The night was meant to mark the moment which Athletic Bilbao could finally see their efforts rewarded for beating Manchester United in the shape of a trophy, the Europa League. Instead, the night belonged to Radamel Falcao and his Athletico Madrid side as they triumphed over their enterprising opponents. Falcao proved the decisive differences between the clubs, displaying the cool finishing that has seen him propelled into the European limelight. Speculation is now set to resurface regarding where he may be lining up next season, so where may it be?
Before Athletico signed the Columbian, Falcao was heavily linked with a move to Chelsea. It was thought he would follow in the footsteps of former Porto Manager Andre Villas-Boas and take the bold step to Stamford Bridge. Athletico came calling though as they looked for a replacement for Manchester City bound Sergio Aguero and Falcao duly obliged. The links with Chelsea have never gone away suggesting that the Chelsea board could well be fans. With Drogba set to depart and Torres yet to respond to the burden, London could well have a new resident next season. It would be a big step up for the 26 year old yet to test himself at the highest level and would leave his reputation in the balance should he fail.
With Manchester City seemingly full could their neighbors be a potential option? United seem to only have Wayne Rooney as a player truly capable of scoring 20-30 goals a season with Javier Hernandez and Danny Welbeck both struggling. With supply from fellow South American Antonio Valencia and Nani the striker who has attempted most headers this season would enjoy service of the high class.
He would perhaps be out of the price ranges of Liverpool and Arsenal especially after their recent capture of Lukas Podolski so the two clubs above seem to be his most likely English destination. Tottenham also could be an option but appear to be focused solely on making sure Emmanuel Adebayor will be at White Hart Lane next season.
Falcao will also have suiters abroad, with Inter Milan and the likes of Madrid and other European giants sure to be keeping an eye out on the talented forward.
His destination will remain to be seen but Falcao will be having no shortage of options come the summer. His superb brace upon the stage of the Europa League final has definitely put him on the map he finished Europa top scorer for the second season running.
Follow Francis Kerins on Twitter @Franciskerins94
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Oh look, another ‘but, could he make it in the Premier League?’ article. Yawn.