Following the first few weeks of the summer transfer market, few Calcio fans were left optimistic on the final outcome of the session. The big boys in Italian football are yet to pull any remarkable move to mention, but worst of all, several big names have already packed their bags, leaving the peninsula behind, with Gianluigi Donnarumma, Achraf Hakim (both left towards PSG) and Rodrigo De Paul (Atletico Madrid) being the most notable. So could the bloodshed go on and leave the league depleted from other major stars? Here are the Top 5 players who could still leave Serie A this summer.
5- Mikkel Damsgaard (Sampdoria)
The Dane may not be a household name in Italian football just yet, but those who kept an eye on Sampdoria last season would have surely noticed the emergence of a young bright talent.
The 21-year-old can play in various attacking positions, and was at the heart of his nation’s incredible run in Euro 2020, scoring two brilliant goals in the process, including a stunning freekick against England at Wembley.
The youngster isn’t expected to stay at Sampdoria for too long, and the club took the opportunity to raise its asking price for 40 million euros following his impressive displays with Denmark.
Juventus, Milan, Inter and Roma are all interested in his signature, but once the valuation exceeds a certain figure, the scale would often tip in favor of the richer foreign clubs, with the likes of Real Madrid and Tottenham Hotspur said to be keeping tabs on the player.
Sampdoria signed Mikkel Damsgaard for €7m one year ago, he’s only 21. ??
Sampdoria president Ferrero said yesterday: “Damsgaard is not for sale this summer, I’m sorry – unless there's a big offer that can excite us”.
…not less than €40/45m. #Damsgaard
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 7, 2021
4- Luis Alberto (Lazio)
For one reason or another, it seems that the Spaniard’s adventure in the Italian capital is reaching its end, as he went AWOL on the first few days of Lazio’s pre-season.
The former Liverpool man eventually joined his teammates and was fined for his lateness, but the rumors linking him with Milan are still growing with every passing day.
However, dealing with Biancocelesti president, Claudio Lotito, and his exaggerated valuations is far from being a pleasant task, and the Diavolo could end up losing this battle in favor of a foreign side.
Most media are announcing that #LuisAlberto will return to Rome today, receive his lecture and fine, then move on directly to Auronzo. But they can't figure out why he's skipping the medical. The thing is they can't know, only LazioLand knows. You'll soon find out. ? #Lazio pic.twitter.com/qNw99FXhEI
— LazioLand (@Lazio_Land) July 14, 2021
3- Robin Gosens (Atalanta)
After a marvelous Serie A campaign that saw him cement himself as one of the top Serie A stars – hitting double-digits on the scoring charts – the German put on a man of the match performance against Portugal in Euro 2020.
Juventus have been on his trail for quiet some time now, but they’re unlikely to meet the 40 millions valuation, opening the door of Manchester City to pounce on the situation.
Manchester City are keeping tabs on Atalanta left-back Robin Gosens as Pep Guardiola is eager to strengthen the fullback position. The Germany has scored 9 goals and produced 6 assists in 30 competitive matches for Atalanta this season.#RobinGosens #Atalanta #SerieATIM #Transfer pic.twitter.com/hncf0vprzp
— The Counter Attack (@TheCounterAtta3) March 3, 2021
2- Cristiano Ronaldo (Juventus)
Here’s a complicated scenario. The Portuguese is undoubtedly the biggest name in the sport alongside Lionel Messi, and his presence lifted the appeal of the entire league.
However, after three bittersweet campaigns in Turin, it seems that the love affair between CR7 and the Old Lady has reached its expiry date, and they would both relish the opportunity of an early divorce (his contract expires next summer).
However, until this day, the Bianconeri are yet to be approached with a concrete offer, and the 36-year-old could be set to remain in Serie A after all.
Nonetheless, several things could change between now and the end of the summer, and if a decent opportunity were to present itself (let’s say PSG), the superstar would be expected to jump ship.
In the last few days Cristiano Ronaldo is moving towards the farewell to Juventus, PSG sporting director Leonardo has had conversations with Ronaldo’s agent Jorge Mendes and are ready to make an offer if Cristiano decides to leave. pic.twitter.com/o4z6aRCBKD
— Transfer News (@TransfersLlVE) July 8, 2021
1- Romelu Lukaku (Inter)
Whilst losing Ronaldo would be a big blow for Serie A in terms of marketing, the departure of another star could be even more damaging.
Following his exploits last season, the Belgian is arguably the most terrifying striker on the planet, and is now set to enter the prime of his career.
The former Manchester United man is expected to remain at Inter, as the club decided to counter their financial crisis by sacrificing Hakimi.
However, Lukaku continues to be linked with his former club, Chelsea, who are eager to add a top center forward to their ranks.
Would the Nerazzurri be willing to resist an incredibly tempting offer for their number 9? If not, Serie A would end up losing the man that is groomed to be the poster boy of the league for years to come.
Romelu Lukaku and Tuchel have held positive talks in the last few weeks. Chelsea sees Lukaku has more accessible and easier option. [IG: cfcnewspage]
— Williams ©️ (@CFCNewsReport) July 8, 2021