Luis Suarez has been struggling for form for quite sometime now for Barcelona. And although Valverde has stuck with the Uruguayan, Suarez has been forced to operate in a more withdrawn left-sided role with Messi reprising his false 9 role this season. Carrying injuries, playing non-stop for the past decade has taken a toll on Suarez’s body and he has lost some of his electric burst of pace which has dazzled many defences across Europe. Even if Suarez manages to recover his form, Barca know that at almost 31, he doesn’t have many seasons at the top left anymore.
Let’s take a look at some of the possible stars who could be Luis Suarez’s long term successor.
Antoine Griezmann
Griezmann almost left Atletico this summer to Manchester United but Atletico’s transfer ban proved to be a blessing in disguise as the Frenchman didn’t want to leave with Atletico unable to sign a replacement. This most probably is his last season at Atletico but Barcelona will have a major transfer tussle with other top European clubs if they wish to sign him.
Paulo Dybala
Another superstar who can play in various positions across the front three and also is Lionel Messi’s compatriot in the Argentinian national team. Juventus’s demands will be high and also Messi and Dybala have so far not shown any chemistry while playing for Argentina. Dybala likes to occupy the same space which Messi likes to operate in, Valverede will probably wait till the World Cup to see how Jorge Sampaoli will solve the problem for Argentina and then take a decision.
Anthony Martial
Although not the finished article as of now, Martial has all the attributes to become a world beater. Jose Mourinho’s tactics at Manchester United probably don’t suit him as much but United will still refuse to let go of him easily. Although, it would be easier for Barcelona to bring him to Camp Nou if Griezmann goes to Old Trafford.
Andrea Belotti
Probably the cheapest option of the lot, Belotti has been banging in the goals for Torino. Set to go to the world cup as Italy’s leading striker at 23, a good tournament will certainly hike up his transfer price. He has the ability to drop deep and linkup play and his workrate will certainly impress Valverde.
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