JDY

Juventus also have the best midfield trio in Europe, and a back 3 that dominates opponents to the extent where they leave the field feeling like Fernando Torres. That solidity and backbone is something Chalobah will not have if he returns next season. The transition for Pogba cannot be compared.

Indeed. He lacks the discipline at the moment to be a mainstay in their pivot. But I would say that alongside a dominant defensive midfielder (like when they had Gilberto Silva) it wouldn't be such a problem. I wouldn't complain if we got Benat, especially if we get someone like Mourinho in who could take his game to the next level. But at the moment I think his lack of discipline let's him down. Illarramendi has appeared for Spain in all youth levels IIRC. I wouldn't be surprised to see him called up, but then again, I wouldn't be surprised if he isn't! Such a good midfield they have. Yeah, tactical similarities not their styles. I agree, it makes discussing potential transfers a bit pointless at the moment, but I guess there is no harm in starting up conversation early By the way, stop being so selfish with all these quality Spanish midfielders

Yes. Was initially following them since the turn of the year to watch more of Griezmann but Illarramendi really caught the eye, among other players. He's robust in the tackle, tactically he is excellent (where I think Benat falls short). Benat reminds me of Wilshere in the sense that he likes to get forward when the opportunity arises, and also isn't afraid to get stuck in. But as much as he likes to get stuck in, the game can pass him by against better opponents. Illarramendi might not have Benat's passing range, or be as risky as him, but the way he moves reminds me so much of Alonso. He can ping balls across the pitch like there's no tomorrow.

Would prefer Illarramendi over Benat. The more complete player.

Sometimes when you have a different opinion people have to label you a 'hater' because they've convinced themselves that that is the only possible explanation.

Loan for how long? It's not like Cavani is an old man (25/26 IIRC), so he would likely be the undisputed no.1 for some time. Why would Lukaku want to be in and out of the team, or on loan for a long period.

The thing is; what happens to Lukaku if Cavani comes in?

IMO he's very much flavour of the month. He had two stand out performances vs. Barca and United, but has been fairly average when he's played in the league. Marquinhos has been consistently good in Serie A, one of the best in the league. For me he's better at the moment, both are supremely talented though.

Of course

Super Cahill

All the hype is around Varane at the moment but Marquinhos is the best U20 CB in world football. I don't think his style would complement Luiz though, both are similar in the sense that their main strength is coming out and intercepting the ball. I would like to see a stronger presence next to Luiz, someone who can dominate in the air (basically Vidic).

+65 GD now. Nice & challenging for Pep next season..

Why!? Don't rate him? Regarding your question, Philipp Lahm.

Been singing his praises for a while now. He's the best ball winning DM in the league at the moment, along with Sandro. But not only that, from playing in a more advanced position earlier in his career he has good technical ability. He's just signed a new contract though, only drawback.

Lisbon should've won by atleast 5 in normal time, they dominated the whole game.

1-1 now. Very tough game if they go through.

Sporting Lisbon are all over Villa but find themselves 1-0 down. They have a lot of big physical players and some nifty little ones to.

The fact that Ajax would bite your hand off for any inflated figure says enough. He's a good player but is easily replaceable for them.

Clyne is a Chelsea fan also just to add.

Great strength there to win the ball back, what was the keeper doing though. Good finish nonetheless.

Great goal. By the way, is anyone else's text centred on here?

4-2-3-1 Courtois Johnson - Kompany - Vert - Cole Dembele - Witsel De Bruyne - Wilshere - Hazard Rooney/Benteke

He wants to play as a striker but has no chance with Stefan Kiessling in such good form this season. The way I see it the only position we would sign him for would be as a striker.

An interesting side that likes to play good football, but are really inconsistent. Hopefully this will be one of their off days. They have some class players though, not to mention the best ball-winning DM in the league by a country mile.

If De Bruyne had some serious pace it would be disgusting the damage he could do down the right. It's just a shame that 'true wingers' are a rapidly dying breed. PS: I miss your old avatar