The 2018 World Cup was one of the best World Cup editions in recent years. From the controversial yet effective VAR to great attacking football, it was a treat to watch.
While the likes of Spain and Germany crashed out early, France, Croatia and Belgium played scintillating football throughout. Post World Cup, football fans are glued to the next best thing i.e. the summer transfer window.
Several top clubs including Real Madrid love signing the best player from every World Cup, or the "flavours of the month". Several World Cup stars are expected to move following excellent World Cup campaigns. The likes of Eden Hazard and Kylian Mbappe have been linked with record-breaking deals.
The value of several World Cup stars has almost doubled after the tournament. Here we look at 4 World Cup stars who could secure big money transfers:
#4 Ante Rebic
Croatia's dream run to the 2018 World Cup final ended with a heartbreaking defeat to France. While Luka Modric won the Golden Ball and Ivan Perisic praised by critics, another player was essential to their excellent campaign.
Though Rebic managed just the single goal in the tournament, is overall contribution was invaluable. A versatile player, Rebic is capable of playing on the wings, as well as through the middle.
Rebic is known for his high work rate. Often closing down opponents and tracking back, he is the ultimate team man. The 24-year-old is a decent dribbler(avg 3.2 per game) and has a knack for scoring from range.
Eintracht Frankfurt have slapped a fee in excess of €45m for their prized man. According to reports, Manchester United and Bayern Munich have shown substantial interest.
#3 Harry Maguire
The 25-year-old centre-back was one of the standout centre-backs in Russia. In a relatively youthful and unfancied English side, Maguire stood out at the back.
At 6.4" the Leicester man is an intimidating presence in both boxes and a major threat from set pieces. He ended the World Cup with a goal and assist to his credit.
Maguire is a clean tackler and a decent passer, averaging over 89% pass success as well as an astounding 6 aerial duels per game. Maguire has been linked with big money moves to Chelsea and Manchester United, with Jose Mourinho an admirer.
At 25, he has his peak years ahead and is likely to cost in excess of £65m following his performances with the Three Lions. Leicester City will be unwilling to financially compete with the top English teams should a tempting offer arrive.
#2 Hirving Lozano
Hirving Lozano surprised many last year when a rejected top offers from Europe's best to join PSV Eindhoven. The decision seems to have been well thought and has paid rich dividends. Hirving came into the tournament on the back of an excellent debut campaign with PSV, scoring 19 goals in the process.
The Mexican's best game was against the defending champions Germany. A constant threat down the left wing, Lozano eventually scored the winning goal.
Lozano has all the attributes of a classic inverted winger. AN excellent crosser, the 22-year-old is also a dead ball specialist.
Lozano is contracted until 2023 and been linked with an array of clubs including Barcelona, Juventus and Chelsea.
A bid of around £40m should acquire the services of "Chucky".
#1 Eden Hazard
Eden Hazard was arguably the best-attacking player in Russia narrowly losing out to Luka Modric for the Golden Ball. In a tournament where Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi failed to reach their usual standards, Eden was at his "hazardous" best.
In games, the Belgian finished with 3 goals and assists. Hazard was the tournament's best dribbler with 6.7 per game also drawing roughly 4.5 fouls per game.
On the back of the Red Devils reaching the semi-finals, Hazard's stock could not have been higher. The 27-year-old recently said that it was "probably time to try something new" and also hinted that his preferred destination was Real Madrid.
Florentino Perez is in need of a global superstar to fill the boots of Cristiano Ronaldo. Hazard represents a worthy contender.