Top5 - Number 5: Domenico Criscito (Zenit)

Possibly a long-shot considering he is 26-years-old and only 1 year into his 5-year deal at Russian money-bags Zenit St Petersburg, but his talent is definitely clear for all to see. He is a more robust player than Ashley Cole and loves to lunge into challenges to strip oncoming opponents of possession, but he is all too happy to drive forward and chip in with the goals when needed.

Criscito was involved with the Genoa youth academy when Juventus bought 50% of his contract in a co-ownership deal and after 153 games in a Genoa shirt, and 8 for the Juventus first team, he was snapped up by Zenit and given a sense of security with a 5-year deal after a reported €15m transfer fee was agreed by all parties. He also had the experience in an international stage with 20 appearances in the Italy senior side and his name has finally started to come to light because of the talent he has.

He can also be used at centre-back if needed and can cover at left-midfield, something which could be hugely beneficial if he were to join the Blues and link up with Ryan Bertrand.

NEXT