Despite the fact that the Premier League has wrapped up (with Manchester City on top once again), it almost feels as if it’s still undecided. This is thanks to the somewhat unusual situation of two EPL clubs being pitted against once another for the Champions League final. Naturally the league title is still the biggest Premier League prize by definition, but to some the winner of the Liverpool-versus-Tottenham clash on June 1 will have had an even greater season than Man City. Naturally, this upcoming match is soaking up lots of attention, with predictions and previews coming from everyone from average football pundits to the ever-opinionated Jose Mourinho.
For the most part though, this impending Champions League showdown is all that’s left of note on the league front for 2018/19. With most major European domestic championships decided and the FA Cup having come to a close as well, remaining football matches for the year are mostly in smaller leagues around the world – or at least less heralded ones. Now, some serious fans may love this time of year, and enjoy the chance to peek in on these others leagues. For others though, the dwindling 2018/19 season means it’s about time to look forward to the summer transfer window.
With that in mind, we wanted to consider the transfer outlook for the Premier League as it appears right now. More specifically, with another thrilling season in the books, we’re taking a look at some of the potential star players who could be brought into the league to make the 2019/20 campaign even more enjoyable.
Naturally these names are based just on rumours at this point – but they’re certainly some of the big-name players to keep an eye on, going off of what we’re hearing early.
Christian Pulisic – We’ll begin with the emerging American star Christian Pulisic because he seems like the surest bet to be a new impact player in the EPL next season. Currently on loan to Borussia Dortmund from Chelsea, Pulisic is widely expected to join the Blues over the summer and start his English career in the autumn. How much he factors into the action early on will be interesting to see, but Pulisic has the talent to be a contributor from day one, and could be a star in the making at Stamford Bridge.
Antoine Griezmann – There’s already fairly intense debate over where French forward Antoine Griezmann may end up next season. A top scorer for Atlético Madrid and 2018 World Cup winner, Griezmann has substantially raised his profile these last few years, and appears to be at the height of his powers at age 28. He’d be a major acquisition for any team. The rumour here is that he could be headed to the newly crowned champion, Manchester City – though we should note that Pep Guardiola has disputed the idea. We’ll have to wait and see on this one.
David Neres – As much as Chelsea will enjoy the near-certain boost from Pulisic, the club could also be on the lookout for a replacement for Eden Hazard, who has been linked with a move to La Liga. David Neres could fit the bill. Only 22 years old, Neres acquitted himself extraordinarily well for Ajax in the club’s Champions League run, scoring multiple significant goals out of the wing position en route to the semifinal. He likely made himself a great deal of money in the process, and will have multiple high-profile clubs vying for his signature. Chelsea appears likely to be one of them.
Memphis Depay – Liverpool may be on the verge of an historic season, but it’s also preparing to lose Daniel Sturridge. The longtime striker is heavily rumoured to be on his way out of Liverpool this summer, which means Jurgen Klopp and Co. will be seeking a goalscorer to replace him. This could wind up being one of the more interesting chases of the summer, given that it’s always interesting to see what sort of player a championship-caliber club goes after. For now though, Lyon’s Memphis Depay is one capable option who’s been linked to the Reds.
Matthijs de Ligt – Matthijs de Ligt is another Ajax standout who appears to be in line for a payday and a more high-profile position in European football. In fact, after the 2018/19 campaign, he looks like he’s in the running to become one of the better defensive players on the continent. Like Neres, he’s sure to be courted by several major clubs this summer. But the strongest links currently are to Manchester United, meaning the Dutch teenager could well be heading to the EPL.
