Ten world class full-backs that could be heading to the Premier League in January…
At times, the world seems totally devoid of world class full-backs. Arsenal, Manchester United and Liverpool could all benefit from signing one in the January transfer window, but where are they to be found?
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So far this season, both Arsenal and Manchester United have struggled with defensive injuries, with the likes of summer signing Mathieu Debuchy and Luke Shaw both long-term absentees. Liverpool also strengthened earlier this year, but Javier Manquillo and Alberto Moreno have proved to be far from an upgrade.
Here are ten potential signings that could improve any of the Premier League trio:
10) Cedric Soares (Sporting Lisbon)
The 23-year-old right-back earned his first caps for Portugal this year, and is likely to be one of Lisbon’s next big money exports along with holding midfielder William Caravlho – who was targeted by Arsenal last summer.
9) Mattia De Sciglio (AC Milan)
The 22-year-old Italian international, who plays on the right side of defence, has struggled with some injury issues, but has been a regular this season. Was part of his countries World Cup squad in the summer, playing once.
8) Martin Montoya (Barcelona)
The 23-year-old right back has reportedly become frustrated at Barcelona, where he has been unable to force himself into the first team picture. The academy graduate and Spanish youth team international has been watched by Liverpool.
7) Caner Erkin (Fenerbahce)
The 26-year-old Turkish international last played outside of his own country for CSKA Moscow back in 2009, and could be ready for another move in 2015. Has previously attracted interest from several of Europe’s big clubs.
6) Coke (Sevilla)
Liverpool swooped for Alberto Moreno this summer, but perhaps missed out on the key to Sevilla’s European success. The wonderfully named right back has been with the club since 2011, and now at 27, is in the prime of his career.
5) Oscar de Marcos (Athletic Bilbao)
The versatile 25-year-old, who can play on either side of a back four or in midfield, has been key to his side’s recent success, which included qualifying for this year’s Champions League. He scored twice against Man United in 2012.
4) Alex Sandro (Porto)
The 23-year-old left back is a Brazilian international and a key player for the Portuguese giants, who signed him from Santos back in 2011. Played at the 2012 Olympics in London, where Brazil finished second to Mexico.
3) Danilo (Porto)
On the other side of Porto’s defence is another Brazilian international. Right back Danilo Luiz da Silva – to give him his full name – also joined the club from Santos. The 23-year-old also played at the Olympics, scoring once.
2) Ricardo Rodriguez (Wolfsburg)
The goal scoring left-back, who has 21 goals in 84 league games for Wolfsburg – most of them free-kicks and penalties – is still only 22-years-old. The Swiss star has been likened to Everton’s Leighton Baines.
1) Fabio Coentrao (Real Madrid)
Recent reports claim that the Portuguese international’s time in Madrid could be coming to an end. The 26-year-old left back has only managed 50 league appearances since 2011, and has regularly been selected behind Marcelo.
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