World Cup Stars on Their Way to the Premier League?

The 2018 World Cup produced many memorable moments.  Russia’s run to the quarter-final, Belgium’s last gap win over Japan, England’s penalty success over Colombia, Croatia’s extra-time exploits and France’s win in the final are just some of the highlights. As with any big international competition, the World Cup gives players the chance to show the planet what they are capable of producing.  It is also an opportunity to secure a big move to a Premier League club and several players have been linked with English teams following the tournament.

Croatia Duo

Last season, Ivan Perisic was strongly linked with a move to Manchester United.  Jose Mourinho seemed keen to bring the Croatian international to Old Trafford but the transfer never materialised. Perisic was one of the top performers in the 2018 World Cup for Croatia.  He was instrumental in seeing his country through to the final, not only working very hard for the team but also delivering moments of magic.  Perisic scored very good goals in both the semi-final and the final and his work rate, pace, skill and finishing ability is everything Mourinho looks for in a wide player.

Operating on the opposite flank for Croatia was Ante Rebic.  The Eintracht Frankfurt forward did not have the same impact on the tournament as Perisic but at 24-years of age is 5 years younger than his fellow countryman. With a potential move for Gareth Bale seemingly out of the question this summer, Manchester United could turn their attention to the Croatian duo according to reports in the Sun newspaper.

Russian Star

Sport Express in Russia have been monitoring the future of Aleksandr Golovin.  The CSKA Moscow midfielder played well for his country in the tournament and at 22-years of age, has plenty of time to further improve.

Monaco have recently been linked with a move for the player but Sport Express believe Chelsea could also return with an offer for a player who is valued at around £22 million.  Much may depend on the future of current Chelsea players but if Golovin was to make the move to Stamford Bridge, he would be following in the footsteps of fellow countryman, Yuri Zhirkov.

English Rose

One man who could be leaving the Premier League following the World Cup is Danny Rose.  The England left-back did not cover himself in glory during the tournament but has previously been linked with a move to Manchester United.

However, reports suggest he could be about to make a shock transfer to Paris Saint-Germain.  Thomas Tuchel is looking for a new left-back following the move of Yuri Berchiche and with a move for Juventus’ Alex Sandro stalling, the Tottenham Hotspur man could fit the bill.

Spurs chairman Daniel Levy is a tough negotiator but PSG are not short on cash and want to build a squad capable of winning the Champions League next season.