With our in-depth knowledge of the beautiful game, we take a long look at who has spent money over the summer. Here is a list of five deals that we think will shape this season of football.
1.) Dejan Lovren to Liverpool (undisclosed fee).
Last season, Lovren was part of a fantastic back-four that brought delight to the lives of most fantasy football enthusiasts. Lovren has his faults, but he’s an excellent communicator and exactly what Liverpool’s leaky defence needs. Martin Skrtel and Mamadou Sakho are both good defenders, but they need guidance and leadership. Scoring on his debut in a preseason friendly against Dortmund has excited Liverpool fans, particularly now that they expect their side to go far after finishing second last season. One game, one goal, one clean sheet; what more can you ask from a centre-back?
2.) Alexis Sanchez to Arsenal (around £30-35 million).
In Brazil, Sanchez guided his Chilean team through the group stage and into the round of 16, only losing on penalties to the host nation Brazil. He is undoubtedly one of the most threating attackers in modern football and Arsene Wegner’s success in luring him to North London is something that shouldn’t be overlooked. In the Community Shield, his pace and drive forward proved to be too much for City, helping Arsenal clinch a rather surprising 3-0 victory over the champions. Arsenal have a world-class player in Sanchez and, if Wegner can play him in the correct positions, should create and score plenty for Arsenal this season.
3.) Fraser Forster to Southampton (undisclosed)
Fraser Forster should begin to put some serious pressure on Joe Hart having finally earned a move to the Premier League. He’s been fantastic for Celtic over the past few seasons, particularly in the historic victory over Barcelona in 2012. The Premier League offers the Englishman a different challenge; one that we are sure he will revel in.
4.) Muhamed Besic to Everton (£4million)
One of the World Cup’s break out stars, Everton looked to have got a magnificent deal at just £4 million. He is quick, tireless and can pass. He appears to have all the qualities to dovetail delightfully with James McCarthy. Judging by some rash, rash tackles in Brazil, however, discipline may be a problem.
5.) Emre Can to Liverpool (£10 million)
At the tender age of 20, this German Midfielder has already been compared to the likes of Michael Ballack and Bastian Schweinsteiger. His physical prowess in the centre of the park makes him a formidable opponent for anyone. Although he is unlikely to play every week for Liverpool, the return of Champions League football at Anfield opens the door for the young German. With Gerard’s aging legs and Lucas’s injury problems, Can will have the chance to develop under Rogers.