5 of the most in-demand youngsters in world football

#2 Frenkie De Jong (AFC Ajax)

De Jong is a true baller in every sense

When a young, Dutch midfielder is referred to as the modern reincarnation of the late Johan Cryuff, people sit up and pay attention.

A youngster whose stock has risen rapidly in recent months, De Jong is a player who at the moment, can pick which European giant he would want to play for if he leaves the Amsterdam Arena.

The 21-year-old is an integral member of the Ajax side currently making waves in the UEFA Champions League. Operating as a regista, he is the orchestrator and dictator of how the team plays. This is in spite of the presence of more experienced players like Lassa Schone and Dusan Tadic in the team.

His intelligence, press-resistant style, and distribution are already at par with many an older player. He has shone whenever he has been called upon and has shown zero nerves even when up against more illustrious opponents attacks.

Like the very best registas, he is adept at slotting into the centre of the defense and acting as a sweeper whenever the fullbacks push up. FC Barcelona is just one of the many clubs he has been linked to. The Blaugrana see De Jong as a long-term replacement for Ivan Rakitic.

He has also been linked to Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspurs. Ajax has remained obstinate about not selling but it is doubtful if De Jong will still be in Amsterdam come next season.