The rumour mill is filled with transfer speculation linking household names and high-profile young talents with big-money moves to some of Europe’s top sides.
Promising talents often don’t get the attention they deserve because they’re featuring in lesser clubs away from the limelight of a title challenge or the recognition that comes with topping the charts for goals or assists.
A more extensive search though could unearth some hidden gems scattered across the European circuit and we’ve compiled a series to put some of those players in the spotlight.
Here, you can find all five editions neatly packaged for your convenience. Enjoy!
FLORIAN GRILLITSCH – Hoffenheim
Age: 23
Position: Centre Midfield
Strengths: Passing, tackling, interceptions
Similar to: Michael Carrick
Where he could thrive: Manchester United, Ajax
A deep-lying playmaker more by nature than trade, Grillitsch is tailor-made for the role.
Read our complete analysis here.
MILOT RASHICA – Werder Bremen
Age: 23
Position: Forward
Strengths: Dribbling, work-rate, X-factor
Similar to: Luis Suarez
Where he could thrive: Barcelona, Bayern Munich
He is never stationary. Always running, always thinking and always creating chances.
Read our complete analysis here.
JULES KOUNDE – Bordeaux
Age: 20
Position: Centre Back
Strengths: Passing, pace, composure
Similar to: Thomas Vermaelen
Where he could thrive: Arsenal, Sevilla
From how he receives possession to his first touch, Kounde is one of the best ball-playing centre-backs in France.
Read our complete analysis here.
JONATHAN IKONE – Lille
Age: 21
Position: Attacking Midfield/Winger
Strengths: Creativity, dribbling, versatility
Similar to: Nabil Fekir
Where he could thrive: Arsenal, Everton
His quick turns and his direct running helps transition play from midfield to attack almost instantly.
Read our complete analysis here.
BARTLOMIEJ DRAGOWSKI – Fiorentina
Age: 21
Position: Goalkeeper
Strengths: Shot-stopping, punching, rushing out
Similar to: Wojciech Szczesny
Where he could thrive: PSG, Roma
Apart from his exceptional reflexes, Dragowski is proactive and commands the penalty area.
Read our complete analysis here.