continuation

  

  

6 Kevin Kampl, Red Bull Salzburg to Borussia Dortmund

Currently sitting bottom of the Bundesliga, Jürgen Klopp’s side desperately need an injection of energy in the centre of the pitch – and Kampl could be the man to provide it. He ran further than any other player during an impressive debut in the goalless draw with Leverkusen at the weekend, which could be vital for a visibly fatigued Dortmund side.

7 Matija Nastasic, Manchester City to Schalke

The Serbian defender enjoyed a wonderful first season in English football, looking remarkably assured alongside Vincent Kompany in the Manchester City defence. Manuel Pellegrini did not take to him, however, in somewhat mysterious circumstances – which means Schalke have pounced with a loan move.

Roberto Di Matteo’s side will enjoy the services of a composed, intelligent and proactive defender whose style fits the Bundesliga nicely. He performed well in the 1-0 win over Hannover and this could easily be turned into a permanent move at the end of the season.

8 Víctor Valdés, free agent to Manchester United

With increasing speculation that David de Gea will leave for Real Madrid at some point – perhaps in the summer – Manchester United now have an ideal replacement.

Valdés is considerably older than De Gea but signing a three-time European Cup winner on a free transfer is a fantastic dea. Valdés is perfect for Louis van Gaal’s intended system: capable of sweeping behind a high defensive line, entirely comfortable with the ball at his feet and superb in one-on-one situations. He also brings considerable experience to a section of the Manchester United side currently packed with youngsters.

9 Manolo Gabbiadini, Sampdoria to Napoli

Rafael Benítez has been keen to strengthen his attacking options, especially withthe surprise summer signing Michu failing to make a significant impact. Gabbiadiani has long been considered among the finest young players and has been in exceptional form for Sampdoria this season, hitting seven goals in 13 games.

A great all-round attacker who can strike for goal from long-range – perhaps comparable to a young Enrico Chiesa – Gabbiadini will offer a more attacking alternative to the trio who play behind Gonzalo Higuaín and is likely to be aNapoli fan favourite for years to come.

10 André Schürrle, Chelsea to Wolfsburg

It never really worked out for Schürrle in the Premier League but he was sensational in his final season at Leverkusen and should thrive in a dynamic, high-tempo Wolfsburg side that thrashed Bayern Munich 4-1 on Friday night.

Part of Schürrle’s problem at Chelsea was his positioning. At Leverkusen he depended upon cutting inside from the left flank and shooting powerfully with his right foot but with Eden Hazard commanding the left-wing position at Chelsea, his opportunities there were limited. Back in the Bundesliga, expect him to shine.