Although unproven at the highest level of French football, Kaba’s performances over the past season and clear interpretation of the No. 6 role indicate that he has already outgrown Ligue 2. Physically dominant in the middle of the pitch, he covers a lot of ground, intercepts efficiently (2.2 interceptions per 90 minutes) and is not afraid of contact (8-plus duels won per 90 minutes.)
The Frenchman is also delightfully tidy on the ball and can progress out of crowded areas without losing possession. He can also switch the direction of play with either foot and keeps his head up to feed teammates with line-breaking passes. Unfussy, and with a magnificent work ethic, Kaba provides a reliable presence deep in midfield and is ready to make the step up.
Arthur Vermeeren, 18, CM, Royal Antwerp, €17m
One of the revelations of the year in Belgian football, the 18-year-old marked his debut season at senior level by becoming an essential part of Antwerp’s league-winning side. Habitually deployed as a defensive midfielder in a double pivot, he exudes confidence beyond his years and is excellent at recovering the ball, getting around the pitch and providing an outlet for passing.
Always active, with a high level of consistency and good passing range of his own, the Belgium U19 international is certain to be on the shortlist of most European giants. Although another season or two in Belgium wouldn’t hurt the teenager’s development, he is certainly one to watch.
Alan Varela, 22, DM, Boca Juniors, €9m
A product of the prestigious Boca Juniors academy, Varela has only recently broken into the first team but has made a big impression. At 5-foot-8, he does not have the towering physical presence of some players in the defensive midfield role, but his stamina, awareness and positioning allow him to get the best of opponents with guile instead of power.
He’s actually a committed tackler too, which helps, and is comfortable on the ball, taking his time to pick the right pass. Not fancy with his distribution, he keeps possession well and makes sure things are ticking over in midfield without being overly elaborate. If teams are looking for an aggressive and industrious midfielder with a touch of finesse, they could do a lot worse.
Keito Nakamura, 22, AM, LASK, €8m
The Japan winger has attracted plenty of interest on the back of a superb season in Austria with LASK. He scored his first goal in his second senior appearance for the national team last month, and his ability to finish as well as create (14 goals, seven assists for LASK last season) makes for a modern, fairly complete wide playmaker.
Although not the quickest, Nakamura’s off-the-ball movement sees him make timely runs into the box for chances, which he’ll usually finish off calmly. Technically gifted and blessed with a subtle touch, he carries the ball forward well and is excellent at finding a teammate with a pass in behind the defensive line.
Gianluca Prestianni, 17, FW, Velez Sarsfield, €5m
With Julian Alvarez (Man City) and Julio Enciso (Brighton) proving that making a direct leap from the South American leagues to the Premier League is possible, the Velez Sarsfield winger represents another exciting prospect.
Although still six months from his 18th birthday (which excludes a move overseas this summer, although a deal can still be agreed), Prestianni’s explosive acceleration in wide areas, high-speed dribbling and quick body movement all score highly on the checklist of attributes desired by top European clubs.
