3. Alexander Kokorin-Dynamo Moscow
Looking for an inexpensive option at striker for next season? Your club could do a lot worse than plucking Kokorin from the Russian Premier League. The oft-rumored Arsenal target could do a job for a number of Premier League teams.
Kokorin is a true centre forward that does his best work inside the six-yard box. He’s scored four goals in eight matches for his club this season so he’s shown the type of production you look for in a number nine. The only questions regarding the young Russian would be how he would adjust to life in England the competition if its top-flight league.
I’m fairly optimistic that his game would translate reasonably well to the Premier League. I don’t think he has star potential, but I think he can do a job as a starter for a mid-table club or a substitute for a top-four side. What I like most about him is his effort level out on the pitch. He isn’t necessarily the most athletic player, but he works his socks off to win the ball back when his team loses possession. At times it looks a little awkward, seeing the target man rumbling after opposing players, but it’s an effort that anyone can appreciate.
If he doesn’t move to Arsenal, then I think he’s more likely to remain outside the Premier League though. It will be interesting to see the direction his career takes over the next several seasons. He’s undoubtedly one to watch as the January transfer window approaches.
Next: Ever Banega