Memphis on the move: Five destinations for Dutch star Depay
Published:As the dust settles on PSV Eindhoven’s Eredivise title celebrations, all eyes turn to Memphis Depay and the fleet-footed winger’s future.
The prolific Lightbulbs attacker has poached 26 goals across all competitions this term and can expect to have his pick of clubs. Sadly for the Dutch club, their success could lead to a summer exodus, which Coral experts have analysed here.
Marcel Brands, director of the Eindhoven outfit, told press: “The chances are very high that he leaves. If you see what clubs are enquiring about him, they really are the best in Europe.”
With such a prodigious talent set to become available, Coral writers consider which clubs would be the best fit for thrilling Dutch dangerman Depay. Here are our five picks:
Bayern Munich
Depay is 14/1 to depart for the Allianz Arena and work under Pep Guardiola’s wing. The former Barcelona boss’ record with youth would surely be an attractive proposition for the still-developing Dutchman.
Coupled with the chance to work alongside compatriot Arjen Robben, with a view to one day replacing the wily wideman and fellow ageing flank threat Franck Ribery, setting up camp in Munich would be a natural choice.
Already blistering in attack, adding Depay to the mix could be a masterstroke for Bayern, as they continue to break records. Going forward, an attacking trio of him, Mario Gotze and Thomas Muller looks mouthwatering.
PSG
According to PSV, the Parisians have previously thrown their hat into the ring for predator Depay’s services, and could return for a second shot at the speedster this summer.
Rumours are rife that Uruguay frontman Edinson Cavani could escape from being shunted out wide at the Parc des Princes, while Argentina international Ezequiel Lavezzi is also being linked with an exit, leaving plenty of space for a new superstar.
PSG have lofty ambitions, and capturing one of Europe’s most exciting youngsters would only heighten their Champions League hopes. So, punters can back Depay at an excellent 8/1 to plump for Paris and add more direct threat to the French capital club’s forward line.
Liverpool
Brendan Rodgers’ Reds have reportedly had rampant Depay on their radar for some time, and are 3/1 to beat rivals Manchester United in the race for his signature.
Much would likely depend on the Anfield outfit’s ability to deliver a top four spot, but boss Rodger’s record at developing potential could prove a convincing factor.
Should Depay arrive on Merseyside, he would form part of pacey and exuberant attack alongside options Raheem Sterling, Jordan Ibe, Philippe Coutinho and Daniel Sturridge. The speed and skill combinations available from that selection would surely see Liverpool become title contenders.
Manchester United
The Red Devils are perhaps the most obvious choice, and are understandably odds-on chances at 2/5 to land the nippy Netherlands international.
Louis van Gaal could prove a crucial component in capturing his former Clockwork Orange charge, having been the coach that delivered Depay his international debut.
Intelligent and hard-working Depay fits the mould of an ideal Old Trafford attacker, with an abundance of tricks, technique, blistering pace and an eye for goal all in his locker.
Already well adapted to Van Gaal’s philosophy and demands, the talented 21-year-old would surely relish linking up with apparent mentor Robin van Persie, and has also shown promise in his link-up play with Dutch teammate Daley Blind.
The only potential downfall of pulling on Manchester red for Depay, is that the Mancunians are already well-stocked in wide areas.
Tottenham
Spurs are clearly outsiders at 33/1 to lure Depay to White Hart Lane, but would perhaps offer the best guarantee of first-team football.
Mauricio Pochettino’s men could use further forward flair, and fans of the north London club would almost certainly worship the wingman’s skill-set and work-rate.
With Depay’s potential challengers for a first team slot the inconsistent crew of Nacer Chadli, Erik Lamela and Andros Townsend, the PSV academy product would provide Tottenham with a dangerous new dimension.