The World Cup is clearly at the forefront of everyone’s minds, but there are still many intriguing story lines in the world of club football. Several teams are getting a head start on adding key players to their squads in preparation for next season.
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It has been widely speculated for quite some time that Chelsea would go after Spanish star striker Diego Costa. According to Sky Sports, Chelsea are looking to secure Costa before the start of the World Cup, beginning on June 12 and a deal could be done by Tuesday. Manager Jose Mourinho has been adamant that he wants a true number 9 in his squad, which Chelsea have been lacking since the departure of Didier Drogba back in 2012 after the team’s Champions League triumph.
With Costa set to join Chelsea it appears that Romelu Lukaku will be leaving London next season. Lukaku has impressed on loans with West Bromwich Albion and Everton since joining Chelsea. A permanent move to Everton is realistic for the Belgian international but look for London side Tottenham and Atletico Madrid to express interest as well by the conclusion of the World Cup.
In addition to adding Costa, Mourinho is keen on adding Barcelona’s Cesc Fabregas. With legendary central midfielder Frank Lampard departing this summer, Fabregas would be an excellent addition in the center of the park for the Blues alongside Nemanja Matic.
Several months back Barcelona was disciplined for an infringement when signing youth players but that transfer ban has since been removed. The Catalans are heavily interested in replacing Fabregas with Sevilla midfielder Ivan Rakitic. His play for the Europa League champions has drawn interest from several other giants including Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid.
Manager Brendan Rodgers and Liverpool aren’t anywhere close to being done this summer. The Reds have already secured forward Rickie Lambert this summer but now switch their attention to Bayern Munich midfielder Xherdan Shaqiri. The Swiss star hasn’t received as much time on the field for the German side as he deserves and a move to England could be in the 22 year old’s best interest.
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Newly appointed Manchester United manager Louis Van Gaal isn’t wasting any time and has several big names lined up to bring to Old Trafford next season. The Dutchman has praised Juventus’ Arturo Vidal and Bayern Munich’s Bastian Schweinsteiger this offseason and it appears that one will likely end up a Red Devil. United struggled mightily last season but their greatest weaknesses came in the midfield.
In Italy, Roma have added Seydou Keita on a free transfer from Valencia. With Roma set to play Champions League football next season they can use all the experience possible to strengthen a squad that will certainly be challenged by other European giants.
US international Julian Green hasn’t started a match for Bayern Munich but the 19 year old is beginning to draw attention from English club Tottenham Hotspur. A permanent move or loan to England would be beneficial for Green’s growth.
