Which of the continent’s stars would thrive in Europe’s most popular league?
Undoubtedly, Partey's standing as one of the top-performing Africans in Europe has merited links to Liverpool, Manchester United, and Arsenal among others in the last few months.
Of the aforementioned, only the Gunners have seemed to take the step to approach Atletico Madrid for the player’s services.
The impasse in the negotiations has reportedly been with the North London club failing to match the Ghana star’s release clause, but that hasn’t stopped Gooners from getting excited by the midfielder’s talent.
Partey’s adeptness in the less glamorous aspects of the game, and also his assuredness in possession would help Mikel Arteta’s midfield in more ways than one.
Furthermore, his presence would also give the Spanish manager several tactical options to consider given the West African’s versatility.
The Napoli man constantly gets linked with a move away from Naples and this year’s no different. It seems, though, that this year’s rumours have some truth in it with Manchester City reportedly on the verge of completing the big-money transfer.
Koulibaly, regarded as one of the best centre-backs in Europe, ought to improve a City defence that sometimes looked at sixes and sevens in 2019/20, leading to failure in both the Premier League and Champions League.
He didn’t quite hit the heights of previous seasons as Napoli toiled early on in the campaign, but that shouldn’t diminish his overall ability and quality.
Observers have reservations about his age, and it’ll be up to K2 to prove that a 29-year-old centre-back can thrive in the English top flight.
If a transfer for Koulibaly falls through, RB Leipzig centre-back Upamecano is widely regarded as the next big thing in Europe.
The Leipzig man’s performances in Europe this season, especially in the Round of 16 second-leg vs Tottenham Hotspur and quarter-final victory over Atletico Madrid saw his popularity grow significantly.
A move to England may be impossible this summer, owing to his recent contract renewal, however, a reportedly lower release clause (kicking in next summer) means the 21-year-old defender will be high in demand in 12 months' time.
Chelsea’s problems with their number one goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga suggest a move for another shot-stopper ought to be prioritised.
This has prompted links to Ajax’s Onana, who the Blues faced twice in Europe in 2019. The Cameroon star is said to be available for a reasonable fee, and the West London side could swoop if necessary.
With his club unlikely to stand in his way if he wants a transfer, the goalie could be reunited with Hakim Ziyech, whose move to Stamford Bridge was confirmed months ago.
While Daka isn’t quite as popular or sought-after as the rest of the aforementioned players, the Red Bull Salzburg frontman is tipped for great things, and a 24-goal league return last season suggests this optimism isn't misplaced.
Indeed, the Zambia forward’s career trajectory has been predicted to follow in the footsteps of Liverpool star Sadio Mane, who moved to Southampton after impressing at Die Mozartstadterbetween 2012 and 2014.
Daka’s goals in the Austrian Bundesliga prove he not only thrives on running onto through-balls but tends to position himself for easy tap-ins as well.
He’s still 21 but the Salzburg man could be playing in the Premier League sooner rather than later.
Source: goal.com