Potential Summer Transfers XI

CDM: David Luiz

The mercurial Brazilian was one of the rare breed of players at the troubled club who looked comfortable and thrived under Rafael Benitez. He showed his diversity as he played in different capacities showing his prowess as a defender and midfield pillar. Barcelona and Napoli are set to be the two possible destinations for this gifted player. It will be interesting to see how Jose Mourinho’s arrival at the club contributes to this affair.

CM: Wesley Sneijder

The Dutchman who was the architect of the Netherland’s run to the finals of the World Cup a few years ago and a key member of Mourinho’s treble-winning Inter Milan side is reportedly interested in a move to Chelsea to forge a reunion with the ‘Special One’. Sneijder joined Galatasaray after a heated battle with Inter over his wages. Though these are preliminary reports, Sneijder’s strong relationship with Mourinho might make the deal a reality.

CM: Luka Modric

The former Tottenham Maestro’s career at Real Madrid has been an unsatisfying one. He has been inconsistent but has had his highs, especially the stunner against Manchester United that took Real Madrid to the semi-finals of the Champions League. A move away from the Bernabeu to more familiar English conditions might be a good option for the charismatic Croat. Newly appointed manager of Manchester United, David Moyes is said to be an admirer of his ability to move the ball and may defeat Manchester City and Chelsea to his signature.

CM: Marco Van Ginkel

However, Jose Mourinho’s first signing is likely to be an emerging player by the name of Marco Van Ginkel who scored 8 goals for Dutch league side Vitesse to secure a Europa League position for them. Mourinho is amazed by the talent of the youngster and is willing to throw him the challenge to make a quick transition into English football.

CF: Luis Suarez

Suarez was controversy’s favorite child this season but his skills speak louder than anything else. He was leagues and miles above everyone on the pitch at Anfield and with competition growing ever tougher in England, the promise of Champions League remains more hopeful than realistic. But more than that, Suarez has already declared his disillusionment with England and his desire to be at ‘supermarkets’ (some weak pun intended) without the glare of the British media. Liverpool would not be too eager to let him go but they are not dismayed at his willingness to leave either because of the heavy suspension he has on his head. Suarez will miss a considerable part of the next season and maybe £50m would be of more substance to Liverpool. Real Madrid were reportedly interested but have shifted their coquettish eyes to Napoli’s Edinson Cavani. Bayern Munich maybe a more likely abode for the eccentric but blessed forward.

CF: Edinson Cavani

Another Uruguayan on the list and another one who is being chased by Real Madrid. Cavani has spent the time of his life at Napoli and with the managerial change of guard he may be looking to fulfill Madrid dreams. He has all the wherewithal in terms of skill and temperament and may be a better option for Madrid ahead of Suarez. He has a better eye for goal and his height and physical presence is likely to impress the incoming manager Carlo Ancelotti.