While Euro 2020 might be dominating discussion, clubs have already started to implement their plans in the transfer window before the start of next season.
The impact of the pandemic has been felt financially across the world, and football is no different. Clubs are wary of spending big money on players, and are finding shrewder ways of signing talents.
However, some big names might be available on the market this summer, and could potentially go for big money. Clubs like Manchester United and Manchester City are expected to spend big, having been linked with some of the star names in the world of football.
5 high profile footballers who could leave their current clubs this summer
#5 Raphael Varane (Real Madrid)
Real Madrid have already announced the departure of talismanic centre-back Sergio Ramos, and he could be followed by his centre-back partner Raphael Varane.
Varane is regarded as one of the best centre-backs in the world, and has been a mainstay at Real Madrid for some time now. However, the France international has not been at his very best in recent seasons, and there have been suggestions that he is looking to leave Los Blancos for a new challenge.
The 28-year old, who has made 360 appearances in all competitions for Real Madrid since joining the club in 2011, has been linked heavily with Premier League clubs Chelsea and Manchester United. Red Devils manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer reportedly sees Varane as an ideal partner to Harry Maguire.
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#4 Paul Pogba (Manchester United)
Perennially linked with a move away from Manchester United, Paul Pogba could finally leave the club this summer.
With just a year left on his contract, there have been no signs from Pogba or his camp about wanting to sign a new deal with Manchester United. The 28-year old is renowned for his technical skills and passing ability, but has frustrated Old Trafford faithful with his inconsistent performances since returning to the club in 2016.
Pogba will not be short of suitors if he decides to leave the club this summer. Juventus, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid are all said to be interested in signing the France international, who could be sold for a reduced fee due to his contractual situation.
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#3 Erling Braut Haaland (Borussia Dortmund)
One of the best strikers in world football right now, Erling Braut Haaland is a player in high demand.
The Norway international has been in scintillating form since joining Borussia Dortmund from Red Bull Salzburg in January 2020. Haaland has made 59 appearances in all competitions and scored 57 goals for the Bundesliga giants, and won his first trophy in the form of the DFB-Pokal last season with the club.
Haaland will not come cheap this summer though. Borussia Dortmund are keen on keeping the 20-year old for one more season, despite interest from clubs like Chelsea, Manchester United, Manchester City, Real Madrid and Barcelona.
#2 Jadon Sancho (Borussia Dortmund)
One young star who is likely to leave Borussia Dortmund this summer is talented forward Jadon Sancho.
Sancho has been a revelation in the Bundesliga since joining Borussia Dortmund from Manchester City in 2017. A highly creative attacker with good pace and technical ability, the 21-year old has been one of Borussia Dortmund's most important players since joining the club.
The England international was persistently linked with Manchester United last summer, and that interest has not subsided. The Old Trafford outfit are reportedly closing in on a deal. Liverpool and Chelsea have been suggested as destinations as well.
#1 Harry Kane (Tottenham Hotspur)
Tottenham Hotspur were poor last season, and one can only imagine where they would have finished in the league if not for the form of Harry Kane.
Kane arguably enjoyed his best season in professional football last season, making 35 league appearances, scoring 23 goals and providing 14 assists. The England international was the best player in the league last season, and has previously stated that he wants to win trophies.
The 27-year old is reportedly willing to leave Tottenham Hotspur to fulfill his ambitions and top clubs in Europe are tracking him. Manchester City have already made an offer, while Manchester United, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain have all been linked.
Also Read: Euro 2020: 5 best forwards in the tournament so far