With the summer transfer window well and truly open, it seems to be shaping up as a particularly busy time for clubs around Europe as always. But the names at the top of the biggest clubs’ wish-lists are coming with ever more hefty price tags. Therefore, particularly for the mid-table clubs and those looking to scrape into Europe next season, it might be worth trying to find some lesser-talked-about talent at a knockdown price. Even then big-money spenders Manchester City are reportedly close to some shrewd spending on players such as Stefan Savic and Alessio Cerci. Here are just a few players who I think could be good value for money this summer, but haven’t quite hogged as many headlines:
Miralem Pjanic
The 21 year old creative playmaker has been an exciting part of the Lyon line-up for a couple of years now. He played in the Champions league for the last two seasons showing good technical ability as well as an eye for goal, scoring against Fiorentina in the group stages and Real Madrid in the first knock-out round to help Lyon on their way to an impressive European run in 2010. Last season, although starting the opening games in the first team, he fell out of favour when Gourcuff was introduced. Wolfsburg have reportedly shown interest and are considering an offer, as the player could potentially be let go for around 12million Euros. In terms of Premiership potential, I think he would be a good option for a team like Liverpool to add some attacking creativity or Tottenham if they need to replace Modric. Although maybe a bit of an inconsistent performer at times, he is improving quickly, has experience at the top level and is versatile in where he can play on the pitch.
Pierre-Michel Lasogga
Not exactly a household name, but this German 19 year old is one to watch. He spent last season in the not so dizzying heights of the German second division with Hertha Berlin, but nonetheless showed quality and attributes of a talented striker in the making. He bagged 16 goals in 31 appearances for his side last season and earned himself a place in the German under-21 side, for whom he scored in his first outing. He has good aerial ability at 6ft 2′ and is always looking to get in good positions off the ball. Although he hasn’t proven himself at the top level and may not be ready for first team football towards the higher end of a competitive league just yet, Lasogga is an option for anyone looking for a young striker with great potential and goalscoring power. Even if he is not snapped up for around 2 or 3million Euros this summer, it will be interesting to see what sort of role he can play next season.
Alan Dzagoev
This 21 year old international is one of the most exciting talents to come out of Russia for a while. Labelled the new Arshavin, he has been known in the Russian League for his passing, ability to read the game and also his determined nature. Currently at CSKA Moscow, he has enjoyed 3 and a half seasons there with some big performances along the way, scoring twice against rivals Zenit in a 3-1 away win and a good goal against Manchester United in a 3-3 draw in the Champions League in 2009. With reported interest from Real Madrid, Chelsea and Man United, now could be the time to make an offer for Dzagoev before his value continues to rise. As an attacking midfielder, I think he would be good for Chelsea who seem to need a new creative influence in the middle of the park, someone who can pick out intelligent passes and initiate flowing attacks.
Vaclav Kadlec
A striker with Sparta Prague since the early age of 16, Kadlec has been hotly tipped as one of the biggest Czech talents in recent times, winning the Czech talent of the year award last year. He also represented his national side at under-21 level in the recent European Championships. Vaclav is a natural goalscorer, holding the record for youngest scorer for Sparta and the Czech national side. The thing that makes him most dangerous to the opposition is his movement, being quick and lively in and around the box, whilst his technique, composure and natural talent give every indication that he has the ability to become a very good player. He’s not afraid to hit the ball from outside the area and has a venomous shot on him, as well as an adequate weaker left foot. Although maybe not ready to step up to the demands of regular first team Premiership football yet, Kadlec is an undoubted talent and could benefit greatly from training in a world class environment to develop his abilities, with maybe a view to a loan move to gain more regular experience. Definite hot prospect for anyone who wants to nurture a talented goalscorer.
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