Back page For many players at the World Cup, the tournament presents itself as an opportunity to enhance their club career. Who could be earning themselves a big money move after Brazil?
Marcelo Diaz (Chile)
Aside from Arturo Vidal, Marcelo Diaz is the other key player in the centre of Chile midfield. The Basel midfielder keeps the side ticking over and he is the initiator of much of Chile’s positive attacking movements.
In the European competitions he has also proved himself to be worthy of a move to a bigger European club with his performances for Basel. Much of the Swiss club’s success has been down his role in the centre of the park.
Jefferson Montero (Ecuador)
Currently with Morelia in Mexico, Jefferson Montero is recognised as having the potential to become a massive star by South American football journalist Tim Vickery. The 24-year-old has previously flopped in Europe with Spanish clubs Villarreal, Real Betis and Levante, but still he has remained an essential player to the Ecuadorian national team.
The World Cup gives him the chance to prove he’s good enough to tackle European football once again. If Ecuador are successful, it will be down the dominate wing play of both him and Manchester United winger Antonio Valencia
Memphis Depay (Netherlands)
Regarded as one of the most exciting attacking players in the Dutch Eredivisie. The PSV winger provides an interesting alternative for the likes of Sneijder and Van Der Vaart. With a lower centre of gravity, he has more in directness to game than the aforementioned Sneijder and Van Der Vaart.
A move is probable after the World Cup considering PSV seem likely to miss out on Champions League football. A switch to the Premier League would most probable for the 20-year-old.
Tommy Oar (Australia)
While Australia seem unlikely to get out of their group, Tommy Oar is a player who could force himself a move during the tournament. Still only 21, he has been in Europe since 2010 playing for Utrecht, where he has been a key player. He is coming to the form and he is feeling confident ahead of the summer despite a difficult season with Utrecht. He told reporters: “I think my game has improved a lot since the winter break and I am feeling fresh and full of confidence.”
With exciting attacking players at a premium, Tommy Oar could be the bargain every manager is looking for. And given the need for Australia to have an heir to Tim Cahill, the move would be in the best interests of his national team also.
Imoh Ezekiel (Nigeria)
One of the key players at Standard Liege, Imoh Ezekiel is usually overshadowed by the form of his fellow team-mate Mitchy Batshuayi. His 11 goals in 30 appearances this season has done enough to impress his national team manager Stephen Keshi and he should be on the plane to sell himself to the global audience.
As one of the more vibrant attacking players in the Belgian Pro-League, he would be a fine signing for any side that is looking to add an spark to their game.
