9) Mateo Kovacic (Inter Milan) – linked by The Independent
A name we’ve discussed time and time again. He’s young, with plenty of experience at the top level, and Inter already have a ready-made replacement in the form of Geoffrey Kondogbia. However, despite all the rumours, we get the sense that there really isn’t all that much interest here. Remember that any deal will come at a high price.
8) Moussa Sissoko (Newcastle United) – linked by The Independent
Definitely one of the more appealing midfielder deals we’ve seen, simply for the fact that the cost would likely be that much lower. The French international should not be underestimated either, he’s almost single-handedly dragged Newcastle to results at times over the last couple of years, and he could thrive with a ‘bigger’ club.
7) Christian Benteke (Aston Villa) – linked by Daily Mail
Probably the most regularly linked name out of any this summer. However, as the Mail states, Villa are so far refusing to budge on that £32.5m buyout clause / asking price and it seems that’s a fee we’re simply not willing to part with. The big Belgian scored 15 goals last season, guiding the club to top flight safety and the FA Cup final.
