1. Koke (Atlético Madrid)
Perhaps one of the most sought after players in European football at present, the emergence of the 21 year old Spaniard as an integral piece in Altético's ever more impressive form has come as no surprise to those who have followed his development under Diego Simeone. What may surprise people is that his release clause is believed to be
just over £16 million, a bargain by footballing standards. He made his first team debut as a 16 year old, and has been with the club since the age of 8. At 5ft 9" and 11st 3lbs he isn't the most intimidating presence on the pitch, but he makes up for that with a dogged determination to win the ball back in advanced areas as a result of this he has committed 18 fouls in 12 league appearances - and is a slight disciplinary concern, a necessary part of life under Simeone. An attack minded midfielder with an excellent passing range, he's often deployed on the right wing for his crossing ability. He prefers to operate in an attacking central role, but is adept at dropping back into a deeper midfield position and driving the play forward from there. His start to the season has been incredible in 12 league appearances he has seven assists, two goals and has made 16 key passes and it's widely acknowledged that he has played a huge part in Diego Costa's current run of excellent form. He has averaged 80% pass completion so far this season, impressive considering the time he spends in attacking areas, and tends to play a lot of short passes attempting only 22 long balls, compared to Carrick's 83 attempted long balls in nine league games. One area in which he excels is set piece delivery - he has incredibly accurate and dangerous delivery from both corners and freekicks and this is where a lot of his assists come from, a weapon that United could exploit with the likes of Van Persie, Vidic, Evans, Jones, Smalling, Carrick, Ferdinand and Fellaini all potential targets in the box. Overall he's an extremely hard working, attack minded midfielder with the necessary tactical flexibility to play anywhere from the centre of midfield to either wing. His passing ability and vision make him a threat going forward, and he has the stamina and determination to provide good defensive cover at 21 years old he has a lot of development ahead, but he certainly has the potential to become a "complete" player in every sense of the word. Barcelona
are believed to be interested in securing his services, which speaks to how highly he's rated in Spain. Atlético's strong start to the season, as well as his love for the club he's grown up with and their fans, may prove to be stumbling blocks in agreeing personal terms - but with such a low release clause, and the huge potential he has, United should do everything within their power to try and bring him to Old Trafford. What do you think of these suggestions? Share your thoughts in the comments section.