5 players who could leave PSG this January

#3 Lucas Moura

Lucas will struggle to get into the first team this season, further stalling his development at PSG

The Brazilian was signed by PSG for €45 million after they fended off competition from Manchester United and Inter Milan in 2012. The fee was a substantial amount for the then 20-year-old and he was expected to be a future superstar for the Parisians.

Since then, he has shown flashes of brilliance on several occasions but has largely flattered to deceive with inconsistency and overplaying often associated with the player.

A player whom fans hoped would emulate another Brazilian great Ronaldinho, Moura has left the supporters frustrated in spite of his potential and the excitement he brings to the game.

This season will be more challenging for Lucas as he competes with Neymar and Mbappe for a starting spot. The signings PSG have made in the last two transfer windows suggest that they might have run out of patience and may be ready to cash in on the Brazilian.

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What went wrong?

It was never the ability that was in question rather the end product. His failure to progress into an established member of the team despite being at the club for five seasons has disappointed many within the club.

In a league where PSG are expected to steamroll opponents, he has scored 31 goals in 145 appearances which can be considered ordinary. Moreover, just three goals in the Champions League ever since making his debut highlights his lack of impact.

It's also interesting to note that Lucas was specifically brought in along with other notable stars in order for the French club to compete in Europe. A full international by the age of 19, he was leading the attack at former club Sao Paulo, so rotation is something he is not used to. The competition for places at the French club means he is not a regular starter, something that has dented his confidence.

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Possible destinations

When PSG signed Lucas, they expected a career trajectory similar to that of Neymar at Barcelona. Their summer acquisition of Neymar now tells the whole story. Lucas is no longer the man to lead the line. He was afforded the time to claim a place but his failure remains a source of frustration for all fans.

However, he won't be short of suitors with Premier league and Italian clubs interested in his services. PSG would want to recoup as much as they can with the player still attractive on the transfer market. The sooner he leaves the better for his career. A permanent transfer in January is likely.