Top five young defenders in Europe

Inigo Martinez

2. Iñigo Martinez ( Real Sociedad, La Liga)

This 21-year-old centre-back is a strong header of the ball and is an excellent reader of the game and a Spanish international.

The above qualities might just sound like a Barcelona centre-back, but this Sociedad lad is a shade under 6-ft, and is tactically aware and aggressive in tackles. After establishing himself as one of the brightest defenders in the La Liga, he deservedly got a chance in the Spanish team for the London Olympics 2012.

He was linked with Arsenal, Chelsea and Real Madrid this transfer window.

He is hailed as the “next Carles Puyol” amongst Spanish fans.