2. Cheick Tiote
Club: Newcastle United Position: Defensive Midfield Value: £25m A massive influence on the pitch for Newcastle for the past three seasons, the Ivorian enforcer has been a revelation since making the move from Twente for a fraction of his current value, and for most of the past two years he has also been linked with a move away from the club. Strong on the ball, capable of a range of passes (though not to his usual success yet this season), and touch in the tackle, Tiote is a strong foundation in defensive midfield, breaking up opposition attacks as well as starting attacks for his own team. He was heavily linked with a move to Chelsea in the summer, which didn't materialise, but United could represent a prestigious enough move for the Ivorian to prize him away from the North East. Newcastle fans will no doubt fear an exodus in January, with the club notoriously committed to making profit, but they are difficult sellers, and any move is likely to cost Sir Alex close to £25m or so.