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#3 Youcef Atal | Nice
Youcef Atal has quietly made a name for himself as one of the most exciting defenders in world football, as he continues to impress in Ligue 1 for Nice. Known for his electric pace, dribbling ability and crossing, the 24-year-old has all the tools required to become a top-class player in the coming months.
Arsenal have been linked with the Algerian in the past, but a move never came to fruition. If the Gunners decide to make a move for him this summer, they are unlikely to have a free run at him, with Paris Saint-Germain reportedly keeping tabs on him.
Arsenal loanee William Saliba could also have a part to play in the transfer, with the French youngster spending the second half of the 2020-21 season on loan at the Ligue 1 club.
#2 Max Aarons | Norwich City
Max Aarons impressed in the Premier League last season, but Norwich City failed to avoid the drop despite showing flashes of their brilliance in the top-flight. The Canaries took the Championship by storm in the 2020-21 season and secured promotion immediately, with Aarons playing a starring role under Daniel Farke.
Blessed with blistering pace, Aarons has rubbed shoulders with some of the best attackers in England over the past two seasons and come out on top a handful of times. The 21-year-old has also gained plaudits for his crossing ability and has proved to be one of the most exciting young defenders in the country.
Aarons is set to play in the Premier League next season, but it remains to be seen whether that will be for Norwich City or some other club.
#1 Tariq Lamptey | Brighton & Hove Albion
Tariq Lamptey showed promise after making his senior debut at Chelsea, but the diminutive Englishman secured a move to Brighton to get more game time under his belt. Before suffering a long-term injury, the 20-year-old was one of the most exciting players to watch in the Premier League, as he impressed with his pace, dribbling ability and crosses.
Lamptey was tipped to achieve big things when he burst onto the scene at Chelsea, so Arsenal can do much worse than pay a substantial fee to secure his signature. Bayern Munich kept tabs on him last summer, but the Bavarians decided to pursue a cut-price deal for Bouna Sarr instead.
Lamptey is some player to watch in full swing and is capable of dominating the right flank despite his stature. Arsenal have been credited with an interest, but it remains to be seen if the Gunners hierarchy will sanction a big-money move for him this summer.
