BY WILLEM PIETRONIRO – FAN FUEL BLOGGER
As the European season is drawing to a conclusion, teams are already preparing to re-tool for next year. With financial fair play regulations a constant concern these days, some big players might be moved to finance these rebuilds. Here are the top five names to watch for this summer`s transfer window: Cristiano Ronaldo, Marouane Fellaini, Gareth Bale, Angel Di Maria and Edinson Cavani.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid) – After the surprise declaration of unhappiness and his reluctance to renew his contract with Real Madrid, it would seem that Ronaldo’s days with the club are numbered. The extra cash might help the club finance a rebuild, as Real Madrid will probably be looking for a new coach to step in as well. While many Manchester United fans would love to see a return to Old Trafford, PSG may be the favourites in this race, with lots of cash to spend.
2. Marouane Fellaini (Everton F.C.) – The towering and versatile midfielder has made a name for himself after arriving from Standard Liege in September 2008. While attracting some interest from big clubs earlier on in his career, this has been Fellaini’s breakout season with 10 goals and three assists in 21 appearances. England’s biggest have already started to knock at Everton’s door with Chelsea and Manchester City looking the favourites at the moment.
3. Gareth Bale (Tottenham Hotspur) – Easily one of the most prolific wingers in the game today, Bale has quickly developed into one of the most feared players in the world. Tottenham will do their best to hang on to their prized player but if they fall short of Champions League qualification, they may be forced to part ways. Real Madrid and Bayern Munich seem ready to pounce if Bale is moved.
4. Angel Di Maria (Real Madrid) – Also a winger, Di Maria has been an assist machine with 31 in his 80 appearances with Real Madrid. The club may look to move on from the player after the 2013 season, which has been a disaster, and use the money for new facelift. Real Madrid have reportedly already offered the player to PSG and Manchester United.
5. Edinson Cavani (S.S.C. Napoli) – With an incredible 67 goals in 89 appearances with Napoli, Cavani has developed into one of the best strikers in the world. It would take a large bid to pry him away but that has not discouraged the likes of PSG and Manchester City. If Cavani is moved, expect him to command a transfer fee upwards of £40 Million ($62.9 million) from potential suitors.
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