Best summer buys for Premier League clubs
It is surely bound to be depressing times for teams and fans alike, during the global financial recession and many teams face growing debts. Manchester City and Real Madrid have been hogging all the superstars available in the market with the lure of their megabucks. But sometimes money in football is just not enough to buy a player and players like Gary Neville, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Paolo Maldini and Raul, who have spent their entire careers at a single club, are prime examples.
With the global financial meltdown and its adverse implications, what can the not-so-rich clubs do? Don’t worry, the financial crunch cannot spoil all the fun as there are plenty of stars that can be bought without spending a single penny.
Here is a list of ultimate affordable summer buys:
David James- Portsmouth
The former England international has 18 years of Premier League experience under his belt and on his day he still is the best goal keeper between the posts. He is out of contract this summer and with Portsmouth relegated to the English Championship, the veteran is set to move out. Although, he had taken a pay cut and forfeited his bonuses in favour of the cash stripped Portsmouth, it is not the right club or league for a player of his calibre. With Arsenal looking for a replacement for their butter-gloved goalies, he could be heading to the Emirates next season and that too for free.
Kris Boyd- Rangers
After having won the Scottish Premier League with Rangers, played in the Champion’s League football, and breaking Henrik Larsson's record for most SPL goals, there may not be anything left to prove for the Rangers sharpshooter. Kris Boyd, the old fashioned centre forward may be on his way out of the Ibrox. With his contract expiring in June he will be available for free for any parties interested. Birmingham will be his most likely destination after having a great first season back in the Premier League. Alex McLeish will definitely be strengthening his squad over the summer and it cannot get any better than getting a high scoring, old fashioned centre forward for free.
Fabio Cannavaro- Juventus
After being thrown to the dogs by Fulham in the Europa League this season his stocks in the Premier League may not have sky rocketed. But the ever reliant Italian is out of contract with the old lady this summer. He is likely to move on with Naopli hot on the heels of the 2006 World Cup winning captain.
Robert Pires- Atletico Madrid
The former Arsenal wingman is turning 36 this year and his legs are not as fast as they once used to be during his time at Arsenal. The Frenchman still may be an attractive option for some teams. He is unlikely to be offered a contract extension in the summer by the Rojiblancos and will be moving on a free transfer. The United States will be his most likely destination.
William Gallas- Arsenal
He may be a disruptive influence in the team. His petulant sulk at Arsenal when their title challenge came to a grinding halt at Birmingham in 2008, or his threat to Chelsea to score an own goal over his dispute on contract term negotiations, are evidence of this. Having said all that, the French international is still a top class defender and is still at the top of his game despite his ageing legs. His experience at the heart of defence is still desirable for many a sides across Europe. The defender may not have many years left in him but he surely can go on for a season or two. With him running out of contract this summer, his home country remains his most likely destination with Paris Saint-Germain his favoured club.
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