Five Premier League players who have impressed this season and could be on the move this summer
Five Premier League players who have impressed this season and could be on the move this summer
By Josh Graham
The 2021/22 Premier League season is approaching the crunch Christmas period which can make or break a season.
We’ve already seen our fair share of managerial axings and drama on the field, but which top-flight stars have really been catching the eye?
Here we take a look at five of the league’s top performers, who could earn themselves a big-money move this summer.
Tino Livramento
When Southampton signed Tino Livramento from Chelsea in the summer, it was by no means the most eye-catching transfer of the window but it could be the most savvy.
The England Under-21s full-back has shone at Saints under the tutelage of Ralph Hasenhuttl, earning a number of plaudits for his displays.
The 19-year-old has been one of the standouts at St Mary’s, starting every game since his arrival from West London.
He has been solid at the back but also caught the eye going forward with marauding runs down the flank, utilising his pace.
However, having come through the academy at Chelsea, Livramento’s old employers could decide they like what they see of him having reportedly inserted a buy-back clause of around £40million when he left Stamford Bridge.
And if it’s not the Blues, several top clubs will definitely be keeping tabs on his progress.
Conor Gallagher
The comparisons with David Beckham may be strictly haircut related (for now), but Conor Gallagher has been sensational for Crystal Palace.
The Chelsea loanee has been instrumental in the middle of the park for the Eagles, so much so that Gareth Southgate gave him his debut for England against San Marino.
The Blues are certainly aware of Gallagher’s undoubted ability as boss Thomas Tuchel was asked about whether he would think about recalling him and proclaimed, “I love him”.
But even if Gallagher returns to Chelsea, he may find game time hard to come by as so many players have in the Premier League leaders’ star-studded squad.
Therefore, top clubs may be ready and waiting to try and lure him away come the summer.
Declan Rice
David Moyes is doing a phenomenal job at West Ham and his rock in the heart of midfield has been Declan Rice.
Rice has been captaining the side and delivering peerless displays that have made him one of the first names on the Three Lions’ teamsheet.
The murmurs of a return to Chelsea, where he grew up alongside close pal Mason Mount, are set to swirl once again this summer.
Manchester United have also been mentioned in the conversation and although Rice clearly has a strong bond with the Hammers, it may only be a matter of time before he is tempted to jump ship.
Maxwel Cornet
Nothing sums up Maxwel Cornet’s season better than the stunning goal that earned Burnley a point in the 3-3 draw against Crystal Palace at Turf Moor.
The Ivorian has been in sensational form and has bagged five goals and an assist in nine games for the Clarets.
Given he grew up idolising Didier Drogba on TV, a move to one of the title-challenging clubs is certainly one that you could see happening this summer if he carries on finding the net with regularity.
Allan Saint-Maximin
Allan Saint-Maximin has been a rare bright spark for a struggling Newcastle United this season.
The French winger has bagged three goals and three assists in 12 league games, despite his side sitting bottom of the table.
And although the 24-year-old now plays for the richest club in the world after the Saudi takeover, he may be persuaded to look elsewhere if the Magpies do not beat the drop.
He certainly would fit in at any club playing European football, so if he is not convinced by the Toon long-term project, prospective new clubs will certainly be sniffing around for his signature.