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#3 Kai Havertz | Chelsea
Kai Havertz excelled for Chelsea towards the end of the 2020-21 season in an unfamiliar role. The German, who predominantly played as a winger for Bayer Leverkusen and Germany, was deployed as a false 9 by Tomas Tuchel.
The move paid rich dividends, as Havertz managed five goals and six assists in the 21 matches he played behind the forward line. The most significant of these strikes was his winner against Manchester City in the Champions League final.
Chelsea are looking to sign Romelu Lukaku this summer as an out-and-out striker. If the move goes through, Havertz could return to his position as a left winger. Alternatively, he could also be deployed as a second striker or from midfield to feed Lukaku.
Nevertheless, the 22-year-old could excel wherever he plays on the pitch, as he looks much more at home at Stamford Bridge heading into the new campaign.
#2 Jesse Lingard | Manchester United
Jesse Lingard's return to form has been absolutely phenomenal. Considered surplus to requirements at Manchester United, the 28-year-old moved to West Ham in January 2021. Lingard made an instant impact and helped the Hammers secure European football with some scintillating performances.
The Englishman made 16 appearances for David Moyes's side, netting nine goals and providing five assists. Most of those goals came when Lingard played just behind the attackers in an attacking midfield role. He is unlikely to be able to play there for United, though, due to the presence of a certain Bruno Fernandes, which could limit his creativity.
However, Lingard also played as a second striker and left winger for West Ham in six matches last season, managing three goals and an assist to prove his versatility. With Marcus Rashford injured for at least a couple of months due to surgery, United might use Lingard on the left wing to partner Edinson Cavani and Jadon Sancho.
Alternatively, he could also prove to be an able backup in that position if the Red Devils choose to start Anthony Martial or Mason Greenwood.
#1 Jack Grealish | Manchester City
After an emotional English summer, Jack Grealish has finally completed a move to Manchester City. In the process, he has also become the most expensive Englishman in the history of the game.
Grealish joins the English champions after a stellar Euro 2020 showing. The former Aston Villa winger has arrived at a stacked City front six that already includes Kevin de Bruyne, Phil Foden, Raheem Sterling and Riyad Mahrez.
With Pep Guardiola at the helm, almost every player is seemingly required to be able to play in multiple positions.
The Spaniard knows he's getting an immensely talented player in Grealish. While the Englishman has largely played on the left wing throughout his career, it won't be surprising to see Guardiola use him as a false 9 this season.
It was no wonder that City prioritised Grealish's signing after Tottenham Hotspur are unlikely to let go Harry Kane. Jack Grealish is only 25, despite his impressive technical ability. Under Guardiola, he could not only play in multiple positions but also excel doing so.
