La Liga is often rich with players that perhaps the common football fan hasn’t heard of but could make a massive impact in the Premier League should they choose to move. I’m picking players which some of you may not have heard of because, as with the case of Michu, it’s important for us and clubs to look beyond the big three Spanish sides. This enables managers to find players that will benefit their club without having to break the bank to get them. The players I’m going to talk about have been very good this season for their respective clubs and have consistently churned out impressive performances.
1. Antonio Amaya – The big Real Betis centre half has put in some performances that his side don’t deserve at the moment. He has been one of a few shining lights in a side that currently occupies one of the three places of the relegation zones. If Real Betis are to be relegated, which seems very unlikely, then whoever signs him will pick up a bargain. The 30-year-old’s contract runs out at the end of this season so, unless Betis tie him down, teams will be able to pick him up cheaply or they can get him on a free in the summer. Even more of a bargain.
2. Cani – The 32-year-old has spent quite a number of years at his current club; if he completes this season then it will be eight years. However, the player is yet to sign a new contract at Villarreal and his eighth season could well be his last. Despite his age, he’s still proving to be a nuisance for defenders. Twi goals and five assists in 12 appearances are good stats to look at and make a decision on whether he’s good enough. Think of Tomas Rosicky and then you’ll gain a better understanding.
3. Carlos Martinez – If you ever wanted to sign a right back who is incredibly consistent but also cheap, then Carlos Martinez is perfect. Finding a good right back these days is very hard because they’re either expensive or not good enough. However, there are some who reside in the middle and Martinez is one of those players. Teams who already have a quality right back usually don’t have that suitable back up. Manchester United, for example, have Rafael but no other out-and-out right back. Carlos Martinez could solve that problem.
4. Javi Lopez – Another right back who is very similar to Carlos Martinezp; very good at what he does best but never particularly standing out from the rest. Again, a cheap option, but he would be a very good addition to any team that take the plunge. One of the top performers in the La Liga this season according to www.whoscored.com.
5. Pedro Leon – Some of you Real Madrid fans among us may remember this name because he has only just left the Spanish giants this summer to join Getafe, where he had spent two years on loan. Although he didn’t feature regularly for Getafe in his first season on loan, as he’s grown as a player he has earned more and more appearances and is now one of the first players to be named on the team sheet. Three goals and three assists so far this season show that Getafe’s faith in him is paying off. He is a winger by trait but can play attacking midfield if needs be. A smart signing for anyone who decides to invest.