5 potential replacements for Javier Zanetti

Footballers like Javier Adelmar Zanetti don't grow on trees. They came along once in a few generations. Zanetti was full-back, winger, defensive midfielder, attacking midfielder, everything combined. So if Inter Milan were to replace him with one player, they'd do very very well.Here, we take a look at players who Inter could target to fill in the void that Zanetti will eventually leave.

#1 Seamus Coleman

Seamus Coleman would be the perfect fit at Right back for Inter. Adventurous, has good composure on the ball, crosses well, and pops in with a goal or two of his own. Those are the right attributes for an attacking full back. Defensively as well, he is not easily penetrable, given his pace and strength off the ball. But with Inter struggling, and Everton on the rise, Inter would have to shell out a lot of money for Coleman's services.

#2 Dani Carvajal

Carvajal has been in and out of the Real Madrid side this season, jostling for position with Alvaro Arbeloa. Inter could have a beast with them, if they do manage to sign Carvajal. Defensively, Carvajal is very strong, and offers a constant outlet down the right hand side. At 22 years old, he could be just the perfect man for Inter.

#3 Martin Montoya

A product of La Masia, Montoya is challenging Dani Alves for a place is the starting 11 at Barcelona. Montoya is not your run of the mill fullback. He is extremely pacy, and gets in behind defenses very often. Defensively, he is not as strong as a Coleman or a Carvajal, but he is still a very useful option.

#4 Daley Blind

Daley Blind has been instrumental in Ajax's successful run under Frank de Boer, and he is as close as modern football has got to finding a new Zanetti. Equally adept at playing in defensive midfield and as left back, Blind has been very useful for Ajax and the Dutch national side. Will Blind continue the tradition of Ajax stars seeking greener pastures elsewhere?

#5 Mattia de Sciglio

From Inter's city rivals AC Milan, Mattia de Sciglio is another option for Inter to look at. He is equally adept at playing in both full back positions and has been thrust into the Italian national side at a very young age. His potential is there for all to see, and with Milan struggling this season, he could well be the man Inter look at.