A number of players from Europe's top clubs could depart in the transfer window this summer, but who would be perfect to replace them? We break down some of the best options available.

 

ARSENAL

  • Central midfield
  • Thomas Partey/Granit Xhaka >> Amadou Onana, Everton

Arsenal are intent on implementing a major midfield reshuffle this summer, with both Partey and Xhaka set to move on. The £67.5 million ($85.8m) arrival of Chelsea's Kai Havertz should add creativity and goal threat in the final third, with reports that he will take a No. 8 role and essentially replace Xhaka. Then, the potential £100m-plus signing of West Ham's Declan Rice would ensure a stabilising presence deeper in midfield, or as a box-to-box option, in the same vein as Partey.

But the Gunners need someone do both roles and give them extra depth. Their failure to land Brighton's Moises Caicedo has seen the club turn to other options, such as Southampton's Romeo Lavia, but Everton's Onana could be a great addition.

In a struggling Everton team, the 21-year-old has not yet exhibited the constructive aspects of his game to their full extent, but his developmental ceiling is high. At 6-foot-4, his physical presence, aerial dominance, ability to hassle, press, intercept and bring the ball forward make him an intriguing prospect if placed alongside more creative midfielders.

 

BARCELONA

  • Defensive midfield
  • Sergio Busquets >> Martin Zubimendi, Real Sociedad

Replacing one of the most influential midfielders of his generation in a like-for-like role is hard to achieve, so certain tactical tweaks may need to be made. Veteran new arrival Ilkay Gundogan can theoretically assume many of Busquets' jobs, but, aged just 24, Zubimendi has already shown enough to suggest that he can take on the responsibility for years to come.

Operating as a lone pivote in La Real's midfield, where he covers huge areas of ground to enable the attacking midfielders to shine, has proved an ideal learning curve and Zubimendi has embraced the task. He protects the ball well, rarely loses possession and, while he doesn't register the 60+ passes per game of the ex-Barcelona legend, he moves it on with effortless rhythm. The progressiveness in his passing has improved year on year (89% accuracy per 90 minutes) and is combative and consistent in everything he does.