With six weeks of the Premier League season remaining, it is not that straightforward to predict where clubs will best need reinforcements this summer.
Furthermore, at this stage, it’s not 100 per cent certain which sides will be in Europe nor, indeed, the top flight at all – both scenarios which ultimately impact on budgets.
However, whether realistic or otherwise, the speculation rarely subsides as fans the world over dream of who may be donning their club’s jersey next season.
Indeed, the SBOTOP Premier League betting odds will likely change a few times between the final day of 2023-24 and the opening weekend of 2024-25 as each club has departures and arrivals.
For now, the transfer stories will continue apace with some appearing to have more credence than others.
Let’s start with Brighton, arguably the team of the season last term and a club which continues to more than hold its own against the established heavyweights, despite seemingly losing its best players and staff on an annual basis.
The latest name linked with a departure from the south coast this summer is impressive young manager Roberto de Zerbi.
When I read over Easter weekend that he was to sit down and talk with club owner Tony Bloom about his future, it was an indication to me that the Italian may have his eyes on a change of scene this summer: that his future could lie elsewhere if Brighton are unable to match his lofty ambitions.
That prompted the question of whether Bloom will stick or twist in terms of spending in an attempt to continue their progression.
Perhaps I picked up the wrong signals, though, as there are reports which suggest De Zerbi wants to carry on in the role, assuming he can assurances about keeping hold of key men and attracting his own targets.
De Zerbi, always one to wear his heart on his sleeve, has made clear on several occasions his feelings about the impact that the demands of playing in the Europa League have had on his squad.
In addition, to losing key men, his side have had more injuries than most which leaves them, effectively, with little to play for (they still retain outside chance of qualifying for Europe) with seven league matches remaining.
That they are safe in midtable and within touching distance of rivals who are in a different sphere financially, is success in itself.
But the fact Bloom (I think) and De Zerbi both appear ambitious men, may mean they continue their partnership and, with suitable investment, take Brighton to even greater heights.
The return of the likes of Karum Mitoma, Solly March and Ewan Ferguson, coupled with key acquisitions, would only enhance the playing squad at a club which has just announced record-breaking profits which it believes will allow more significant progress on the pitch.
Watch out for a possible bid for Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, even if Leicester City, as expected, bounce back to the Premier League at the first time of asking.
Another club which has enjoyed Premier League highlights against the odds is Brentford.
Again on a limited budget, Thomas Frank has worked wonders since taking charge of the Bees in 2018.
Last season, the west Londoners emphatically answered any questions about second season syndrome with an inaugural top-half finish, never dropping below 11th place in the table to successfully build on a 13th place finish in its maiden campaign.
While the side won’t be able to manage a repeat of ninth spot this time, Brentford should soon be mathematically clear of getting dragged into a relegation battle which is another fine achievement.
In the past week, the side has drawn with Man Utd, Brighton and Aston Villa – twice fighting back from deficits to show real character, netting three goals in just nine minutes at Villa Park, courtesy of Mathias Jorgensen, Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa.
Their determination to do well was evident at the end of Saturday’s 3-3 draw when there appeared to be a fairly heated exchange between Ivan Toney and Nathan Collins.
Tensions between the two players briefly flared with Toney appearing to be upset about Collins’ decision not to pass him the ball.
When asked about the incident, Frank put it down to ‘two very competitive people that want to win a match’.
Here are players playing for a manager who, like De Zerbi, has had to deal with a number of absences for long spells this season, including Rico Henry and, more recently, central defender Ben Mee.
To get key players back next term, alongside strengthening in key areas, could see them continue their undoubted progression.
The club is reportedly interested in signing Bryan Zaragoza from Granada.
It would be second time lucky as Bayern Munich reached an agreement for his signature in January.
He hasn’t been used by the German giants, who loaned him back to the Spanish side until the end of the season, and with the Bavarians set for a new coach this summer, there may be a chance the Bees can still get their man.
Another player linked is Arsenal’s 24 year-old English striker Eddie Nketiah, although that may depend on whether they cash out on England hopeful Ivan Toney.
They may not be operating on the budgets of some of their fellow sides, but Brighton and Brentford are examples of well-run clubs who continue to establish themselves in England’s top flight.
Expect them to get it right again against the odds this summer.
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