorla.

Whilst Ndidi isn’t comparable to Cazorla, the Gunners would certainly benefit from additional strength in the midfield and a partnership alongside Granit Xhaka could give the North London side the catalyst to build success upon.

Could he stay?

Having only recently signed for Leicester, he could elect to stay with the Foxes. However, the defending Premier League champions face an uncertain future after slipping down the table this season and it’s unclear where their long-term status lies.

Nigerian ace Ndidi, who has been capped six times by his national side, will have aspirations of representing the African team in next summer’s World Cup but his nation still face a battle to get through the qualifying stages- although they’ve taken maximum points from their two matches in Round 3 so far.

Should Ndidi seal a move and play in European competition, his chances of making Nigeria’s squad would be significantly boosted and that could play into any decision he makes.

The best golf tournament of the year gets underway this week with the green jacket the coveted prize. The Masters always draws the biggest names and past Champion Jordan Spieth along with Rory McIlroy and Lee Westwood make up a great 50/1 treble chance offer from one of the top golf betting bookies’ Bet on Brazil.

Arsenal are set for major changes this summer and a host of big-names could leave the Emirates Stadium amongst a squad overhaul.

Whilst the Gunners have been public in their desire to keep 25-year-old Jack Wilshere, the England international is rapidly approaching the final 12 months of his contract and is seeking first-team assurances before he puts pen-to-paper on an extension.

Having struggled during recent years with a wealth of injury problems, Wilshere has impressed on-loan with Bournemouth and Cherries boss Eddie Howe has confirmed he’d like to sign the midfielder on a permanent deal this summer.

However, interest in the Arsenal academy graduate is high and Wilshere’s signature this summer could fetch a premium price.

What’s been said?

Quoted by The Telegraph, Howe said after the weekend’s goalless draw with Southampton:

“I’ve always said we would love to sign him. But that decision will rest with Arsenal. He’s played so many games. This is just a little spell where he’s been out of the team but he’s still coming on to great effect.”

Is Bournemouth the right fit?

Jack Wilshere may have found his feet in Bournemouth but moving to the Cherries on a permanent basis could effect his chances of making the England squad next summer, where Wilshere will aim to represent the Three Lions at the World Cup.

Moving to a bigger side may end up being the best course of action for Wilshere and he has options ahead of him, with The Sun stating this weekend that West Ham will offer £30m to Arsenal and give the midfielder the opportunity of remaining in London.

Wilshere could also have the option to move abroad, with The Daily Mail stating last month he’s open to a move to AC Milan- where he’d follow in the footsteps of former England captain David Beckham, who spent successful loan spells in Italy with the club.

Liverpool have a lot of work to do this summer and Jurgen Klopp is set to clear out the deadwood at Anfield, which could prove to be useful for other sides in the Premier League.

One of the players likely to be shipped out at the end of the season is French defender Mamadou Sakho, who has impressed since January after joining Premier League strugglers Crystal Palace on-loan until the end of the season.

The Independent now states the Eagles will push for the permanent signing of Sakho this summer but risk losing out in the market following the defender’s fine performances, which are likely to have raised his value and Liverpool’s asking price.

Crystal Palace boss Sam Allardyce confirmed at the weekend he’ll look to sign Sakho permanently, following the Eagles surprise 2-1 victory over Premier League leaders Chelsea, but reports indicate Sakho’s services could fetch as much as £25m.

What’s been said?

Speaking after the victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, Sam Allardyce said:

“Securing our Premier League status is our priority, and then we’ll see what Mamadou’s aspirations are, to be with us or anywhere else. His future doesn’t look as if it is at Liverpool. He’s enjoying his football and his life here. He’s brought that resilience to the team by leading by example.”

“He’s taking a commanding role in his performance and the information he’s giving out on the field. That has helped with our defensive resilience: one goal conceded in four games.”

Will he join Palace?

Sakho has excelled since joining Crystal Palace, winning all four of his matches with the Eagles thus far, and his performances have attracted interest from Italian sides and Southampton- which means Crystal Palace could easily be priced out of a deal.

For the player himself, staying in an area where he feels settled may be decisive but Sakho will also hold aspirations of forcing his way into France’s squad for the World Cup next summer- having missed Euro 2016 following a drugs ban, which was later overturned.

Sakho missed out on the latest international squad and hasn’t made the squad since last summer, with the 27-year-old now facing competition with the likes of Samuel Umtiti, Aymeric Laporte, Raphael Varane and Laurent Koscielny for a spot in France’s starting line-up.

A Brazilian midfielder is dreaming of playing for Manchester United next season, and everyone is wondering if he could be the next Paul Pogba.

Pereira has been a youth player at United since 2011. Now aged 21, he is ready to make the step up into the first team and follow in the footsteps of Jese Lingard.

Pereira has impressed on loan at Spanish side Granada this season and if United are not willing to give him regular game time, he is likely to have a number of suitors elsewhere.

Mourinho doesn’t have the best record in bringing young players through to the first team, but in Pereira he will want to make sure the club do not make the same expensive mistake that they did with Pogba.

“I’m playing well,” Pereira told ManUtd.com. “I’m trying to do my job and am getting a lot of minutes. For me, it’s been very good playing here at a high level in Spain, in La Liga, every week.

“I get to train and focus hard for the games and, for me, it’s been very good. Unfortunately for the team, it’s been a bit difficult this season but we’re trying to get out of this situation as quickly as possible.”

Liverpool have a lot of work to do this summer if they’re to establish themselves as contenders for Premier League glory and Jurgen Klopp is eyeing a host of top names in a summer spree.

The Daily Mirror says the Reds are preparing to rival Tottenham Hotspur and Everton in the transfer market for the services of Schalke ace Max Meyer, with the German international tipped to move on after the Bundesliga outfit’s poor campaign.

21-year-old Meyer, who has four senior appearances for Germany, will be keen to push his way into Joachim Lowe’s World Cup squad next summer and a move away from Schalke could be decisive- as the German side sit ninth in the table, a long way off European football.

Meyer will want to be playing at the highest level to boost his chances of making the squad and Liverpool are prepared to offer than opportunity, with the Reds pursuing a cut-price deal that would cost a fraction of the £45m Schalke wanted last summer.

Will Meyer be on the move?

It’s highly-likely that Max Meyer’s services will be there to scrap for this summer, as the German ace will enter the final 12 months of his contract- and Schalke have recently admitted it’s 50/50 as to whether their youngster stays or goes.

If Meyer does not extend his deal with the German outfit, his services could be available for as little as £17m as Schalke would be forced to consider a cut-price deal rather than risk losing the 21-year-old’s services for free at the end of next season.

For that price-tag though, a wealth of top-sides across Europe will be put on alert and any interested party, including Liverpool, will face a battle to land the services of the German ace.

Where would Meyer fit in at Liverpool?

The biggest question for Liverpool is where exactly Max Meyer would fit into Jurgen Klopp’s set-up. An attacking midfielder by trade, Meyer would find himself competing with the likes of Philippe Coutinho, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane for a starting spot.

However, with Coutinho’s future at Anfield remaining under scrutiny, Meyer could be seen as a direct replacement for the Brazilian and a sale of Coutinho would still leave plenty of cash to spend after the potential arrival of Meyer.

Given the interest in Meyer’s services though, a top-four finish is likely to be crucial in Liverpool’s attempts to persuade the German ace to move to Anfield though as rival clubs in the market would be able to offer Champions League football.

Arsenal and Liverpool both have work to do in the summer transfer window to make their squads capable of pushing for Premier League glory and the two English giants are set to square off in the transfer market.

Spanish outlet Don Balon state the two Premier League outfits are rivalling the likes of Juventus and Sevilla for the services of Real Madrid’s attacking midfielder Marco Asensio, with The Daily Star adding the Spaniard is valued at a hefty £40m.

Asensio has made a positive impression in Zinedine Zidane’s side this season after excelling on-loan with Espanyol last term, where he made 34 appearances, and he’s since gone on to claim 23 appearances for Los Blancos across all competitions.

Real Madrid, and chairman Florentino Perez in particular, value the youngster extremely highly but both Arsenal and Liverpool could test their resolve in the summer transfer window.

Who needs him more?

Liverpool’s attacking ranks already look well stocked by Marco Asensio could give Jurgen Klopp an alternative option in that earlier, whilst the Spaniard could also adopt a more deeper role to partner captain Jordan Henderson in midfield.

Arsenal, on the other hand, face the prospect of losing Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez this summer, with the Gunners potentially seeing Asensio as a replacement for either of the duo, or they could also use him in a deeper role and establish the 21-year-old as a long-term successor to Santi Cazorla.

However Asensio, who has been capped twice by Spain’s national side, will be keen to ensure any club he joins has Champions League football to offer as he seeks to establish himself in Julen Lopetegui’s squad for the 2018 World Cup.

Will he be sold?

Real Madrid’s midfield ranks are well stocked with talent and that competition for places means that Asensio could be tempted by the offer of guaranteed first-team football. However, Real Madrid will dig their heels in and will seek to block any move.

Asensio could establish himself in Real Madrid’s starting line-up in the long-term too as speculation persists that suggests both James Rodriguez and Isco will leave the Santiago Bernabeu this summer, which would significantly reduce the competition for places that Asensio faces.

On top of that, midfield stalwart Luka Modric turns 32 in September and Real Madrid will be keen to ensure they have a ready made replacement for the Croatian, which is something Asensio can be for the Spanish giants.

Chelsea have excelled in the Premier League this season but Antonio Conte is ready to shuffle his deck during the summer window to ensure his side remain competitive next term.

With Diego Costa’s future remaining under scrutiny, Antonio Conte is likely to enter the transfer market for a new striker as the Blues could lose the services of their Spanish forward, whilst Michy Batshuayi has failed to impress following his move from Marseille last summer.

The Sun states Chelsea are prepared to splash as much as £70m on a new striker but are debating whether to bring Romelu Lukaku back to Stamford Bridge or push to land Alvaro Morata’s signature, with the Spaniard frustrated with a lack of game time with Real Madrid.

Belgian ace Lukaku has refused to pen an extended deal with Everton and is expected to be a big mover this summer, whilst Morata is also likely to be on the market after failing to establish himself in Zinedine Zidane’s plans following his return to Madrid from Juventus last summer.

Who’d be the better fit?

With Romelu Lukaku already well established in the Premier League and having previous links to Chelsea, the Belgian striker could be the perfect fit into Antonio Conte’s side and his physical presence is comparable to that of Diego Costa.

However, Alvaro Morata would likely be significantly less expensive and is keen to prove himself ahead of the World Cup next summer. Taking that into consideration, many may feel that the Spaniard presents the best solution for Chelsea.

Signing Lukaku would be a real statement of intent from the Blues though, as they’d have to spend a club-record on their former striker, and it would show they’re happy to go toe-to-toe with both Manchester clubs in the transfer market.

Which deal is more likely?

Whilst Romelu Lukaku is pushing for an exit from Goodison Park, Everton have a decent standing in negotiations as the Belgian striker is still penned down to a contract and boss Ronald Koeman is keen to dig his heels in and prevent a summer sale.

Pushing for Lukaku’s signature will likely be a long, drawn out process and Chelsea may prefer to swoop for Morata, as a deal for the Spaniard would be easier to complete. However, negotiating with Real Madrid could result in Los Blancos pushing to land the links of Thibaut Courtois or Eden Hazard in return.

All in all, there’s no simple solution to Chelsea’s search for a new striker but they’re likely to have cash in hand to spend, as Costa is expected to seal a lucrative transfer away from Stamford Bridge and that sale will boost Conte’s spending money.

Everton have improved significantly under the guidance of Ronald Koeman this season but the Dutchman is aware he has work to do to ensure the Toffees remain competitive.

With an ageing defence, Ronald Koeman is keen to freshen up his defensive ranks this summer by seeking the signature of new signings and The Liverpool Echo states the Dutchman’s head has been turned by Hull City’s Harry Maguire.

24-year-old Maguire has impressed this season for the struggling Tigers, with his stellar performances including keeping Romelu Lukaku quiet at Goodison Park until his side were reduced to ten-men, as well as frustrating Manchester United in a goalless draw.

Maguire has been touted as a potential choice for Gareth Southgate’s England squad and a move to Everton would significantly booster his chances, whilst Koeman believes the right signings this summer could see the Toffees push into the top-four.

Why Maguire?

Harry Maguire is just one of the names being discussed by Everton’s hierarchy ahead of the summer transfer window, with the Toffees also keen on Burnley’s Michael Keane, but a significant shake-up to the back-line is expected this summer.

Phil Jagielka turns 35 this summer and has been in-and-out of the line-up this season, whilst Ramiro Funes Mori sees his future shrouded in speculation too. On top of that, first-choice man Ashley Williams turns 33 this summer and doesn’t have many years left in the tank.

With a signing like Maguire, Everton could get years of service from the England ace- just like they’ve done with Jagielka and Leighton Baines, both of whom signed in 2007 and have represented the Merseyside outfit valiantly for the past decade.

Will Hull sell?

Hull City’s position in the table doesn’t give them a strong standing point in negotiations and their chances of keeping Maguire will look minimal if the Tigers are to be relegated. Whilst Marco Silva has improved the club’s fortunes, Hull still sit in the relegation zone and are three points behind Swansea City- whilst Middlesbrough and Sunderland below them have a game in hand.

Even if Hull survive the threat of relegation, Maguire would not be blamed if he was to push for an exit and Everton would be the ideal stepping stone for the youngster, as the guidance of a world-class manager like Koeman would be superb.

Learning from the likes of Ashley Williams and Leighton Baines would also be beneficial, whilst Maguire would join a side breaming with young talent and one that has a great future there for the taking.

Manchester United were the biggest spenders in the Premier League last summer and the Red Devils are ready to splash the cash again at the end of the season.

The Sun states Jose Mourinho’s side have set their sights on Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Eric Dier, as they see as the ideal successor to Michael Carrick in the heart of the Red Devils midfield- with Carrick himself being a former Spurs man.

Carrick, now 35, is likely to leave this summer and, despite Daniel Levy being a shrewd negotiator, United are ready to spend big to bring Dier into their side- in a deal for the England international that could be worth in excess of £40m.

United have always prided themselves with boasting some of the best English talent and seeing a wealth of their stars represent the Three Lions at international level but Spurs now seem to have the advantage in this aspect, as they boast the likes of Dier, Harry Kane, Danny Rose, Kyle Walker and Dele Alli.

Where would Dier fit in?

Dier would slot into Michael Carrick’s role in central midfield, likely partnering Ander Herrera in a deep role and allowing Paul Pogba to become more effective in attack. With the likes of Anthony Martial and Henrikh Mkhitaryan supporting out wide, United’s side would look set for success.

The player himself may be tempted at a move too as first-team opportunities are not guaranteed at White Hart Lane and he continues to find himself used defensively rather than in midfield, where Mauricio Pochettino has preferred the likes of Victor Wanyama and Mousa Dembele.

Dier would also command a hefty pay-hike if he was to move to the North West of England and would follow in Carrick’s footsteps by switching North London for Merseyside, treading the path that has been laid out by the likes of Dimitar Berbatov and Teddy Sheringham.

Would Spurs consider a sale?

Tottenham do not want to lose their prized assets but their focus will probably remain on keeping the likes of Kane, Alli, Walker and Rose at the club, so they may see Dier as expendable given his position in the squad- especially if new faces are brought in.

That doesn’t mean they’ll let Dier leave on the cheap though but a lucrative offer would certainly be worth considering, especially as it would see Spurs handed some funds to improve their squad in certain areas and push towards Premier League glory.

In fact, selling Dier may end up working out well for Spurs, providing they spend the money they receive wisely, but the fact that it would also significantly strengthen United would also be a concern.

Arsenal may have to face another summer of key players leaving this year as Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez continue to be linked with an exit.

The worst thing possible would be to see another key Arsenal player go to Manchester United - following in the footsteps of Robin van Persie. That was heartbreaking for every Arsenal fan and to see something similar happen again with Ozil would just really make the club seem 2nd rate.

Ozil, whilst not in his best form at the moment, is a world class player and the Gunners cannot afford to let go of him as they lack players of that calibre throughout the squad. Wenger, or whoever the manager is next season, needs to keep Ozil and restructure the team to make them play in a way that gets the best out of Mesut and the club’s other key players.

Who will Ozil bench if he insists on joining Man Utd? Maybe Fellaini who lives on the bench

— Berry (@sirberry) March 13, 2017

Also linked with a move to a Premier League rival is Alexis Sanchez. The little Chilean has stirred the rumour cauldron by suggesting that he wanted to remain in London, but ‘play for winners’. That seemed to be a dig at Arsenal, by suggesting they were not winners, but also a nod to Chelsea to suggest that he would like to play for them.

The quotes from Alexis come exactly a day after the Guardian reported that he is Antonio Conte and Chelsea’s number one transfer target for the summer. Arsene Wenger would surely be very reluctant to sell to a Premier League rival, but it appears that the player may force a move.

Here’s some reaction to the Alexis rumours…

If Alexis joins Chelsea I'll kidnap him, lock him in a room and make him watch Marley & Me forever.

— Gunnervision (@Gunner_vision) March 29, 2017

Considering we're financially stable, key players departing should be a rarity, let alone to rivals. Can't allow Alexis to join Chelsea #AFC

— Patrick Timmons (@PatrickTimmons1) March 29, 2017

If Arsenal let Alexis go to Chelsea then I'm finished with this club.

— TikiTakaConnor (@TikiTakaConnor) March 29, 2017

If Wenger signs a new deal and then the club authorise the sale of Alexis to Chelsea, you can expect an all out war in the fan base!

— Mr DT © (@MrDtAFC) March 28, 2017

Alexis going to Chelsea will hurt more than RVP

— Ö👑 (@MesutEra) March 28, 2017

With the likes of PSG, Bayern Munich and Juventus interested in the duo, Arsenal need to ensure they sell abroad rather than letting their stars join Premier League rivals. Letting either Ozil go to Manchester United or Alexis go to Chelsea would be terrible for Arsene Wenger’s reputation and Arsenal globally as a football club. The Gunners currently look a level below the rest of the playing field and letting their best players join Premier League rival surely just cements that status.

Arsenal and Manchester United are currently falling short of their objective to seal a top-four spot in the Premier League and major changes will occur for both sides this summer.

Jose Mourinho has shown he’s not afraid to splash the cash at Old Trafford and will open his wallet once again this summer, whilst Arsenal will seek a big overhaul as they look to improve on what has been a disappointing campaign.

Italian outlet Il Mattino suggests the two Premier League giants will fight it out this summer for the services of Villarreal winger Samuel Castillejo, following the 22-year-old’s excellent performances for the Yellow Submarines this season.

Valued at around £35m, Castillejo is set to attract vast interest in the summer window and a move to the Premier League could materialise.

Do United need Castillejo?

Honestly, no. The Red Devils already boast Anthony Martial and Henrikh Mkhitaryan as top-class wide players within their squad, whilst the likes of Marcus Rashford and Jesse Lingard are also options for Jose Mourinho’s side.

With widespread reports suggesting they’ll add Antoine Griezmann to their attacking ranks this summer, it’s incredibly difficult to see where exactly Castillejo would fit in at Old Trafford. If he were to be signed, then it would raise significant questions on the futures of players already within their squad.

Mourinho wouldn’t exactly be your first choice for a manager to get the best out of a youngster too, as shown by his handling of Luke Shaw this season.

What about Arsenal?

Whilst Arsenal’s wide ranks are equally well stocked, the Gunners face uncertainty on the futures of Alexis Sanchez, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Lucas Perez- which could leave the North London outfit with big holes to fill.

Castillejo could potentially replace Alexis, though he’s more accustomed to a role on the right, although that would allow Alex Iwobi to continue on the left and Theo Walcott to move into the central role he craves.

The Gunners also have strong ties in Spain and could utilise their former Malaga men to bring Castillejo to the club, as the Spaniard started his career with the La Liga side, with veterans Santi Cazorla and Nacho Monreal also boasting Malaga as previous employers on their CV’s.

Cazorla, incidentally, has also represented Villarreal, as has defender Gabriel Paulista.

Chelsea have stormed to Premier League success this season but Antonio Conte will have work to do in the summer, with the Italian boss being aware the challenges next season will be significantly harder.

The Blues have no doubt benefitted from a lack of European involvement this season and their return to the Champions League next season will give Conte’s squad plenty to do, as they seek to remain competitive across all fronts.

Movement on the transfer market will take place and Italian outlet TuttoSport suggests the Blues will look to use Diego Costa’s uncertain future at Stamford Bridge to their advantage, by offering the Spanish striker as make-weight in a deal for Paris Saint-Germain’s Javier Pastore.

27-year-old Pastore is a target for Conte in the summer and Costa, who pushed for a return to Atletico Madrid last summer and attracted vast interest from China in January, could be sacrificed to make a deal happen.

What would Pastore give Chelsea?

Chelsea’s side this season has been near-perfect in their push for Premier League glory but on paper the squad needs improving significantly, especially if they’re to go toe-to-toe with the big guns in the Champions League next season.

Pastore would likely partner N’Golo Kante in the middle of the park at Stamford Bridge, in front of Conte’s preferred three-man defence and with wing-backs supporting on either side. Pastore would add creativity to Chelsea’s deep midfield pair, without sacrificing the blanket offered to the defence.

In a 3-4-3 system, Pastore would become a crucial player for the Blues and a potential midfield partnership with Kante would give Conte’s men a real platform for success.

Will Costa leave this summer?

The likelihood is that Diego Costa will end his stay with the Blues at the end of the season, following two seasons shrouded with controversy. Last year, before Jose Mourinho lost his job, Costa struggled to perform to the required standard and only upped his performance levels at the back-end of the season.

This year, the Spaniard has returned to his best in front of goal but has hit a decline in form following a very public clash with Conte in January, which came after the former Atletico Madrid man had his head turned by interest from the Chinese Super League.

Chelsea will want a player that’s committed to their cause and pushed to sign Celtic ace Moussa Dembele in January, with the Blues likely to revive that interest at the end of the season.

Chelsea have excelled in the Premier League this season but face a fight to keep their star-men this summer, as Europe’s elite look to make a move in the transfer target.

Real Madrid continue to eye the services of Belgian ace Eden Hazard but The Sun states Chelsea are ready to fend-off the interest of the Spanish giants by handing their star-man a contract worth £300k-a-week; which would make Hazard the highest paid player in the Premier League.

Talks of a renewal were set to start at the end of the season but, given Real Madrid’s growing interest, the Blues have brought forward discussions as they aim to prevent Los Blancos from sealing a major transfer this summer.

Zinedine Zidane has been very public with his admiration for Hazard and many feel he’s the perfect long-term replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo, who has limited years left at the top of European football. Naturally though, Chelsea are desperate to keep him.

How important is Hazard?

Eden Hazard’s performances over the past three seasons for Chelsea have been mixed, as he was a key-part of their title-winning success under Jose Mourinho but performed poorly last term. This season though, Hazard is back to his best and is again proving to be a huge catalyst for the Blues’ success.

Keeping Hazard is crucial for the side’s set up but the most important factor is the message that it would send to their rivals, as it would show the Blues are capable of going toe-to-toe with both Manchester clubs to boast the best names.

By handing Hazard a Premier League record-deal, Chelsea would show their willingness to fight and match the spending from Manchester United and Manchester City. If he was to leave, Chelsea would find it hard to replace him and it would also issue a negative message.

Is Hazard worth it?

Hazard’s performances for Chelsea have made him a fan-favourite at Stamford Bridge but many do expect more from him and the Belgian can expect to receive further scrutiny if he was to command this record-breaking deal; as we’ve seen with Paul Pogba this season.

To be classed in the same calibre as the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, Hazard will need to find consistency and perform domestically as well as on the continent. Having only just turned 26 though, there’s plenty of time for him to adjust.

Securing this deal would allow Antonio Conte to continue building a side around the Belgian, which is likely to include the arrival of a new striker this summer as question-marks on the future of Diego Costa consider to be raised.

Tottenham Hotspur have come a long way under the guidance of Mauricio Pochettino and the Lilywhites are ready to bolster their ranks this summer to improve their chances of success.

TalkSport, reporting via German outlet Bild, states that Spurs are rivalling Atletico Madrid for the services of Hoffenheim ace Nadiem Amiri, who could be available for a cut-price fee as he’s entered the final 18 months of his current deal.

Hoffenheim have excelled in the Bundesliga this season, currently sat fourth and set to secure a place in the Champions League next season, but they may struggle to keep Amiri as interest from Europe’s elite clubs continues to rise.

Last year, Hoffenheim rejected a bid of £11m from German rivals RB Leipzeig for the 20-year-old but, given his contract situation, they’ll find it far more difficult to rebuff the interest of clubs this summer- especially if they come from a club like Spurs.

Who exactly is Amiri?

Since making his Bundesliga debut in February 2015, Amiri has established himself as one of the most exciting young attackers within German football and boasts 47 appearances to date; scoring five goals in the process.

Capped for German’s youth sides from U18 level all the way up to U21, where he has six appearances, Amiri is expected to push into the senior squad in the coming years and is further evidence to the spectacular depth of talent the World Cup champions boast.

Interest in his services is high and a transfer could occur this summer due to his contract situation, although it would be a risky move as he may not be guaranteed first-team assurances elsewhere.

Do Spurs need him?

With Pochettino’s side currently boasting the likes of Dele Alli, Eric Dier, Victor Wanyama, Mousa Dembele and others, Spurs’ need for a midfielder like Amiri isn’t desperate and the youngster would see a significant decrease in first-team football if he moved to White Hart Lane.

However, given his talents, Spurs would be unwise to let the opportunity pass them by and his signature would add to the abundance of young talent that the Lilywhites boast- putting the North London outfit in a strong position for the coming years.

A major pay-rise would be handed to Amiri in the Premier League but a decision is unlikely to be easy for the young German, who has plenty of things to consider.

Manchester United are set to go all out in the transfer market again this summer with Jose Mourinho preparing to set a world transfer record for the second summer in a row.

Following Paul Pogba’s £89m return to Manchester United from Juventus last summer, Spanish outlet Sport states the Red Devils are prepared to become the first side to break the £100m-mark in a transfer by activating Neymar’s sensational €200m release-clause.

It’s also claimed Mourinho’s side are ready to make the Brazilian one of the highest paid sportsmen in the world with a staggering wage of £416k-a-week, which would earn the South American an audacious sum of €25m per year.

However, Neymar is happy in Barcelona and doesn’t want to move to a side that is not guaranteed Champions League football next year- even if they are prepared to make him the highest-paid player in the Premier League.

Is he needed?

In short, no. Manchester United have recruited heavily in recent windows to bring the likes of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Anthony Martial, Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Paul Pogba to Old Trafford- as well as the unsuccessful transfers of Memphis Depay and Angel Di Maria, who swiftly moved on.

If reports are to be believed, then Antoine Griezmann will also be moving to the North West this summer and that doesn’t really leave much room for recruits in attack. If United are going to spend a tonne anywhere, the most obvious choice would be in defence.

Their back-line needs some serious improving if they are to mount a serious challenge for the biggest honours next season and beyond, as Eric Bailly and David De Gea are the only two players who stand out as genuine top quality- and question marks on the future of the latter still remain.

Should Neymar leave Barcelona?

Barcelona are set for a period of transition this summer as Luis Enrique steps down from his managerial role and leaves a side that is in need of vast changes- as the likes of veteran squad members like Javier Mascherano, Gerard Pique and Andres Iniesta need to be replaced.

In attack, Barcelona’s ‘MSN’ duo of Neymar, Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez is likely to stay intact and that means the Brazilian will remain part of the Catalan giants supporting cast. That said, with Messi turning 30 this summer and Suarez already reaching that age, the long-term future of the pair could lie elsewhere.

Once Messi and Suarez leave Neymar, who has only recently turned 25, will be the superstar of the Barcelona attack and the man that they build a new-look side around. Therefore, leaving for Manchester United at this time wouldn’t be a wise call.